​RICK STEVES' EUROPE

Cinque Terre, Italy  Day 5, 6

 

Cinque Terre is amazingly delightful place. Words can not describe the five fishing villages. When arriving at Monterosso al Mare - rain again! But guess what, it didn't matter - I was in Italy!

 

Because of the storm and rough seas the ferry system was not running... only the train. You will see in several photos the stormy sea and the boats were brought to shore for safe keeping. Learning the train system was great fun and easy after you got the hang of it. Challenge accomplished!

 

When I explored Corniglia I climbed a footpath that zigzags up 380 steps to the town. Cutest little town ever!!! I also ran down the steps to catch the train to the next village - I was counting on the train to be on "Italy Time" - always late. It was, caught the train and didn't have to wait 2 hours for the next one. Challege accomplished!

 

I was passing by the Trattoria il Porticciolo when a couple from the group spotted me and invited me to join them. They insisted that I join them because they didn't want me to eat alone. I did and I'm glad I did. I got to know this wonderful couple - such kindness and full of life! I had the Pesto Lasagna. Still dreaming of this lasagna.... A wonderful time -- they made me slow down! Challege accomplished!

In my photos I tried to capture each village as its own. Again you will see that I am fascinated by wrought iron, balconys, and displays/packaging of the small stores.