The Sentiero dell'Infinito, designated AVG5T, is one of the most scenic hiking trails in Liguria. Connecting Riomaggiore to Portovenere, it winds through the Cinque Terre National Park along a route that alternates between terraced vineyards, Mediterranean scrub, and forests, offering a completely different perspective from the famous coastal trails.
With a length of about 12 kilometers and an average hiking time of between five and six hours, this is an ideal hike for those who want to experience the most authentic side of the Cinque Terre. The trail requires a good level of fitness, but offers continuous views of the Gulf of La Spezia and the Ligurian coast.
What Is the AVG5T Trail?
The AVG5T, known as the Sentiero dell'Infinito, is a hiking trail that connects Riomaggiore to Portovenere along the ridge overlooking the eastern coast of the Cinque Terre. It is part of the Cinque Terre National Park trail network and takes hikers through some of the area’s most distinctive landscapes, away from the crowds of tourists on the coastal trails.
The name “Sentiero dell'Infinito” evokes the sweeping panoramas that accompany much of the hike, with views stretching from the Ligurian Sea to the terraced hills shaped over the centuries by human labor.
Route Characteristics
The route is about 12 kilometers long and has an elevation gain of about 600 meters. The average hiking time is between five and six hours, not including breaks.
From a hiking perspective, it is classified as difficulty level E (Hiking). It does not require mountaineering skills, but some sections feature uneven terrain and significant slopes, both uphill and downhill. For this reason, it is recommended for those who are accustomed to walking on natural trails and are reasonably fit.
The landscape along the way
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Sentiero dell'Infinito is the ever-changing landscape. The trail winds through forests, Mediterranean scrub, and ancient terraced vineyards, a testament to the agricultural tradition that has shaped the Cinque Terre region.
Along the way, you’ll come across several scenic viewpoints and picturesque towns, including the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Montenero, Colle del Telegrafo, the village of Campiglia, and the Monte Muzzerone area, before the final descent toward Portovenere.
Walking along the Path of Infinity means traversing a landscape shaped over the centuries, where nature and human labor coexist in perfect harmony.
How to Prepare
Although classified as a hiking trail, the route requires a good level of physical fitness. Hiking boots with deep-treaded soles are strongly recommended, as are an adequate supply of water and clothing appropriate for the season.
Hiking poles can be particularly useful on the steepest sections, especially during the long descent toward Portovenere.
Before setting out, it is always a good idea to check the trail status on the official website of the Cinque Terre National Park, as weather conditions or maintenance work may result in temporary closures.
If you hike the Sentiero dell'Infinito in the early morning, you'll enjoy more pleasant temperatures and ideal light for admiring the sea and the terraces. Plus, during the warmer months, you'll avoid the middle of the day, when the sun can make the hike more challenging.