Few people know it, but Montaretto sits at the heart of one of Italy's most spectacular and demanding wine-producing territories. The Cinque Terre and Colline di Levanto Wine Road winds through vineyards clinging to vertiginous slopes, accessible only on foot, where the dedication of local wine growers is measured in effort, passion and love for the land.

The dry-stone terraces (muretti a secco) that shape the Ligurian hillsides are recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Built by hand over centuries, they support vineyards climbing from 50 to 500 metres above sea level, in one of the most scenic wine landscapes in Europe.

Many vineyards can only be reached on foot, at gradients that make any mechanisation impossible. Every bunch is harvested by hand, often carried on the shoulders along steep paths. Extraordinary work that is reflected in the unique character of the wines produced.

The three native white grape varieties at the heart of this territory are:

— Bosco — the most widespread, delicate and floral, it forms the backbone of the Cinque Terre DOC — Vermentino — aromatic and structured, bringing freshness and complexity — Albarola — the rarest, adding elegance and fragrance to the blend

Blended in varying proportions according to local regulations, they produce the Cinque Terre DOC — a dry, mineral and savoury white wine with a characteristic almond finish — and the legendary Sciacchetrà, a passito made from sun-dried grapes: sweet, amber-coloured and produced in very limited quantities.

The area also produces fine red wines from Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo and Canaiolo grapes — less well known, but equally rewarding.

The Cinque Terre and Colline di Levanto Wine Road is a mapped itinerary connecting producers, wineries and tasting venues from Montaretto all the way to Riomaggiore. It is more than a food and wine route — it is an invitation to slow down, to walk among the vines, to meet the producers and understand the story of these extraordinary yet fragile landscapes.

The main stops begin right around Montaretto and Bonassola, heading up towards Levanto and then along the coast to the Cinque Terre.

Along the route you can:

— Visit wineries and join guided tastings — Buy wines directly from the producers — Take guided tours through the terraced vineyards — Take part in the harvest (September–October) — Discover traditional recipes paired with local wines

— Spring (April–June) — the vineyards are in bloom and the paths are scented with broom — Summer (July–August) — intense heat but spectacular sunsets among the vines — Harvest (September–October) — the most exciting time, with the vineyards in full activity — Autumn (October–November) — the foliage colours on the terraces are extraordinary

La Notte sull'Isola sits at the heart of this wine-producing territory. From our apartment you can reach the first vineyards on foot in just a few minutes, follow the CAI trails that wind through the vines, and visit local wineries without ever getting in the car.

A stay in Montaretto is the best way to experience the Wine Road not as a tourist but as a guest — slowly, authentically, one glass at a time.

The Cinque Terre are among the most photographed places in Italy — and among the most crowded. Anyone looking for a swim in crystal-clear water without queues, packed sunbeds and resort prices already knows the answer: move a few kilometres along the coast. Between Bonassola and Framura, just minutes from Montaretto, you'll find some of the most beautiful and unspoilt waters in all of Liguria.

Bonassola is the closest beach to Montaretto, reachable in 25 minutes on foot or by the summer bus (June–September). A sheltered bay with calm, clear waters, ideal for families and confident swimmers alike.

— Pebble beach with equipped beach clubs

— Kayak, canoe and pedalo hire

— Bars and restaurants on the seafront

— Calm waters, perfect for children

— Parking available

How to get there: on foot via Trail #663 (25 min) or by bus from Montaretto (June–September).

Framura is the perfect destination for those wanting to escape the crowds. Its small pebble beaches and rocky coves can be reached on foot from Montaretto in around 35 minutes along the Sentiero Verde Azzurro. Crystal-clear waters, rocky seabeds teeming with fish — ideal for snorkelling.

— Five medieval hamlets connected by trails

— Free and unspoilt beaches

— Rocky seabeds perfect for snorkelling

— Never crowded, even in August

— Access via the Maremonti cycle path

How to get there: on foot via the Sentiero Verde Azzurro (35 min) or by car (10 min).

Cala Scà is the hidden gem of the area. A small inlet nestled between red rocks and maritime pines, with an emerald sea of rare beauty. No beach clubs, no sunbeds — just rocks, water and silence.

— 20-minute walk from Montaretto

— Emerald sea, rocky seabed

— Perfect for snorkelling and diving

— Almost always deserted, even in summer

— Steeped in history — Turkish pirates landed here in 1560

How to get there: via Trail #661C, a turn-off from the Sentiero Verde Azzurro (20 min on foot).

⚠️ Hiking boots required — the final stretch is over bare rock.

Punta Marmi is an ancient marble quarry overlooking the sea, reachable in around 30 minutes from Montaretto. Its seabed is among the richest in the area — submerged rocks, colourful fish and exceptionally clear water. One of the favourite spots among local divers.

— Outstanding rocky seabed for snorkelling

— Clear, deep waters

— Panoramic views over the Gulf of Genoa

— Wild and authentic surroundings

— Adjacent to the Rock of the Good Dragon, Panéa

How to get there: from Framura, follow Via Luigi Duina from the pier (30 min on foot).

Just 15 minutes by car from Montaretto, Levanto offers the longest and best-equipped beach in the area. Fine sand, calm waters and full facilities — perfect for a full day at the sea with children.

— 800-metre sandy beach

— Beach clubs and free stretches of beach

— Surfing, kayaking and water sports

— Medieval town centre just steps away

— Excellent dining along the seafront

How to get there: by car (15 min), by train from Bonassola (5 min) or by cycle path.

The golden rule for guests staying in Montaretto is simple: go to the beach early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Between 10 and 16 in August, even the most secluded coves fill up. At 8 in the morning you'll have Cala Scà all to yourself — and you'll remember it for the rest of your life.

— Hiking boots to reach the coves

— Mask and snorkel

— Water and snacks — no bars at the wild coves

— High-factor sun cream

— A bag for your rubbish — let's keep our sea clean