Solo Adventure Through the Enchanting Landscapes of Cinque Terre

Chasing Horizons: A Day on the Punta Mesco Trail

Today was all about trading the well-trodden paths for a bit of a challenge, and let me tell you, Cinque Terre didn't disappoint! I ventured off to explore Punta Mesco and its hidden gem, the Hermitage of Sant'Antonio del Mesco. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, a touch of history, and of course, some delicious Italian food. The kind of day that makes you feel truly alive and connected to the world around you.


Explore Punta Mesco, a scenic coastal paradise in Monterosso al Mare, where breathtaking views and lush landscapes await every traveler.

The morning started in Monterosso al Mare, where I grabbed breakfast at Ristorante Via Venti. It was a delightful way to fuel up for the hike ahead. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast: a cappuccino and a *cornetto* filled with *crema pasticcera*. Sitting there, watching the town slowly wake up, I felt a sense of anticipation for the day's adventure. Ristorante Via Venti, tucked away on a quiet street, was a great find. The waiter was incredibly friendly, describing the food with such enthusiasm that it was hard to choose just one thing! I definitely recommend trying their seafood ravioli and the Monterosso cake if you ever find yourself in town. The pear and cheese tortellini also sounded amazing!


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

With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I set off towards Punta Mesco. The trail began with a gentle ascent, winding its way through fragrant pine forests and offering glimpses of the coastline through the trees. As I climbed higher, the views became more and more spectacular. The path was well-maintained, but there were definitely some steep sections that got my heart pumping. I was glad I'd packed my hiking boots; they were essential for navigating the rocky terrain.

The air was crisp and clean, with a hint of salt from the sea. The weather in Cinque Terre this time of year is wonderfully mild, perfect for hiking. I could hear the waves crashing against the shore below, and the occasional call of a seagull overhead. It was a symphony of nature that filled me with a sense of peace and tranquility.

As I continued along the trail, I came across Case Lovara, a beautiful farm that has been restored by FAI, the Italian National Trust. It's amazing to see how they've brought this enchanting corner of Liguria back to life, integrating nature, history, and culture in a sustainable way. The farm is dedicated to vineyards, olive groves, orchards and horticultural crops in general, and it was great to see that 60% of the energy comes from renewable sources. The views from the farm were simply stunning, with the coastline stretching out as far as the eye could see. It was a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

Finally, I reached the promontory of Punta Mesco, the highest point of the hike. The panoramic views were absolutely breathtaking. From here, I could see all five villages of Cinque Terre nestled along the coast, as well as the promontory of San Pietro in Portovenere in the distance. I spent a good amount of time simply standing there, taking it all in. It was a moment I'll never forget.

The journey, not the destination, matters.

A short walk from the viewpoint, I discovered the ruins of the Hermitage of Sant'Antonio del Mesco. This ancient hermitage, founded by Augustinian monks in the 13th century, has a fascinating history. It was abandoned in the 18th century and later used by the Navy as a lookout and signaling point. Today, only the ruins remain, but they still exude a sense of peace and tranquility. Wandering through the crumbling walls, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like for the monks who once lived there.


Explore the scenic tranquility of the Hermitage of Sant'Antonio del Mesco, a historic church nestled in the heart of Cinque Terre National Park, Italy.

According to what I read, the hermitage was first documented in a papal bull from 1536. The site had been consecrated to Jupiter during pagan times, before being dedicated to Saint Anthony the Abbot, and later Saint Anthony of Padua, during the Middle Ages. In 1577, the peasants of Pescocostanzo restored the hermitage, which included a church and residential buildings. Apparently, the wooden statue of Saint Anthony was moved to Monterosso when the monks left in 1610, and it is now kept in the Oratory Mortis et Orationis.

After exploring the hermitage, it was time to head down to Vernazza for lunch. I chose Il Gambero Rosso, a restaurant right on the harbor. I had heard great things about their seafood, and I was not disappointed. I started with the *tris di acciughe* (anchovy sampler), which was a delicious introduction to the local flavors. For my main course, I had the *spaghetti ai frutti di mare* (seafood spaghetti), which was packed with fresh seafood and bursting with flavor. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was light and fragrant. Sitting there, enjoying my meal with a glass of local wine, I felt incredibly content. Il Gambero Rosso is known for its fresh seafood, with anchovies and mussels being staples. The pasta is handmade, and the seafood spaghetti came highly recommended. The restaurant also has a great location in the main square, overlooking the harbor.


Discover authentic Italian seafood cuisine at Il Gambero Rosso Vernazza, where every meal is enhanced by breathtaking views and local flavors.

In the afternoon, I decided to do a little shopping in Monterosso before heading back to the hotel. I stopped by Lanapo Cinque Terre, a local shop that sells handmade leather sandals. I've been wanting to get a pair of Italian sandals for ages, and these were absolutely beautiful. The owner was incredibly friendly and helpful, and I ended up choosing a pair of classic brown sandals that I know I'll wear for years to come. Greta would have loved these, I am sure. The designs are unique, and they use high-quality materials. It’s always great to support local artisans, especially those who are passionate about their craft.


Explore Lanapo Cinque Terre in Monterosso for exquisite handcrafted sandals and chic Italian clothing, perfect for your Riviera adventure.

For dinner, I decided to stay in Monterosso and try Trattoria la Lanterna. This cozy restaurant is known for its traditional Ligurian cuisine, and it was the perfect place to end my day of exploring. I started with the *zuppa di pesce* (fish soup), which was hearty and flavorful. For my main course, I had the *pesto trofie*, a local pasta dish with pesto, potatoes, and green beans. It was a simple but delicious meal that perfectly captured the essence of Ligurian cuisine.


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

As I walked back to Hotel Souvenir, the stars were beginning to twinkle in the night sky. The air was cool and still, and the only sound was the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. I felt incredibly grateful for the experiences I had today. From the stunning views of Punta Mesco to the delicious food and the friendly people I met along the way, it was a day that I'll cherish forever.


Experience the charm of Monterosso al Mare at Hotel Souvenir, your budget-friendly haven with comfort, convenience, and a friendly atmosphere.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Riomaggiore and visit the Castello di Riomaggiore and the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero. I'm also looking forward to trying some local cuisine at San Martino Gastronomia for breakfast, Il Buongustaio Cucina Casalinga for lunch, and Dau Cila for dinner. And who knows, maybe I'll even stop by Vertical Lounge Bar for a drink in the evening.

Before I turn in for the night, I think I will take a look at the photos I took today. I am still kicking myself for forgetting to pack sunscreen before I left Germany. And I really should have brushed up on my Italian with an Italian phrasebook before I came here. I am finding it difficult to understand the locals sometimes.

But as I reflect on my time here so far, I realize that travel isn't just about ticking off sights on a list; it's about immersing yourself in the local culture, savoring the flavors of the region, and connecting with the people who call this place home. And in that respect, Cinque Terre has exceeded all of my expectations.

The train to Pisa awaits on Saturday, marking the end of this Italian chapter. But as I drift off to sleep, I know that the memories I've made here will stay with me long after I've left.

Until tomorrow!