Family Adventure in the Enchanting Cinque Terre

Monterosso's Warm Welcome

Our Cinque Terre adventure began today, and I couldn't have asked for a more delightful start. From the moment we stepped off the train in Monterosso al Mare, we were enveloped in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming coastal town. The air was filled with the scent of salt and the promise of sun-soaked days, a perfect welcome for our family getaway.

The train journey from Pisa was smooth, and even Astrid, who usually gets restless, was captivated by the changing landscapes. Maximilian pointed out the vineyards clinging to the hillsides, explaining how the unique terroir contributes to the region's renowned wines. I made a mental note to explore a local winery later in the week.

Our accommodation, Hotel Margherita, proved to be a fantastic choice. It’s conveniently located and offers a lovely view of the town. After quickly settling in, we were eager to explore.


Discover the heart of Monterosso al Mare at Hotel Margherita, where comfort meets convenience, just minutes from the stunning beaches and attractions.
First on the agenda was breakfast at Il Casello. This cozy spot, recommended by several locals, didn't disappoint. We savored freshly baked pastries and strong Italian coffee, fueling up for a day of exploration. Astrid particularly enjoyed her chocolate-filled croissant, declaring it the best she'd ever had.


Discover Il Casello in Monterosso al Mare for an unforgettable dining experience featuring exquisite Mediterranean and seafood dishes with stunning sea views.
With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to Monterosso's famous public beach, Fegina. The beach is easily accessible from the train station. The sight of the colorful umbrellas and the sparkling Ligurian Sea was simply breathtaking. Fegina is known as the largest and most luxurious beach in Cinque Terre. While some areas are managed by private beach clubs, we found a lovely spot on the public section.


Discover the stunning Monterosso Public Beach, where sun-soaked shores meet vibrant local culture in the heart of Cinque Terre.
The water was crystal clear and inviting, though a bit cooler than I expected for early September. Astrid, fearless as ever, plunged right in, while Maximilian and I cautiously dipped our toes. Soon enough, we were all splashing around, enjoying the refreshing water and the stunning views. The beach features a mix of sandy and rocky areas. I was glad I remembered to pack our water shoes.

The beauty of Monterosso lies not just in its picturesque landscapes, but in the warmth and authenticity of its people and culture.

After a couple of hours of swimming and sunbathing, we decided to explore the town itself. Monterosso is divided into two parts: the old town and the new town, connected by a tunnel. We strolled along the promenade, admiring the colorful buildings and the lively atmosphere. There were souvenir shops and terrace bars.

We stumbled upon Fabbrica D'Arte Monterosso, a charming artisan shop showcasing locally made ceramics. I was immediately drawn to the intricate designs and the vibrant colors. The Fabbrica D'Arte has been creating ceramics since 1982. Each piece is modeled and decorated by hand. I learned that they use unique clays and glazes. I ended up purchasing a beautiful hand-painted bowl, a perfect reminder of our Cinque Terre adventure. Astrid was fascinated by the artists at work, carefully shaping and painting the clay. I think she was inspired.


Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted ceramics at Fabbrica D'Arte Monterosso, where artistry meets the charm of Monterosso al Mare.
For lunch, we chose Ristorante L'Ancora della Tortuga. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, the views were simply stunning. It was established in 2007 and is known for its Ligurian dishes. We indulged in fresh seafood and regional wines, savoring every bite while enjoying the mesmerizing scenery. Maximilian and I shared the anchovy trio, a local specialty, while Astrid opted for a simple pasta dish. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting.


Experience authentic Italian seafood at Ristorante L'Ancora della Tortuga in Monterosso al Mare, where breathtaking views meet exquisite flavors.
After lunch, we continued our exploration of Monterosso, wandering through the narrow streets and alleyways of the old town. We admired the Church of San Giovanni Battista, its striped facade a testament to the region's rich history. The church is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. We also discovered hidden squares and charming cafes, each with its own unique character.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to head back to the beach for one last swim. The crowds had thinned out, and the atmosphere was even more peaceful and serene. We watched the sunset over the sea, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It was a truly magical moment, one that I will cherish forever.

For dinner, we had reservations at Da Eraldo, a family-run restaurant known for its traditional Ligurian cuisine. The restaurant is located in Piazza Matteotti. We started with the mussels, and then I chose the pesto pasta, a Ligurian classic, while Maximilian enjoyed the grilled fish. Astrid surprised us all by ordering the seafood risotto, which she devoured with gusto. The food was delicious, and the service was warm and welcoming.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Da Eraldo in Monterosso al Mare – a culinary gem with stunning sea views.
Before heading back to the hotel, we took a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoying the cool evening air and the sounds of the sea. Monterosso was bustling with activity, and there was a palpable sense of joy and celebration in the air. I wondered if there were any local events happening. I later learned that in September, Monterosso sometimes hosts the Anchovy Festival. We treated ourselves to some gelato, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

As I sit here writing this, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and the taste of the sea on my lips. Monterosso al Mare has captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings. We plan to hike the Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza trail and explore Vernazza [If Tomorrow]. I'm also looking forward to trying the local wine at Enoteca Da Eliseo [If Tomorrow]. Until then, goodnight from Cinque Terre!

I did forget to pack a power adapter, though, so charging my devices might be a challenge. I also wish I had brought a travel guidebook.

I’m so glad we decided to come here with the family. It’s truly a special place.

I'm already anticipating tomorrow's hike to Vernazza. I've heard the views are simply unparalleled, and I'm eager to capture the beauty of the coastline from a different perspective. We'll be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for the journey, and I'm especially excited to try the seafood at Belforte, which Maximilian has read rave reviews about [If Tomorrow]. Astrid is thrilled about the prospect of exploring another charming village, and I know she'll be captivated by Vernazza's colorful harbor and narrow, winding streets. We might even stop by Enoteca Da Eliseo, a local wine bar, to sample some of the region's best vintages [If Tomorrow].