The Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera

On Monday, October 13th, 2014 we traveled from Florence by train via La Spezia and arrived at our "home" base of Vernazza for a 3 day adventure. The Cinque Terre (pronounced CHINK-weh TAY-reh) "The Five Lands" comprises the five villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Our plan was to walk the Cinque Terre park trails connecting the villages, but due to rains prior to our arrival the trails were deemed unsafe and closed. Nevertheless, we explored Vernazza from hilltops to harbor, as well as walking and exploring Monterosso al Mare, and the larger town of Portovenere to the south. A water taxi on the Ligurian Sea provided wonderful vistas traveling past all of the Cinque Terre villages and each and every village excursion included friendly greetings, Old World vistas and exceptionally fresh and expertly prepared cuisine. Come along.

Everywhere there remains evidence of the far reaching impact of the October 25th, 2011 Flood.
Stay mellow in colorful Vernazza and get your calories and exercise too.
This is Giuliono Basso's and his four lovely rental places high on the hills above Vernazza. He is the famed wall and house builder that does the meticulous stonework and masonry shown above - the town's last. http://www.cdh.itdh.it/giuliano e-mail: giuliano@cdh.it
Cinque Terre Vernazza
Cinque Terre Vernazza
Everywhere neighbors and friends take the time to stop, talk, share stories and then continue onward.
View of Vernazza from high on the cemetery hill overlooking the town.
Entrance to the cemetery at the top of the hill overlooking Vernazza.
Thursday morning, a new day with fresh fruits and vegetables at wonderful Salumi Formago.
By the sea, Vernazza's harbor front church provides a comforting refuge from the storms.
A colorful and magical world that has withstood the challenges of centuries while retaining its charm and heavenly gems including fresh vegetables, fish and fine wines.
Cinque Terre Vernazza
Ciao to a world of winding stair steps, bright pastel colors, flower pots and laundry outside windows with vineyard covered hills and harbor views. Time to speed away on the train with hopes of finding the next superb cappuccino and quiet place to rest the soul.