Family Adventure in the Enchanting Cinque Terre

Manarola's Embrace

Today, Cinque Terre unveiled another of its gems to us: Manarola. From the moment we stepped off the train, it was clear that this village possessed a unique charm, a blend of vibrant colors and tranquil seascapes that immediately captivated our senses. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, delightful flavors, and the simple joy of exploring a place where time seems to slow down.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Manarola, a charming village in Cinque Terre, renowned for its stunning coastal views, vibrant culture, and delightful cuisine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Nessun Dorma, a restaurant famed not only for its delicious food but also for its unparalleled views. The restaurant is perched on a cliffside terrace, offering an unbeatable panorama of the village and the Ligurian Sea. Fortunately, we arrived early enough to snag a table. As we savored our *cappuccinos* and *cornetti*, the rising sun cast a golden glow over the colorful houses of Manarola, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. Astrid was particularly thrilled, pointing out the various shades of the buildings and imagining the stories of the people who lived within them. Even Maximilian, usually immersed in his emails, took a moment to appreciate the view, a rare and cherished occurrence. I must admit that the combination of the view and the delightful breakfast was a perfect start to our day.

After breakfast, we strolled through the village, drawn in by the allure of Manarola's narrow streets and vibrant architecture. The houses, painted in a rainbow of colors, seemed to cling to the cliffs, creating a mesmerizing effect. We wandered without a specific agenda, allowing ourselves to get lost in the labyrinthine alleyways, each turn revealing a new and captivating perspective. We eventually found ourselves at the harbor, where fishing boats bobbed gently in the turquoise water, their hulls reflecting the sunlight. Astrid was fascinated by the boats, peppering me with questions about the fishermen and their daily lives. I tried my best to answer, drawing on my memories of growing up in Ísafjörður, a small fishing town in Iceland, where the sea was also an integral part of life.

The beauty of Manarola lies not just in its stunning views, but in the way it invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life.

Our next stop was the Manarola Overlook Viewpoint, a spot recommended by several travel blogs. The walk to the viewpoint was an experience in itself, as we ascended through narrow, winding paths, passing by small gardens and glimpses of local life. When we finally reached the top, the view was nothing short of breathtaking. From our vantage point, we could see the entire village spread out before us, a tapestry of colors against the backdrop of the sea. The perspective highlighted the unique character of Manarola, emphasizing its dramatic setting and the ingenuity of its inhabitants. Astrid, ever the curious explorer, was eager to capture the scene with her small camera, attempting to frame the perfect shot. I must admit, her enthusiasm was infectious, reminding me of my own early fascination with photography.


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 Trattoria la Lanterna, a restaurant known for its authentic Ligurian cuisine. We secured a table on their terrace, which offered a slightly different but equally charming view of the village. The menu was filled with local specialties, and we opted for a selection of seafood dishes. Maximilian, a fan of all things seafood, declared the *spaghetti alle vongole* to be among the best he had ever tasted. Astrid, surprisingly, enjoyed the fried anchovies, a local delicacy that I wasn't sure she would appreciate. As for me, I savored the *trofie al pesto*, a classic Ligurian pasta dish that perfectly captured the flavors of the region. It was a truly satisfying meal, enhanced by the relaxed atmosphere and the stunning surroundings.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria la Lanterna in Corniglia, where every meal offers breathtaking views and unforgettable tastes.

After lunch, we indulged in a bit of retail therapy at Manarola Boutique, a charming shop that offered a variety of local products. The shop was filled with unique treasures, from handcrafted ceramics to locally made wines. I was particularly drawn to the ceramics, their vibrant colors and intricate designs reflecting the artistic heritage of the region. Astrid, of course, gravitated towards the jewelry, admiring the delicate pieces made with local stones. We ended up purchasing a few souvenirs, including a small ceramic bowl for our kitchen in Hannover and a silver pendant for Astrid, a memento of our time in Cinque Terre. It’s always a pleasure to support local artisans and bring a piece of the place we visited back home with us.


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

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to simply wander through the village once more, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the slower pace of life. We stopped at a *gelateria* for a refreshing treat, savoring the creamy flavors as we strolled along the waterfront. The sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a warm, golden light over the village. The colors of the houses seemed to intensify, creating a magical scene that I knew would stay with me long after we left. We found a quiet spot on a bench overlooking the sea and simply sat there, enjoying the moment and each other's company. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity that can be found in the most unexpected places.

For dinner, we had reservations at Trattoria Via dell'Amore, a restaurant named after the famous path that connects Manarola to Riomaggiore. While the path itself is currently closed for repairs, the restaurant offered a lovely setting and a menu filled with tempting dishes. We dined al fresco, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the soft glow of the lights. The food was excellent, a mix of traditional Ligurian fare and innovative culinary creations. It was the perfect way to cap off our day in Manarola, a celebration of the senses and a testament to the beauty of this remarkable place.


Experience authentic Mediterranean dining with stunning sea views at Trattoria Via dell'Amore in Riomaggiore.

As we made our way back to the Hotel Margherita in Monterosso al Mare, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Manarola had exceeded my expectations, captivating me with its charm, its beauty, and its unique way of life. It was a day that I knew we would all cherish, a memory that would stay with us long after we returned to our everyday lives in Hannover. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit D.Ranch Horse Riding Cinque Terre and Chiesa di San Pietro in Corniglia. I’m particularly excited about the horse riding, as it will be a completely new experience for Astrid. I am sure it will be another day filled with adventure and discovery.


Discover the heart of Monterosso al Mare at Hotel Margherita, where comfort meets convenience, just minutes from the stunning beaches and attractions.

Tomorrow promises more exploration, with a visit to D.Ranch Horse Riding Cinque Terre and the Chiesa di San Pietro in Corniglia. Astrid is particularly excited about the horse riding, and I'm looking forward to seeing her experience the beauty of the region from a new perspective.

I am also keen to try La Scuna Wine & Beer to relax and unwind after a day of activities. Maximilian and I are looking forward to tasting some local wines and beers while enjoying the atmosphere of Vernazza. It will be a perfect way to end another day in Cinque Terre.

Tonight, however, I'll rest, and dream of colorful houses and the sound of the Ligurian sea.