We will be staying two nights in Manarola in August and would like to stay longer but are unable to get another night at the same hotel. We are debating whether or not to extend our stay in the Cinque Terre area by moving to a b&b in Vernazza (La Mala) or move further afield to Camogli (Cenobio dei Dogi)? Will we have had our fill of the Cinque Terre in two days? We are heading south to Tuscany after this part of the trip.
Any input would be appreciated as we just can't decide!

You might like to experience the Italian Riviera without all the foreign tourists. If you are keen hikers, than Camogli is a good choice, and you can check Tripadvisor for additional hotel choices. But if your trip isn't all about hiking, you might enjoy someplace even less known to foreigners, like lovely Moneglia or Chiavari (best food).

Personally, in August, I might get away from the beach completely and head up into the hills for something very different. Even Sarzana would be a real change of pace. I just came across this b&b. It has air conditioning:

http://www.chamomileandcoffee.com/index_EN.htm

But you could go even further up in the mountains. Are you picking up a car? If so, you can get one in Rapallo (or La Spezia).

I wouldn't let your decision be governed by the idea of "backtracking." If you want to pick a town north, go ahead. It's not adding that much to your trip.

Thanks Zeppole for a new perspective. After three nights in Manarola we had hoped to rent a car however that weekend is Ferragosto and the rental car agencies in Rapallo and LaSpezia are closed for the holiday. We would need to go as far as Pisa (airport location) to get the car, which works if we are ready to head south, but we're feeling that two nights is too short along the coast. The trip is really for R&R and enjoying the sights/ atmosphere/ food /wine... not so much about hiking.
I will look into Moneglia or Chiavari... also on the train line I hope!

We are staying at Villa Rosmarino in Camogli for two nights (might add on a third if I can) at the end of May. http://www.villarosmarino.com/index_en.html

We spent three nights in Manarola last spring at La Torreta and loved it. http://www.torrettas.com/

macgodmom, we are booked to stay two nights at La Torreta but can not reserve a third night, so the question we are trying to decide is: do we move on to Vernazza for 1-2 more nights or go furthur to Camogli for 2 nights? Since you have stayed in Manarola at La Torreta what would you suggest? Would two nights have been enough for you? Would you have switched to a room in Vernazza in order to have more time?

Probably would move onto Camogli but depends on when you are getting in and how much hiking you want to do. We arrived in late afternoon and then had two full days and left in the morning of the third day bound for Venice. We loved La Torreta--Gabriel is a wonderful host. We had breakfast served in our room every morning and then sat out with other guests at night for drinks and appetizers. Be sure to go to Trattoria Billie's for dinner and walk along the path that circles the town. I have such wonderful memories of our time there. Vernazza was packed the day we hiked there, but I am sure it gets quieter at night. I am looking forward to spending a little time further up the coast in Camogli. You should check out the Villa Rosmarino website--looks interesting.

Zeppole,
You're be back at it so soon - and distracting me as well
nice digs by the way.

I've never stayed in Villa Rosmarino and it gets very nice reviews, but people need to be aware that it is a significant climb upstairs from the beach and all the restaurants in Camogli or anywhere nearby. The regular bus service ends at 8pm (although sometimes August holiday schedules have later buses), but unless one is willing to spring for a taxi after dinner, the only way to the Villa Rosmarino at night is by public staircase, at least 20 minutes uphill. I enjoy it, but you will break a sweat, no matter what time of year you do it.

terri2x2,

Yes, both Moneglia and Chiavari are on the train line. I think heading down to Pisa to pick up a car and then driving back into Liguria would be too much hassle in August.

If your trip is about relaxation, food and wine, and you'd like some non-foreign tourist experience of Liguria, also consider too staying in Sestri Levante, which has a number of nice restaurants and cafes and just a generally happy Italian atmosphere in summer -- although for Ferragosto you will really be in the thick of it. In Camogli, take a look at the pricey I Tre Merli for accommodations as well if you don't fancy a climb uphill, although many Camogli options can be nice.

One very unique perch is La Rosa Bianca in the tiny hamlet of Mortola, right above Camogli, at at the gateway to the Portofino national park. There are actually 2 quite good restaurants within a 10 minute walk, and 2 enjoyable bar/bakeries for lunch, and staircases and buses to take you several swimming spots along the coast. From the train station in Camogli, it's a 20 minute bus or taxi ride, then a 15 minute flat walk. It's just a tucked away paradise, with great food at hand, and uncrowded hiking with gorgeous views.

http://www.larosabiancadiportofino.com/home_en.html

Hey bella! I'm about to take a morning walk. La primavera e bella! Just talking up the 'hood.

macdogman,

You might also enjoy heading up to San Rocco di Camogli via Ruta while you are at Villa Rosmarino. It's a nice walk from Ruta to San Rocco, plus lots of other good hiking from many access points.

thanks, I will take note of that. We are arriving late afternoon (train from Paris to Milan to Camolgi) and the hike up to the hotel will be interesting. Probably will need some exercise after sitting all day.

You can get a bus or taxi pretty much right opposite the Camogli train station -- less than 20 steps. It is not uncommon for hotel owners in the hills of Camogli to meet their guests at the station and bring them up by car. You might ask Villa Rosmarino for specifics, including about how to get a bus and where to get off.

hi terry2x2...
zeppole really knows the area and is full of great insights.

We live in Vernazza during the summer and La Spezia during the school year.

I know La Mala well: it is a beautiful hotel with great views and Vernazza is a magical town. August will be a bit crowded anywhere because of Italian holidays. You could move to La Mala and even go to Sarzana for a day/a lunch/a dinner. There are trains from Vernazza right to Sarzana. Sarzana has some fantastic restaurants: Ottone Primo and Piceda are 2 of my favorites. In Vernazza, of course, you will have to eat at Gianni Franzi, the best antipasti misti and gnocchi al pesto!

Let us all know what you decide...sounds like a great trip!