Family Adventure in the Scenic Cinque Terre

Coastal Trails and Culinary Delights

Today was nothing short of magical. Waking up in Monterosso al Mare, with the crisp January air and the promise of stunning vistas, I knew it would be a day to remember. It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the joy of travel, the thrill of discovery, and the simple pleasures of experiencing new places with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at San Martino Gastronomia. I had read so many glowing reviews of this place, and it did not disappoint. Tucked away in a small alley, it felt like a true hidden gem. Jean-Pierre and I enjoyed strong cappuccinos while Sophie devoured a *sfoglia* with a creamy filling. It was the perfect fuel for our upcoming hike. I made a mental note to try and recreate the delicious *pansotti al pesto* I had, once we were back in Lyon. It was so delicious!


Experience the best of Mediterranean cuisine at San Martino Gastronomia with fresh seafood and authentic Italian dishes in Monterosso al Mare.
With our bellies full, we set off towards the famed Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza. The weather was surprisingly mild, with temperatures hovering around 11°C, which made the hike quite pleasant. I was glad I'd packed layers, though, as the wind picked up in certain exposed areas. I was also glad to be wearing my hiking boots, despite the fact that I almost forgot them when packing in Lyon! The trail was open, thankfully, and though a bit steep in places, it was manageable even with Sophie in tow. She was such a trooper, her little legs working hard as we climbed. Jean-Pierre was great, keeping her entertained with stories and pointing out interesting flora along the way. I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments, for the chance to explore such a beautiful place with the people I love most.


Discover the breathtaking views and cultural charm along the iconic Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza hiking trail in Cinque Terre, Italy.

Sometimes, the most beautiful paths are the ones that challenge you the most.

The views were, as expected, absolutely breathtaking. The Ligurian Sea sparkled below, and the rugged coastline stretched out before us in all its glory. We stopped frequently to take photos, wanting to capture every moment of this incredible experience. Sophie loved spotting the colorful houses clinging to the cliffs, each one seemingly more charming than the last. I tried to explain to her how these villages have stood for centuries, testaments to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who call this place home.

As we neared Vernazza, the trail offered a postcard-perfect view of the village. The vibrant buildings, the bustling harbor, and the imposing Castello Doria created a scene straight out of a painting. I felt a surge of excitement as we descended into the village, eager to explore its narrow streets and soak up its unique atmosphere.


Explore Vernazza, a colorful coastal village in Cinque Terre, famous for its breathtaking views, rich history, and delicious local cuisine.
Lunch was at Il Pirata delle 5 Terre, a place recommended to us by several locals. It was a bit of a climb to get there, but the food was well worth the effort. The restaurant was cozy and welcoming, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We shared a delicious seafood risotto and some homemade pasta with pesto, all washed down with a crisp local white wine. I even indulged in a *cannoli*, which was absolutely divine. Sophie, of course, opted for the *gelato*, which she declared the best she'd ever had. Jean-Pierre was in great spirits, making friends with the owners and trying out his Italian.


Experience authentic Italian seafood at Il Pirata delle 5 Terre in Vernazza—where every dish tells a story and every view captivates.
After lunch, we explored Vernazza, wandering through its charming streets and soaking up the lively atmosphere. We visited the Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia, a beautiful example of Ligurian architecture, and then climbed up to the Castello Doria for panoramic views of the village and the coastline. Sophie was fascinated by the castle, imagining knights and battles as she explored its ancient walls. I always find it amazing how history comes alive for her in places like this.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at the Blue Marlin Bar. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind after our hike. Jean-Pierre and I enjoyed a glass of local wine while Sophie sipped on a fruit juice. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff and fellow travelers. It was the perfect way to end our day in Vernazza. A few people in the bar were talking about the Art Show in La Spezia, which sounded interesting, but we decided to head back to Monterosso to relax.


Discover the vibrant Blue Marlin Bar in Vernazza, where nightlife meets delicious Italian cuisine, creating an unforgettable experience by the sea.
For dinner, we chose Belforte, a restaurant perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The location was simply stunning, and the views were unparalleled. We arrived just in time to watch the sunset, which painted the sky in a riot of colors. The food was exquisite, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. I ordered the *tagliolini al nero di seppia*, which was rich, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Jean-Pierre opted for the grilled fish, which was incredibly fresh and succulent. Sophie, surprisingly, tried some of my pasta and loved it! The service was attentive and professional, and the overall experience was truly memorable. The restaurant was packed, and I overheard someone mention that the Lemon Festival would be held in Monterosso in May. I made a mental note to check it out if we were ever in the area at that time of year.


Experience authentic Italian seafood at Belforte in Vernazza – where exquisite flavors meet stunning coastal views.
As we walked back to our hotel in Monterosso, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delights. We had hiked through stunning landscapes, explored charming villages, and indulged in delicious food and wine. But most importantly, we had spent quality time together as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.


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 and climb the Scalinata Lardarina. I've heard it's quite a climb, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. We're also planning to have lunch at A Cantina da Mananan, a restaurant known for its authentic Ligurian cuisine. And in the evening, we'll be dining at Trattoria dal Billy, a place that comes highly recommended for its seafood dishes. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at Manarola Boutique! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, *ciao*!

I'm so glad we decided to come to Cinque Terre in January. Despite the cooler weather, the crowds were minimal, and we were able to experience the region in a more authentic way. It's a reminder that travel is not just about ticking off destinations on a list, but about immersing yourself in new cultures, connecting with local people, and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, grateful for the opportunity to share my travel experiences with all of you.

The train ride back to Lyon already seems far too far away... I think I will try to learn some more Italian before we return!