Romantic Escape to the Coastal Charm of Cinque Terre

A Seaside Awakening in Cinque Terre

After months of planning and dreaming, Hans and I finally arrived in Monterosso al Mare! Our adventure began in Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost of the five villages. The train ride from Genoa was scenic, and as we pulled into the station, the fresh sea air and vibrant colors of the village immediately captivated us. I was so excited to finally start exploring this beautiful region with Hans.


Explore Monterosso al Mare, the largest village of Cinque Terre, where stunning beaches, rich history, and delightful cuisine await every traveler.

Our first day was a blend of exploration, delicious food, and breathtaking views. We started our morning with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante Via Venti. Tucked away on a quiet street, this charming Italian restaurant offered a perfect start to our day. I savored a cappuccino while Hans enjoyed a strong espresso, and we shared a flaky, almond-filled pastry that was simply divine. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and friendly service made us feel right at home. It reminded me of the small, family-run cafes back in Alcalá de Guadaira, where the aroma of freshly baked goods always filled the air.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Via Venti in Monterosso al Mare, where fresh seafood meets traditional flavors.

Fueled by our delicious breakfast, we set out to explore Monterosso. The village is divided into two parts: the old town and the new town, each with its unique charm. We wandered through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, admiring the colorful houses and artisan shops. The scent of lemon trees hung in the air, a refreshing contrast to the salty sea breeze. We passed the Church of San Giovanni Battista, its two-toned façade a striking example of Ligurian Gothic architecture. I made a mental note to return later for a closer look at its intricate details. Hans, ever the history enthusiast, was already researching its origins on his phone.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”

Next on our itinerary was a hike to Santuario Nostra Signora di Soviore, a sanctuary perched high in the hills overlooking Monterosso. The trail was challenging, but the views along the way were more than worth the effort. As we ascended, we passed through lush Mediterranean vegetation, the air filled with the scent of wildflowers and herbs. The panoramic vistas of the coastline were simply stunning, with the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea stretching out as far as the eye could see. I couldn't help but think how different this landscape was from the urban rooftops where I tend to my beehives in Berlin.


Explore the serene Sanctuary of Our Lady of Soviore, a spiritual gem in Monterosso al Mare, offering stunning views and a taste of local cuisine.

The Santuario Nostra Signora di Soviore itself was a peaceful oasis. The ancient church, dating back to the 12th century, exuded a sense of history and spirituality. We took a moment to step inside, admiring the beautiful frescoes and religious artifacts. According to local legend, the sanctuary was built to protect a sacred wooden statue of the Madonna during the Lombard invasions. Whether true or not, the story added to the mystique of the place. From the sanctuary's square, we could see the promontory of Punta Mesco, our next destination.


Discover the stunning vistas and serene landscapes of Punta Mesco, a scenic gem in Monterosso al Mare's breathtaking coastal region.

The hike to Punta Mesco was even more challenging than the one to the sanctuary, but the reward was even greater. The trail wound along the rugged coastline, with steep cliffs and rocky paths. At times, I felt a bit apprehensive, but Hans’s steady hand and encouraging words kept me going. We finally reached the summit, where we were greeted by breathtaking views of all five Cinque Terre villages. The panorama was simply incredible, a tapestry of colorful houses, terraced vineyards, and shimmering blue waters. I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and gratitude for being able to experience such beauty.

After our invigorating hike, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We descended back to Monterosso and found ourselves at Trattoria La Scogliera, a charming restaurant known for its seafood. I ordered the grilled octopus, while Hans opted for the seafood risotto. Both dishes were incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. We savored every bite, accompanied by a crisp, local white wine. As we ate, we watched the waves crashing against the shore, the sound a soothing soundtrack to our meal. The gelateria of the same name was close by, so we grabbed a cone to share.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria La Scogliera in Manarola, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking coastal views.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to relax and unwind at Beach Bar Stella Marina. This lively beach bar offered a perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Monterosso. I ordered an Aperol spritz, while Hans chose a local beer. We sat on the terrace, watching the beachgoers and listening to the lively music. The bar's friendly staff and laid-back vibe made us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a busy day of exploring.


Discover the charming Beach Bar Stella Marina in Monterosso Al Mare, a perfect spot for relaxation and delightful seaside dining.

For dinner, we had made a reservation at Da Eraldo, a restaurant known for its traditional Ligurian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but we were quickly seated at a cozy table. I ordered the pesto pasta, a regional specialty, while Hans chose the grilled fish. Both dishes were delicious, a true reflection of the region's culinary traditions. The pesto was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the local basil. As we ate, we chatted about our day, reminiscing about the stunning views and delicious food.


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

As the evening drew to a close, we strolled along the beach, hand in hand, the sound of the waves a soothing lullaby. The sky was ablaze with stars, a breathtaking sight that reminded me of the vastness of the universe. We stopped at a gelateria for a nightcap, savoring the sweet flavors of Italy. As we walked back to our hotel, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this incredible day. Monterosso al Mare had exceeded all my expectations, and I couldn't wait to see what the rest of our Cinque Terre adventure would bring.


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 hike the Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza trail, and explore the village of Vernazza. I'm particularly excited to see the Doria Castle and soak in the atmosphere of another of the five villages.

Today was a reminder of why Hans and I love to travel – the chance to immerse ourselves in new cultures, experience breathtaking landscapes, and create lasting memories together. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our Cinque Terre adventure was just beginning.