Exploring the Enchanting Trails of Cinque Terre with Friends

Finding Serenity on the Trails of Cinque Terre

Today was a day filled with breathtaking views and charming village explorations. After several days of intense exploration, I was ready for a day that combined physical activity with the simple pleasures of Cinque Terre. I was looking forward to hiking the trails, tasting local cuisine, and soaking in the unique atmosphere of this coastal paradise.



Our day started in Corniglia with a quick and simple breakfast at Fast Bar. It wasn't anything fancy, but it provided just enough energy to get us going for our hike. I grabbed a cappuccino and a small pastry, which was perfect for a chilly morning in March. While the bar was quite small, it had a lovely atmosphere, and I enjoyed watching the locals start their day. Maximilian and I discussed our plans for the day, excited about the hike ahead. Then we set off towards Volastra and Manarola.



Experience the vibrant rock music scene at Fast Bar, where delicious food and refreshing drinks await in the heart of Monterosso al Mare.

The hike along Sentiero 7A from Corniglia to Volastra and then down to Manarola was absolutely stunning. The trail offered panoramic views of the coastline, with terraced vineyards cascading down to the sea. The path was well-maintained, but still provided a good workout. As we climbed higher, the views became even more spectacular, with each turn revealing a new vista of the Ligurian coastline.



Experience the breathtaking Sentiero 7A hiking trail, connecting Corniglia, Volastra, and Manarola with stunning coastal and vineyard views.

Volastra itself was a charming little village, perched high on the hillside. We took a few minutes to explore the narrow streets and admire the ancient stone buildings. The church of Santa Maria offered a peaceful respite, and we paused for a moment to soak in the tranquility before continuing our descent towards Manarola. It's amazing to think that people have lived and worked in these villages for centuries, carving out a life from the steep, rocky landscape.



Explore the serene beauty of Volastra, a charming village in the Italian Riviera offering stunning views and authentic Italian culture.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The descent to Manarola was steep but rewarding. As we approached the village, the iconic view of colorful houses clinging to the cliffs came into view. It was even more impressive in person than in the photos I had seen. The vibrant colors of the buildings contrasted against the deep blue of the sea, creating a picture-perfect scene.


For lunch, we stopped at San Martino Gastronomia in Manarola. This small, family-run restaurant was a delightful find. We enjoyed some freshly made pasta with pesto, a local specialty. The pesto was so fresh and flavorful, it was unlike anything I've ever tasted. It was a simple meal, but it was incredibly satisfying, and the friendly service made it even more enjoyable. Maximilian and I shared a bottle of local wine, savoring the flavors of the region.



Experience the best of Mediterranean cuisine at San Martino Gastronomia with fresh seafood and authentic Italian dishes in Monterosso al Mare.

After lunch, we took some time to explore Manarola. We wandered through the narrow streets, admiring the colorful houses and the bustling harbor. The village was full of life, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the beautiful day. We stopped to watch the fishermen bringing in their catch, and I couldn't resist taking a few photos of the picturesque scene. Clara would have loved this place; I must remember to bring her here next time.


Before dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to an aperitivo at Il Sole a 180 Gradi. This bar is located just outside of Manarola and offers stunning views of the coastline. We ordered some local wine and enjoyed the sunset over the sea. The atmosphere was relaxed and romantic, and it was the perfect way to end a beautiful day. It was a bit chilly, but the view was well worth it.



Discover Il Sole a 180 Gradi, a coastal bar in Cinque Terre offering stunning views, refreshing drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind.

For dinner, we chose Veciu Muin in Manarola. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. I was happy to find they offered gluten-free options, which is always a plus for me. I opted for the gluten-free pasta with seafood, while Maximilian enjoyed a traditional Ligurian dish. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to relax after a long day of hiking and exploring.



Experience authentic Italian pizza and fresh seafood at Veciu Muin in scenic Riomaggiore – where every meal is a taste of coastal paradise.

As the day drew to a close, I felt a sense of contentment. The combination of physical activity, beautiful scenery, and delicious food had been incredibly rejuvenating. Cinque Terre has a way of captivating the senses and leaving you feeling refreshed and inspired. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience this unique corner of Italy with my friends.


Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Porto Venere and the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere. I've heard it's another stunning area with beautiful hiking trails and charming villages. I am looking forward to exploring a new part of the Ligurian coast and discovering more of Italy's hidden gems. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Cose't Riomaggiore. It's always fun to bring home a little piece of the places we visit. I'm sure it will be another unforgettable day.


Reflecting on today, I'm reminded of a quote from one of my favorite Icelandic authors, Halldór Laxness:

Time is not something that একদিন passes; time is a sea in which we swim.

Today, I felt like I was truly swimming in the sea of time, fully immersed in the present moment and appreciating the simple joys of life. And that, my friends, is what travel is all about.


Until tomorrow!