Self-Guided Cinque Terre in the Rain | A Guide's Journal

A guide's journal, part 2 of 3

Day Two arrived with thunder rumbling across the Ligurian coast and lightning illuminating the morning sky. The path between Monterosso and Levanto stood closed, and this is precisely when self-guided walking reveals its true character. Instead of disappointment, we felt that spark of independence – time to make our own decisions. 

We opened the Ramble Worldwide app and discovered the notes about alternative routes. You can catch a train to Levanto and continue the walk from there. Simple as that. No waiting for group consensus, no complicated reorganisation. We hopped on the next train, the rain hammering against the windows, and arrived in Levanto ready to see what the day would bring.

The weather was still terrible, but instead of following the planned route we decided to follow the signs to Bonassola. What unfolded was completely unexpected – a walk along the seafront through a tunnel that protected us from the rain. The tunnel itself became part of the experience, with breaks every so often revealing expansive sea views. Even in a downpour, the Ligurian coast managed to be worth it. 

Be prepared for all eventualities – the weather can completely determine how your day's walking will go. This is where self-guided walking requires an element of independence and problem-solving, and honestly, that's what makes it rewarding. Luckily the app and all the information provided gives you many alternatives to get from A to B if walking the planned route simply isn't possible.

Crucially, the agent in destination is available 24/7 should you need guidance. You're independent, but never alone. This balance defines self-guided walking with Ramble Worldwide – enough freedom to feel like a genuine adventure, enough support to walk with confidence whatever the weather brings. 

The walk took us into the small town of Bonassola, damp but satisfied with our morning's improvisation. We were looking for somewhere to wait out the rain before continuing to our hotel for the night, and this is when self-guided walking delivered one of those moments you couldn't have planned.

The day before a walk, take some time to look at your options and decide which is best. Many walks on the Cinque Terre give you the choice between harder, more challenging routes or shorter alternatives. The weather, your energy levels, what you're hoping to see – these all factor into decisions that feel natural when you're making them yourself. This daily ritual of planning becomes part of the pleasure, not a burden.