There is no question that this region is one of the more spectacular places to visit in Italy. Other places would be the Almafi coast, the Isle of Capri, Venice, Corsica, the Vatican and Sicily.
We flew into Milan’s International airport, Malpenza, and stayed a few days. We were forced to stay an extra day due to a railroad strike.
At Milan’s famous Central Train Station, and after a long wait, we were able to snag First Class tickets for the four-hour ride to Cinque Terrie. We took the train where we did not have to change stations. A First-class cabin is maybe second class standards in Switzerland.
Our ride went fast as we met another couple from Florida, Sue Pakula and her boyfriend Doug Frey. Since that time, this fun and lively couple are now married. We exchanged pictures.
Cinque Terrie means “Five Lands.” Actually, they are five villages along Italy’s northwest coast along the Ligurian Sea.
We had to walk maybe a half a mile south from the Monterosso Al mare train station.
It is the first of five towns coming from the north. Along the way we came across a German WWII Bunker.
You had to go through a tunnel which separates the town.
The north side is referred to as “New Town.”
The southside is “Old Town.”
Our hotel, Hotel Stella Della Marina, is in “Old Town.”
Hotel Stella is named after the owner’s daughter. Gabriele treated us first class.
Gabriele carried our bags up four floors as there is no elevator.
This guy is in shape. We highly recommend if you ever stay here, try to get one of the two upper rooms. We were in room #12. A very comfortable hotel. Even though the room had AC, the crosswinds were marvelous though.
The shower was small, it was doable though.
During the day, church bells would go off. We could see the sea from our window.
Gabriele even took care of breakfast. There is a picturesque patio deck. At night, the patio serves as a “Happy Hour” gathering. We met interesting people from Norway who spoke perfect English.
Why did we pick Monterosso al mare to stay? Actually, I think you could stay in any of the other four villages to gain a superb experience. We liked the fact it was the only one with an actual “beach.” Living in Jensen Beach, it was just a natural fit.
Old Town is quaint. A number of narrow alleys, café’s and shops. This area is famous for growing lemons.
A few cats can even be seen.
You could possibly drive to Monterosso. Between the other villages, though, it is best to either take the train or ferry. Even in early June, these villages were crowded.
Cinque Terre is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also an Italian National Park. To walk in one of the 48 hiking trails, you will need a “Cinque Terre card.” These cards can be combined with the regional train that travels between the villages.
For a number of years, parts of the coastal trail were destroyed by the Flood of 2011. Everything should be on-line by 2023. Some of these trails are paved like “The Way of Love” between Riomaggiore to Manarola. Some of the trails you will need to be in shape going up and around rocks. The views are majestic.
We had lunch several times in “New Town” in Monterosso, a place called “Cantina di Miky ” They had tables along the ocean and inside tables when it rained. We ate at both places.
We had our normal salads and appetizers.
Kathie went out of the box and ordered Sardines. Instead of eating one, I took a picture of them.
I had stuffed mussels. Not many, but they were delicious.
Riomaggiore
Our second day we decided to visit the village that was the furthest away from us, Riomaggiore. This village dates back to the 13th century.
You can easily get to Riomaggiore by either train or ferry.
Manarola
The bright and colorful buildings make exquisite pictures.
The town was possibly named for the “large wheel” in town which acted as a mill. The town dates back to 1338.
The village is famous for its wine, Sciacchetra. We saw it advertised but did not partake.
Corniglia
This village does not have direct sea access. It actually sits on top of a large hill. You have to walk from the train station over to 382 steps and 33 flights to get to Corniglia.
The roses in June were in full bloom.
Corniglia is quaint with narrow alley ways.
Many of the doors are decorated.
The views are majestic.
We did meet Sue and Doug coming out of their pension. They just loved it in Corniglia.
Vernazza
Our favorite of all the villages. Vernazza is regareded as of the truest “fishing villages” along the Italian Riviera. It was a fortified town as early as 1080. We saw this grandfather out with his family on a boat.
On October 25th, 2011 it was hit by a massive flood and a 15 foot mudslide causing over 100 million dollars of damage. It is just one of several episodes of the rising and ebbing of an Italian village.
As you go into town from the train station, there are pictures of the catastrophe.
By the sea is a small but beautiful church, Santuario di Nostra Signora di Reggio.
Inside was quaint, a time for reflection and prayer.
Outside we saw a group of older men, enjoying the moments and each other’s company.
In this middle of the village is a tiny sanctuary, Chapel of Santa Marta.
Without a doubt, a trip up to the Doria Castle is a must see. The tower was built to spot pirates that lurked out in the open seas. There was also troubles from the Turks.
Commanding views can be had at all levels of the castle.
A local recommended eating at Ristorante Belforte which was established over fifty years ago. It is a huge tower of sorts with different sitting areas, ideal to view the open sea.
We were able to arrive at the restaurants opening for lunch. We were seated right on the main tower patio.
The main inside restaurant looked interesting. A bit small for our standards.
I found out that the outside door was from a WWII submarine.
The views from our tower table were awesome.
Even a bird came to visit.
Kathie had a seafood dish.
And I had my standard Spaghetti vongole (clams).
I must admit the entrée of the young man just next to our table looked even more enticing. It was “curried shrimp.”
I did not order it as I thought the shrimp must have their heads still on which is typical for many European restaurants. This was not the case at Ristorante Belforte. Next time I will ask and not assume.
We later had an interesting conversation with the two men seated next to our table. They spoke perfectly good English. I believe they were from Austria.
Our waiter was most entertaining.
Our last day it rained. It did not dampen our loving attitude towards Cinque Terre.
