Family Adventure in the Scenic Cinque Terre

Monterosso: A Colorful Beginning

After our train journey from Lyon, I couldn't wait to dive into the beauty of Cinque Terre. Arriving in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages, felt like stepping into a postcard. The colorful buildings, the salty air, and the sound of the waves immediately set a relaxed and joyful tone for our family adventure.

As we stepped off the train, the crisp January air greeted us, a refreshing change from Lyon's usual dampness. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, immediately checked our bearings, while Sophie's eyes widened at the sight of the vibrant buildings. Even in winter, Monterosso exuded a certain charm that was hard to resist. We made our way to Hotel Souvenir, our home for the next week. The hotel was as charming as the pictures suggested, and the staff welcomed us warmly, making us feel right at home.


Experience the charm of Monterosso al Mare at Hotel Souvenir, your budget-friendly haven with comfort, convenience, and a friendly atmosphere.

Our first order of business was, of course, food. Breakfast at Ristorante Al Carugio Monterosso Al Mare was a delightful experience. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air. Sophie devoured a *pain au chocolat* (a little piece of France still with us!), while Jean-Pierre and I enjoyed a classic Italian breakfast of *cappuccino* and *cornetto*. It was the perfect start to our day, fueling us for our exploration of Monterosso.

With our bellies full, we set out to explore. Monterosso is divided into two main parts: the old town and the new town (Fegina), connected by a pedestrian tunnel. We started with Fegina, where the famous Monterosso public beach (Fegina) stretches out. Even though it was January, the beach had a serene beauty. The absence of summer crowds allowed us to appreciate the stillness of the sea and the rugged coastline. Sophie, bundled in her winter coat, couldn't resist collecting seashells, her laughter echoing along the shore. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the unique light and colors of the Ligurian coast in winter.


Discover the stunning Monterosso Public Beach, where sun-soaked shores meet vibrant local culture in the heart of Cinque Terre.

The beauty of Cinque Terre lies not just in its landscapes, but in the simple moments shared with loved ones amidst its colorful streets.

We strolled along the promenade, taking in the views of the Ligurian Sea. The air was fresh and invigorating, and the sky, though partly cloudy, offered glimpses of brilliant blue. It was a far cry from the bustling beaches I'd seen in photos, but there was a quiet magic to it that I found incredibly appealing. I could imagine how wonderful it would be to return in the summer, but there was something special about experiencing Monterosso in its quieter season. The absence of crowds allowed us to connect with the town on a more intimate level, to appreciate its authentic charm without the distractions of mass tourism.

Next, we ventured through the pedestrian tunnel to the old town. The tunnel itself was an experience, the cool darkness giving way to the charming, narrow streets of the old town. It felt like stepping back in time. The old town is a maze of colorful buildings, artisan shops, and traditional restaurants. We wandered through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere. Sophie was fascinated by the small shops selling handmade goods, her eyes darting from one colorful display to another.

One shop that caught my eye was Lanapo Cinque Terre - Monterosso. I had read about their handmade sandals, inspired by vintage designs and crafted with Tuscan leather. The shop was small but inviting, and the sandals on display were beautiful. I couldn't resist trying on a pair, and the quality was evident. I ended up buying a pair for myself and a smaller pair for Sophie, a little memento of our trip.


Explore Lanapo Cinque Terre in Monterosso for exquisite handcrafted sandals and chic Italian clothing, perfect for your Riviera adventure.

Lunch at Da Eraldo was another highlight of our day. This charming restaurant, tucked away in a small square, came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the staff treated us like family. We started with a selection of local seafood, fresh and flavorful. Jean-Pierre opted for the grilled octopus, while Sophie, surprisingly, chose the clam pasta. I decided on the swordfish, grilled to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. The food was simple but delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients. The house wine, a crisp Ligurian white, was the perfect accompaniment to our meal. As we ate, we watched the locals going about their day, a glimpse into the authentic life of Monterosso.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Da Eraldo in Monterosso al Mare – a culinary gem with stunning sea views.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the old town. We visited the Church of San Giovanni Battista, a beautiful Gothic-Genovese church dating back to the 13th century. The black and white marble stripes on the facade were striking, and the interior was equally impressive. Sophie was fascinated by the stained-glass windows, their colors dancing in the afternoon light. We lit a candle for my grandmother, a small gesture of remembrance in this beautiful setting.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to Fegina. We decided to take a walk along the beach, enjoying the last rays of sunlight. The sky was painted with hues of orange and pink, a breathtaking sight. Sophie ran ahead, chasing the waves, her laughter carried on the breeze. Jean-Pierre and I walked hand in hand, savoring the moment. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

For dinner, we chose Miky, a renowned seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches and creative dishes. The restaurant had a stylish and elegant ambiance, and the staff were attentive and friendly. We started with a selection of raw seafood, including tuna and red prawns, bursting with flavor. For the main course, Jean-Pierre chose the baked sea bass, while I opted for the seafood risotto. Sophie, always adventurous, tried the spaghetti alla chitarra with anchovies, tomatoes, pine nuts, and olives. The food was exceptional, a true celebration of Ligurian cuisine. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the dishes were beautifully presented. It was a memorable dining experience, a fitting end to our first day in Cinque Terre.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Miky in Monterosso al Mare – where fresh seafood meets breathtaking coastal views.

As we walked back to our hotel, the stars twinkled above us, and the sound of the waves lulled us into a peaceful state. Monterosso had captured our hearts. Its colorful streets, delicious food, and serene beaches had created a magical experience for our family. I knew that this was just the beginning of our Cinque Terre adventure, and I couldn't wait to see what the next few days would bring.

Tomorrow, we plan to hike the Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza trail. I've heard the views are incredible, and I'm excited to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre from a different perspective. Sophie is already looking forward to it, and Jean-Pierre, ever the planner, has already mapped out our route. I have a feeling it's going to be another unforgettable day.

Back at the hotel, as Sophie drifted off to sleep, clutching her new Lanapo sandals, I reflected on our day. I felt a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to explore such a beautiful place with my family. Even in January, Cinque Terre had a magic that was undeniable. I couldn't wait to share our experiences with you all, and I hoped that our journey would inspire you to create your own unforgettable memories.

Before drifting off to sleep myself, I made a mental note to buy sunglasses and a power adapter tomorrow. I realized I had forgotten these essentials in my haste to pack. It seems even the most organized traveler can have a little oversight! But hey, that's part of the adventure, right?

Goodnight from Monterosso!