The Cinque Terre, Italy

Hello to all again from the Cinque Terre in Italy. What a difference between the Swiss Alps and the Italian Riviera. Waking up to Crisp Mountain air, wearing three jackets and a touqe and gloves, then getting off the train to crystal blue skies and water. People on the beach in bathing suits, basking in the sun.

This is another gem of a place. Hillsides of terraced plantations. Olives, lemon trees, tomatoes, grapes....what a sight.

The Cinque Terre is made up of 5 towns along the coast. We are staying in Monterosso, the first of the 5 towns. We have spent our time hiking the many trails between the towns. Some of the trails are steep and narrow, up and down along the hillsides, offering amazing views. Some are flat and paved with stones, and are perfect for the hoards of retired folks. We tested all, and some twice. After all this hiking, our bodies are tired and in need of a rest day.

The food here is, as it has been for this whole trip, very very good. Focacia bread, Bruscetta, Tomato and Mozzerela Salads, Pesto, Pasta, Pizza, Red Wine and of course, Coca-Cola Classic. Also, you can't forget the Gelato....Three scoops please.

Anyways, here are some more photos for your viewing pleasure.

This is the view from our hotel room, just up the street from all the Action of Monterosso.

During our first night, we took some shots of the town from the beach. This is it.

The view over Corniglia from the trail we walked. Small little town, maybe 1000 people live there. One steep main street from the beach.

What a bunch of cuties ?

Another view down the main street of Corniglia. Boats line the streets, as the summer season is ending.

Vernazza, another one of the 5 towns. We had focacia bread, with sele and olives, on the waterfront piazza. Delicioso!

The terraced hillside, from our hike along the trail.

A view down over Vernazza, with an Asparagus Tree.....Darcie thinks. It really did look like one big piece of asparagus.

Vernazza.

Another night view.

This is the town we are staying in, Monterosso. The waters from up high look so inviting.

The Cinque Terre Coastline, waves crashing on the cliffside. This was almost the highest point of the trek.

Another view of Vernazza.

Sweaty hike time.

Waves crashing.

The train, as it passes by.

Tomorrow we wake up early to catch the train to Venice. Can't wait to see the Grand Canal. Three days there, then back to London.

Gotta go, as the Gelato stand is calling our names.

Till the next post.....Mike and Darcia or Darcie and Michealo.