Manarola is a great base for exploring the Cinque Terre. It's the least touristy of the five lands. It boasts a number of short, easy walking trails. What's more, it's characteristic. Manarola is perched on a steep, black promontory. It's bordered on three sides by a terraced hillside and sits facing the sea. Founded in the 12th century, Manarola is a typical Genovese hamlet. Its multi-colored tower houses are accessible from more than one level. The narrow streets called carruggi are more step than road. The one drawback? There's no beach in Manarola, not even a small one.