Family Adventure in the Enchanting Cinque Terre

A Day of Discovery in Cinque Terre

Today was a day of exploration and immersion in the natural beauty and rich history of Cinque Terre. With my family by my side, I embarked on a journey that took us through scenic trails, ancient hermitages, and the charming streets of Vernazza. The day was a perfect blend of physical activity, historical discovery, and culinary delights, leaving us with memories to cherish.

The morning started early as we prepared for our hike to Punta Mesco. After a quick breakfast at Hotel Souvenir, ensuring we had enough water, sunscreen, and our cameras, we set off towards the western end of Monterosso's Il Gigante beach. The trailhead was easy to find, and soon we were ascending the path that promised breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea.


Explore Punta Mesco, a scenic coastal paradise in Monterosso al Mare, where breathtaking views and lush landscapes await every traveler.

The Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza, also known as the Blue Trail, was our path for a portion of the day. The August sun was already warming the air, but thankfully, parts of the trail were shaded, offering a pleasant respite from the heat. As we climbed, Lin was full of energy, pointing out interesting plants and insects, while Mei-Ling and I took our time, enjoying the panoramic views unfolding behind us. Being an orchard manager, I always appreciate seeing how others cultivate the land, and the terraced hillsides were a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the local farmers.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Ligurian coast on the Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza, a must-visit hiking trail in Cinque Terre.

The trail was moderately challenging, with some steep sections that required a bit of effort. I was glad we had our sturdy hiking shoes, as the path was rocky and uneven in places. We took frequent breaks to catch our breath and hydrate, and I made sure to capture the stunning scenery with my camera. Mei-Ling, ever the practical one, reminded us to pace ourselves and enjoy the journey, not just the destination. She was right, of course. Sometimes, I get so focused on reaching the end that I forget to appreciate the present moment.

The journey, not the destination, is the true reward.

As we approached Punta Mesco, the ruins of the Hermitage of Sant'Antonio del Mesco came into view. The hermitage, dating back to the 11th century, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and religious heritage. We explored the remains of the ancient structure, imagining the lives of the monks who once sought solitude and contemplation in this remote location. The views from the hermitage were simply stunning, with the coastline stretching from the Portofino promontory to the Cinque Terre and Palmaria Island.


Explore the scenic tranquility of the Hermitage of Sant'Antonio del Mesco, a historic church nestled in the heart of Cinque Terre National Park, Italy.

I explained to Lin about the history of the hermitage, how it was first documented in 1380, but believed to be much older, possibly from the 11th century. The hermitage includes two buildings with perimeter walls and an apse. The 15th-century wooden statue of Saint Anthony, which was formerly displayed at the hermitage, now resides in the Mortis et Orationis oratory in Monterosso. It’s fascinating to think about the people who lived and prayed here centuries ago, seeking solace and connection with something greater than themselves.
After exploring the hermitage, we continued our hike to the Punta Mesco viewpoint. The abandoned building at the summit added a touch of mystery to the landscape, and the sweeping vistas of the Ligurian Sea were truly breathtaking. From this vantage point, we could see all five villages of Cinque Terre, nestled along the coastline like colorful jewels. I pointed out Monterosso, where we were staying, and Vernazza, our next destination. The August sun sparkled on the water, creating a mesmerizing scene that I knew I would never forget.
The descent towards Vernazza was equally rewarding, with the trail winding through lush Mediterranean vegetation. The air was filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers, and the sound of cicadas provided a constant soundtrack to our hike. As we neared Vernazza, the village came into view, perched on a rocky promontory and surrounded by colorful houses. It was a sight that truly captured the essence of Cinque Terre's charm.
We arrived in Vernazza just in time for lunch, and we were eager to sample the local cuisine. Based on my research, Il Gambero Rosso and Il Gattaccio - Acciugheria & Street Food seemed like promising options. We decided to try Il Gattaccio, known for its fresh, locally sourced anchovies and traditional Italian recipes. Luckily we were able to find space at this small restaurant.


Discover Il Gattaccio in Vernazza for an unforgettable taste of authentic Italian street food amidst stunning coastal scenery.

The restaurant was bustling with activity, and the aroma of freshly prepared seafood filled the air. We ordered a selection of dishes, including the anchovy sandwich, pesto pasta, and mixed seafood pasta. The food was simply divine, bursting with flavor and made with the freshest ingredients. Lin especially enjoyed the pesto pasta, while Mei-Ling and I savored the anchovy sandwich, a local specialty. It was a delightful culinary experience that gave us a true taste of Vernazza's gastronomic heritage.
After lunch, we took some time to explore the village, wandering through its narrow streets and admiring the colorful houses. Vernazza is a true gem, with its picturesque harbor, charming shops, and stunning views of the sea. We visited the Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church, a beautiful example of Ligurian Gothic architecture. I was particularly interested in the Doria Castle, a medieval fortress that once protected the village from pirates. The views from the castle were simply spectacular, offering a panoramic perspective of Vernazza and the surrounding coastline.
As we strolled through the village, we stumbled upon Old School Cocktails & Food, a bar known for its interesting cocktails and street food. We decided to stop for a refreshing drink, and I ordered a local wine while Mei-Ling and Lin opted for smoothies. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Vernazza.


Discover the charm of Old School Cocktails & Food in Riomaggiore, where traditional cocktails meet modern culinary delights in a picturesque setting.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Monterosso, taking the train from Vernazza. The train ride offered another opportunity to admire the stunning scenery of Cinque Terre, as the tracks wound along the coastline, passing through tunnels and over bridges. We arrived back at Hotel Souvenir tired but exhilarated, our hearts full of memories of a day well spent.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Cinque Terre, heading to Sentiero 7A Corniglia-Volastra-Manarola and the village of Volastra. I am looking forward to seeing more of this beautiful region and sharing our experiences with you. I am hoping to find some time to visit Cinque Terre Trekking shop.
Before heading to bed, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the challenging hike to Punta Mesco to the delicious food and charming streets of Vernazza, it was a day that truly captured the essence of Cinque Terre. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.