San Bernardino – Murro Superiore – Sanctuary of Our Lady of Reggio (REL trail marker 507 / former no. 7)

The route begins in the church square of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace in the small hillside settlement of San Bernardino, a hamlet perched above the municipality of Vernazza. At first, the trail follows a gentle contour line across the sunny slope overlooking the sea.

The first section crosses an area deeply shaped by human labour: the route passes dry-stone walls supporting historic vineyards, where the famous Sciacchetrà wine is produced, and centuries-old olive groves. It reaches and passes Murro Superiore, an old cluster of farmhouses and rustic stone buildings, partly restored, bearing witness to the rural and "heroic" economy of the Cinque Terre. Along this stretch, the vertical view over Vernazza and its small harbour is simply spectacular.

Beyond Murro Superiore, the trail enters cooler, shaded areas where Mediterranean scrub alternates with woods of holm oak, downy oak and chestnut. After crossing small streams flowing through the rocks, the route continues with moderate gradients until it joins the monumental tree-lined avenue leading to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Reggio. The ancient sixteenth-century complex, surrounded by majestic holm oaks and centuries-old cypresses, welcomes hikers with a large level area and a historic fountain. It is an ideal place to rest and also offers a quick pedestrian connection, via trail 508, descending directly towards Vernazza railway station.

The trail is well marked and does not present mountaineering difficulties. However, as it is a mid-slope route, some short sections can be narrow and partly exposed above the terraces below: a steady step and due care are recommended, especially when walking with children. In winter or after heavy rain, shaded woodland sections and fixed stones along the path can retain moisture and become slippery. Trekking shoes with good grip are recommended.