On September 24, 2012, a landslide injured four tourists and caused the trail to be shut down for repairs. Now, after over a decade-long refurbishment, the first section has been reopened for a summer preview until September 30.
Once renovated, the entire 2,950-foot walkway will open by July 2024.
In 2012, a landslide incident resulted in injuries to four tourists and prompted the closure of the trail for necessary repairs. Now, following more than ten years of extensive restoration efforts, the initial segment of the pathway has been unveiled for a limited summer preview, running until September 30.
The comprehensive revitalization is set to conclude with the complete 2,950-foot walkway ready for public access by July 2024.
Renowned as the world’s most enchanting stroll, Italy’s Via dell’Amore is a charming pathway that offers breathtaking views of the sea. This picturesque trail is nestled within the approximately 121-kilometre network of paths that meander through the five quaint villages constituting Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
According to the report, in order to address the issue of over-tourism in a region that is among the most frequented in one of the world’s top tourist destinations, access is now limited to guided tours. This measure aims to safeguard the scenic beauty of the area for generations to come.
Certainly, the decision to limit access to Italy’s Via dell’Amore with guided tours is part of a broader effort to address the challenges posed by over-tourism in the Cinque Terre region. Cinque Terre, which translates to “Five Lands,” is a cluster of five charming coastal villages along the Italian Riviera: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These villages are known for their colourful buildings, stunning sea views, and picturesque landscapes, making them incredibly popular tourist destinations.
The Via dell’Amore, or “Path of Love,” is a scenic walking trail that connects the villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola. It has gained fame as a romantic pathway due to its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the charming atmosphere it provides for couples and visitors.
However, the popularity of the Cinque Terre region has led to concerns about over-tourism, including environmental degradation, damage to infrastructure, and the impact on the local communities. The closure of the Via dell’Amore after the 2012 landslide served as a catalyst for reevaluating the management of tourism in the area.
In response, local authorities and UNESCO took measures to preserve the unique beauty and cultural heritage of Cinque Terre. One of these measures is the implementation of guided tours for the reopened section of the Via dell’Amore. These guided tours aim to control the number of visitors, reduce foot traffic, and minimize the ecological footprint on the delicate terrain.
The new access restrictions mean that visitors can only explore the trail as part of an organized guided tour. This approach not only ensures a more controlled flow of tourists but also offers an educational and informative experience for participants. It allows guides to share insights about the history, culture, and natural environment of the region while ensuring that visitors adhere to responsible tourism practices.
The phased approach to reopening the Via dell’Amore is also indicative of the careful planning and consideration involved in managing tourism in this iconic region. By reopening sections of the trail incrementally, authorities can monitor the impact and make adjustments if needed before the entire trail is fully accessible.
In essence, the decision to limit access to the Via dell’Amore through guided tours reflects a commitment to sustainable tourism that balances the preservation of the region’s beauty with the desire to share it with visitors. It underscores the importance of maintaining the delicate balance between tourism, environmental conservation, and the well-being of local communities.