Romantic Escape to the Coastal Charm of Cinque Terre

A Day of Ascents and Discoveries in Corniglia

Today, Hans and I ventured into the heart of Cinque Terre, ready to explore Corniglia, the only village perched high atop a cliff, away from the sea. It promised a unique perspective and a different kind of charm, and it certainly delivered. With a hearty breakfast under our belts, we were ready to tackle whatever Corniglia had in store for us.


Discover the charm of Corniglia, a cliffside village in Cinque Terre, Italy, known for stunning views, local cuisine, and rich history.

Our day began, as all good days in Cinque Terre should, with a delightful breakfast at A Cantina da Mananan. This cozy little spot, with its charming decor, was the perfect place to fuel up for our adventures. I savored the *ravioli agli spinaci*, while Hans opted for a classic Italian coffee and pastry. It was the perfect start to a day that promised both physical challenges and culinary delights. We knew we needed the energy, especially considering what was coming next: the infamous Scalinata Lardarina.


Experience the stunning Scalinata Lardarina in Corniglia, where breathtaking views and charming Italian culture await you.

The climb up the Scalinata Lardarina was, without a doubt, the most physically demanding part of our day. All 382 steps of it! But let me tell you, every single step was worth it. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The vibrant colors of the Ligurian Sea, the terraced hillsides dotted with vineyards, and the charming houses of Corniglia clinging to the cliffs created a panorama that was simply unforgettable. I had to stop several times, ostensibly to catch my breath, but really, I just wanted to soak it all in. Hans, ever the supportive husband, kept pace with me, offering encouraging words and sharing in my awe. I even managed to snap a few photos, though no picture could truly capture the magic of that moment.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that require a little effort.

Reaching the top of the Scalinata Lardarina, we were greeted by the quaint village of Corniglia. Unlike the other Cinque Terre villages, Corniglia doesn't have a harbor, which gives it a more secluded and intimate feel. We wandered through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the colorful houses and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The village felt like a hidden gem, a place where time had slowed down, and the only sounds were the gentle breeze and the distant chirping of birds. We strolled along Via Fieschi, the heart of the village, peeking into the local shops and admiring the traditional Ligurian architecture. We even stumbled upon a tiny chapel, the Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina, with a ceiling painted to look like the sky. It was a truly enchanting sight.

Of course, no visit to Corniglia would be complete without exploring its culinary offerings. For lunch, we headed to Trattoria dal Billy, a restaurant known for its stunning views and delicious seafood. The climb up to the restaurant was a bit of a trek, but the reward was well worth it. We were seated at a table overlooking the village and the sea, and the view was simply mesmerizing. I opted for the *pasta nera ai frutti di mare*, a dish made with squid ink pasta and an abundance of fresh seafood. Hans, meanwhile, chose the *trofie al pesto*, a Ligurian classic. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful place.


Discover authentic Italian flavors and stunning coastal views at Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola, a must-visit destination for food lovers.

After lunch, we indulged in a little retail therapy at Cinque Terre Trekking. Though I had forgotten my portable phone charger at home, I wasn't about to forget to pick up some hiking essentials. This specialized shop had everything we needed for our future adventures, from sturdy hiking boots to eco-friendly sunscreen. I ended up buying a lightweight backpack and a couple of reusable water bottles, while Hans found a stylish new hat to protect himself from the sun. It felt good to support a local business and to stock up on gear that would help us explore the region responsibly.


Discover the Cinque Terre like never before with expert gear and guided tours at Cinque Terre Trekking.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Il Pirata delle 5 Terre in Vernazza for dinner. This restaurant had been recommended to us by several locals, and we were eager to try it out. The restaurant was bustling with activity, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. I ordered the *calamari*, while Hans chose the *salmon pasta*. Both dishes were delicious, and the portions were generous. As we ate, we reflected on our day in Corniglia. It had been a day of physical challenges, breathtaking views, and culinary delights. It was a day that had reminded us of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and connecting with nature.


Experience authentic Italian seafood at Il Pirata delle 5 Terre in Vernazza—where every dish tells a story and every view captivates.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Manarola, visit the Via dell'Amore (hopefully it will be open!), and enjoy the views from the Manarola Overlook Viewpoint. We're also planning to have breakfast at Nessun Dorma, lunch at Il Grottino, and dinner at Rio Bistrot. And, if we have time, we might even stop by Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma for a drink. I’m particularly excited about visiting Via dell'Amore, as I have heard so much about it, and I am looking forward to a romantic walk with Hans.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Cinque Terre is truly a magical place, and I feel so lucky to be able to experience it with Hans. I'm excited for what tomorrow holds, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today and to dream of the adventures to come. As a beekeeper, I always appreciate places where nature and human life intertwine so beautifully, and Corniglia certainly embodies that spirit.

The air is fresh, the stars are out, and the sound of the Ligurian sea is lulling me to sleep. Until tomorrow, *ciao*!