Family Adventure in the Enchanting Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore: A Symphony of Colors and Flavors

Today, our family dove headfirst into the vibrant heart of Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of Cinque Terre. After our delightful experiences in Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza, I was eager to see what treasures Riomaggiore held. This village, clinging to steep cliffs, promised a day of exploration, delicious food, and unforgettable views.

The morning began with a leisurely stroll through the village. The narrow, winding streets of Riomaggiore are a feast for the eyes. Pastel-colored houses stacked precariously on top of each other created a mesmerizing, almost dreamlike atmosphere. Mei-Ling and Lin were captivated by the vibrant hues, snapping photos at every turn. I found myself drawn to the architectural details – the ancient stone, the arched doorways, and the flower-filled window boxes that seemed to spill life onto the streets. It reminded me of the bustling markets back in Douliu, Taiwan, each corner revealing a new surprise, a new delight.

Our first stop was the iconic Riomaggiore harbor. The small port teemed with colorful fishing boats bobbing gently in the turquoise water. The sight was simply stunning. Lin was particularly excited, pointing out the different types of boats and imagining the stories behind each one. I could almost feel the history seeping from the stones, a testament to generations of fishermen who had braved the Ligurian Sea. We spent a good hour simply soaking in the atmosphere, the salty air filling our lungs as we watched the local fishermen prepare for their day's work.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found not in grand monuments, but in the simple, everyday moments of life.

Next, we decided to explore the Castello di Riomaggiore. The climb to the castle was a bit steep, but the views from the top were more than worth the effort. From our vantage point, we could see the entire village spread out before us, a tapestry of colors against the backdrop of the shimmering sea. The castle itself, dating back to 1260, offered a glimpse into Riomaggiore's past, a time when these coastal villages were vulnerable to pirate attacks. I imagined the watchmen scanning the horizon, ever vigilant, their lives intertwined with the fate of the village. Lin was fascinated by the cannons, pretending to defend the castle from invaders. It was a fun and educational experience, bringing history to life for her in a tangible way.


Discover the enchanting Castello di Riomaggiore, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Cinque Terre.
After our historical adventure, it was time for lunch. Based on a recommendation, we chose Il Pirata delle 5 Terre. The restaurant exuded a cozy, rustic charm, and the aroma of fresh seafood wafted through the air. We ordered a selection of local specialties, including trofie al pesto, a Ligurian pasta dish with creamy pesto sauce, and grilled calamari. The flavors were incredible, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. Mei-Ling was particularly impressed with the freshness of the ingredients, noting that the pesto was the best she had ever tasted. As we savored our meal, we watched the boats bobbing in the harbor, the gentle sea breeze caressing our faces. It was the perfect way to refuel and recharge for the afternoon's adventures.


Experience authentic Italian seafood at Il Pirata delle 5 Terre in Vernazza—where every dish tells a story and every view captivates.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore the Via dell'Amore. This famous path, connecting Riomaggiore and Manarola, has been closed for several years due to landslides, but I was thrilled to learn that it had finally reopened in 2024. The path was relatively flat and easy, making it accessible for all of us. As we strolled along the cliffside, we were treated to breathtaking views of the coastline. The sea stretched out before us, a shimmering expanse of blue, and the rugged cliffs plunged dramatically into the water. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. Unfortunately, we were unable to complete the entire path to Manarola, but we savored every moment of the portion we could access, promising ourselves we would return to experience the full trail.


Explore the romantic Via dell'Amore, a stunning coastal path between Riomaggiore and Manarola, ideal for lovers and nature enthusiasts.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to seek out a spot for an aperitivo. I had read about Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma, a charming wine bar with stunning coastal views. Finding it required a bit of a climb, but the effort was well worth it. The bar was nestled on a hillside, overlooking the sea, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. We ordered a selection of local wines and some small bites, including olives, bruschetta, and focaccia. As we sipped our wine and savored the flavors of Liguria, we watched the sun begin its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the heart of Italian culture at Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma in Riomaggiore, where exceptional wines meet breathtaking coastal views.
Before heading back to our hotel in Monterosso al Mare, we decided to try one more restaurant for dinner. We chose Dau Cila, enticed by its waterfront location and reputation for fresh seafood. We secured a table with a view of the harbor and ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, seafood pasta, and a traditional Ligurian seafood stew. The food was delicious, the service was attentive, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. It was the perfect way to celebrate our day of exploration in Riomaggiore.


Experience authentic Italian seafood cuisine with breathtaking sea views at Dau Cila in Riomaggiore.
As we walked back to the train station, I reflected on our day in Riomaggiore. It was a day filled with discoveries, both big and small. We explored ancient castles, strolled along scenic paths, savored delicious food, and soaked in breathtaking views. But more importantly, we connected with each other and with the spirit of this charming village. Riomaggiore is more than just a collection of colorful houses; it is a living, breathing community with a rich history and a vibrant culture. It is a place where time seems to slow down, where the simple pleasures of life are celebrated, and where memories are made that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Manarola, another gem of Cinque Terre. We're particularly excited to visit the Manarola Overlook Viewpoint and the Presepe di Manarola, a unique nativity scene. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at Nessun Dorma and Trattoria dal Billy. I have a feeling that tomorrow will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. Until then, ciao from Cinque Terre!