If you picture an Italian seaside holiday, you're probably visualizing Cinque Terre. A series of five towns of pastel-colored houses clinging onto stunning craggy cliffs over clear turquoise sea, it's an iconic vacation destination. 

Cinque Terre is thronged every summer with sun-seekers looking for beach relaxation, hikers excited about the area's famous walking trails, and Instagrammers looking for the perfect bikini shot. This makes it crushingly busy, and often difficult place to experience the authentic spirit of the area.