What can I add about this place that hasn’t already been said?

Five small villages, strung along a stretch of steep mountain coastline, seemingly untouched by modernity. Linked by some challenging hiking trails, and a railway that never sleeps. Wonderful cafes and restaurants everywhere, the food grown just up the hillside.

After our gruelling hikes, we had lunch in Vernazza and Corniglio, and then returned to our hotel in Monterosso to enjoy the Italian lifestyle – the evening stroll, and dinner outdoors…..while the trains ran by like streetcars.

Views from the trails

Vernazo, looking back to Monterosso. We hiked from one to the other – up and down that ridge in the middle. For the first time in my life, I thought my hiking days might be behind me.

The trail is visible in the upper right – yep, we climbed all that way up from sea level, and all the way back down to the harbour in Vernazzo. Happily, there is a great bar down by the water.

Corniglio, next town south of Vernazzo, from the trail. Another hike, but another great lunch.

Back in Monterosso at dusk

Around the backstreets

Rick Steves says this guy makes the best Gelato in Italy. I can see why he raves.

We had a little rain while we were in town. No problem – just a great opportunity to open a bottle of wine and soak up the views.

The Night Life

Sunday October 13th was Jan’s birthday……we took the train to Portofino for her birthday lunch. It was a gorgeous place, and a great meal. The staff found a pretty big piece of fireworks for the occasion.

And, of course….there were trains…..see the next page