Family Adventure in the Enchanting Cinque Terre

Manarola's Embrace
Today, Manarola unveiled its timeless beauty, captivating Mei-Ling, Lin, and me with its vibrant colors and serene atmosphere. It was a day of exploration, culinary delights, and unforgettable moments. As we continue our Cinque Terre adventure, I am reminded of the simple joys of family travel and the beauty of discovering new places together.

Our day began with a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in the unique atmosphere of Manarola. The narrow, winding streets, lined with colorful houses, created a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a postcard. It was easy to understand why Manarola is often considered the most scenic village in Cinque Terre. As we wandered, we stumbled upon the Manarola Boutique, a charming shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs. Mei-Ling and Lin were immediately drawn to the exquisite ceramics and jewelry, each piece reflecting the artistic heritage of the region. I admired the selection of local wines, imagining bringing a taste of Cinque Terre back home to Kelowna. We picked up a few small items, perfect reminders of our time here. I managed to find a lovely handmade ceramic tea set, which will be perfect for brewing Taiwanese tea back in Kelowna, reminding me of this beautiful Italian escape.


Experience the essence of Manarola at Manarola Boutique, your go-to place for unique ceramics, jewelry, souvenirs, and local wines.

Manarola is a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor every moment and appreciate the simple beauty of life.

Next on our itinerary was the Manarola Overlook Viewpoint, a spot renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views. The short walk to the viewpoint was pleasant, with locals selling artwork along the way. As we reached the top, we were greeted by a stunning vista of Manarola's colorful houses cascading down to the sea. The August sun cast a golden glow over the scene, enhancing the beauty of the landscape. Lin was particularly excited, pointing out the different colors of the houses and the boats bobbing in the harbor. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. The viewpoint was indeed a dream spot for photographers, as many have noted.


Experience unparalleled views of Manarola and the stunning Ligurian coastline at the breathtaking Manarola Overlook Viewpoint in Italy's Cinque Terre.
For lunch, we decided to try Nessun Dorma, a restaurant recommended for its delicious food and stunning views. Fortunately, we arrived early enough to avoid the long lines that often form. We secured a table with a perfect view of Manarola and the coastline. The atmosphere was casual and friendly, adding to the charm of the place. Nessun Dorma specializes in local Ligurian cuisine, and we were eager to sample their offerings. Mei-Ling ordered the pesto bruschetta, while Lin opted for the classic tomato bruschetta. I chose a panini with local cheese and prosciutto. The food was fresh and flavorful, and the portions were generous. We savored every bite, accompanied by refreshing drinks and the mesmerizing view. I couldn't resist trying an Aperol Spritz, a perfect complement to the Italian summer vibe. Lin, of course, enjoyed a sparkling lemonade, feeling very grown-up as she sipped it.


Experience authentic Italian flavors with stunning coastal views at Nessun Dorma in Manarola.
After a satisfying lunch, we made our way to the Presepe di Manarola, the famous nativity scene that adorns the hillside. Although the full display of lights isn't until December, we were still able to appreciate the intricate figures and the story they tell. I learned that the Presepe was created by Mario Andreoli, a retired railway worker, who dedicated over 30 years to this unique project. It was inspiring to see how one person's vision could transform an entire landscape. The Presepe is also environmentally friendly, powered by a photovoltaic system. This commitment to sustainability resonated with my own values, reinforcing the importance of preserving the environment for future generations. While we won't be here to see it in its full illuminated glory during the Christmas season, it was fascinating to learn about its history and significance.


Discover the magic of the Presepe di Manarola, a stunning nativity scene illuminating the charm of this picturesque Italian village along the stunning Cinque Terre coastline.
As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in some more local cuisine, this time at Trattoria dal Billy. This hillside restaurant is known for its seafood dishes and breathtaking views. The climb to the restaurant was a bit challenging, but the reward was well worth it. We were seated on the terrace, overlooking the village and the sea. The sunset views were simply spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. We ordered a selection of seafood dishes, including lobster, stuffed mussels, and squid ink pasta. The flavors were exquisite, and the seafood tasted incredibly fresh. Mei-Ling particularly enjoyed the lobster, while Lin devoured the stuffed mussels. I savored the squid ink pasta, a unique and delicious culinary experience. The friendly staff and warm ambiance added to the overall enjoyment of the meal.


Discover authentic Italian flavors and stunning coastal views at Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola, a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Before heading back to our hotel in Monterosso al Mare, we took one last stroll through Manarola, soaking in the magical atmosphere of the village at night. The streets were quieter now, the day-trippers having departed. The soft glow of the streetlights illuminated the colorful houses, creating a romantic and peaceful ambiance. We stopped for gelato, a perfect ending to a perfect day. Lin chose a vibrant strawberry flavor, while Mei-Ling and I opted for classic pistachio. As we savored our gelato, we reflected on the beauty and charm of Manarola, a place that had captured our hearts with its timeless appeal.


Experience the charm of Monterosso al Mare at Hotel Souvenir, your budget-friendly haven with comfort, convenience, and a friendly atmosphere.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Corniglia, the only village in Cinque Terre not directly accessible by the sea. I am particularly interested in visiting the Scalinata Lardarina, a long staircase that leads to the village center. We also hope to visit the Chiesa di San Pietro, a historic church with stunning views. And perhaps we'll end the day with a drink at Terza Terra, a bar known for its local wines and relaxed atmosphere. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

It's interesting to note that August 18th falls within the period of Ferragosto, an Italian holiday that extends from August 15th. Ferragosto has roots in ancient Rome and is a time for celebration and relaxation. Although we didn't encounter any specific Ferragosto events in Manarola today, it's likely that the festive atmosphere and sense of community were influenced by this holiday.