The Italian Riviera boasts one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the country and attracts thousands of tourists every year.
In particular, the Ligurian coast’s collection of centuries-old villages has made the region world famous.
Cinque Terre is made up of five villages, with colorful houses and vineyards spread out along steep terraces.
The harbour is full of fishing boats and restaurants serve seafood dishes along with pesto, Liguria’s famous sauce.
But fame comes with undesirable problems and, like many other popular tourist destinations, the area is having to grapple with mass tourism.
Last year, approximately four million tourists marveled at the area’s unique and natural beauty.
Most arrive by train, but several thousand people a day arrive by ferry from La Spezia, often carrying cruise ship passengers on day trips.
Many are determined to capture the perfect Instagram photo to share with family and friends back home.
The influx of tourists has affected the peaceful life of local residents, who can no longer enjoy their traditional pleasures.
Giancarlo Sierano, 80, told the Guardian: “Older people like me were used to going to bed around 4 o’clock.
“But then more people came and it was just too much. There were constant voices on the street, suitcases being rolled and you couldn’t hear the sea.”
Officials are trying to balance the needs of the local economy with those of residents and the environment.
Officials decided to make the Sentiero Azzurro, the national park’s busiest trail, one-way on public holidays to better manage demand.
“Our problem is not overtourism, but overcrowding at certain times of the year,” said Fabrizia Pecunia, mayor of both Manarola and Riomaggiore.
“The main challenge is how to distribute tourism across the region. Tourism is fundamental for us, so we need to act quickly without coming across as anti-tourism.”
