Solo Adventure Through the Enchanting Landscapes of Cinque Terre

Corniglia: A Village in the Sky

Today, I ventured into the heart of Cinque Terre, exploring the unique village of Corniglia. Unlike its coastal siblings, Corniglia sits perched high atop a promontory, offering a different perspective on the Ligurian coastline. It was a day of conquering steps, embracing scenic trails, and savoring the authentic flavors of this charming Italian gem. It felt great to stretch my legs and truly immerse myself in the landscape. I was eager to find out what made this particular village so special.


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

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Focacceria A piè de Campu. The aroma of freshly baked focaccia filled the air, and I couldn't resist trying their pesto focaccia, which came highly recommended. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. The focaccia was delicious, and set me up perfectly for the day ahead.

The first challenge of the day was the Scalinata Lardarina. This iconic staircase, with its 382 steps, is the only pedestrian access to Corniglia from the train station. As I started my ascent, I understood why Corniglia is often referred to as the 'village in the sky.' Each step offered a new vantage point, revealing breathtaking views of the coastline and the terraced vineyards clinging to the hillsides. I paused frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to capture the beauty with my camera. The vibrant colors of the sea and sky contrasted with the earthy tones of the landscape, creating a mesmerizing panorama. I can see why it is such an iconic landmark of the region.


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

The journey to Corniglia is as rewarding as the destination itself.

Reaching the top, I was greeted by the charming streets of Corniglia. The village exudes a tranquil atmosphere, a welcome contrast to the more bustling towns of Monterosso and Manarola. I wandered through the narrow alleys, admiring the traditional Ligurian architecture and soaking in the local ambiance. Corniglia is the only village without water access, and it felt like it belonged more to the hinterland than the ocean, which was quite a unique experience.

Next on my agenda was a hike along Sentiero 7A Corniglia-Volastra-Manarola. This trail promised a scenic journey through the heart of Cinque Terre, connecting Corniglia with the neighboring villages. The trail was well-marked, and I soon found myself immersed in the stunning landscapes. The path wound its way through vineyards and olive groves, offering glimpses of the sea at every turn. I could see the appeal of the Cinque Terre, and why so many people choose to visit the region. The views were simply stunning.


Experience the breathtaking Sentiero 7A hiking trail, connecting Corniglia, Volastra, and Manarola with stunning coastal and vineyard views.

As I hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on the ingenuity of the local farmers who have cultivated these terraced landscapes for centuries. The steep slopes were transformed into fertile gardens, a testament to human perseverance and harmony with nature. I made sure to pack enough water, and I was thankful that I did. The hike was challenging, but the views were more than worth it.

Lunch was at A Cantina da Mananan, a highly recommended restaurant in Corniglia. This cozy eatery is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Ligurian cuisine. I decided to try the poached tuna, a local specialty, and it was absolutely divine. The tuna was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were delicate and nuanced. The restaurant itself was charming, and I enjoyed the atmosphere.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at A Cantina da Mananan in beautiful Corniglia - your perfect culinary escape in Cinque Terre.

In the afternoon, I explored more of Corniglia's hidden gems. I visited the Church of San Pietro, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, and wandered through the Oratory of the Disciplinati di Santa Caterina, a serene and peaceful sanctuary. Each corner of Corniglia seemed to hold a piece of history, a story waiting to be discovered.

Before dinner, I stopped by Cinque Terre Trekking, a local shop specializing in hiking gear and souvenirs. I picked up a few postcards to send to Greta, wishing she was here with me to experience this beautiful place. I think she would have loved Corniglia, and I know that we will be back here together one day.


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

For dinner, I decided to venture to Manarola and try Trattoria dal Billy, renowned for its seafood pasta and stunning views. The restaurant is perched on a hillside, offering panoramic vistas of the village and the sea. I ordered the seafood pasta, and it was a culinary masterpiece. The pasta was homemade, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. As I savored each bite, I watched the sunset over Manarola, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


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

As I made my way back to Monterosso, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Corniglia had captured my heart with its unique charm, its stunning landscapes, and its authentic flavors. I was already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure in Manarola, where I plan to explore the Manarola Overlook Viewpoint and the Presepe di Manarola. I might even try some drinks at Terza Terra, a local bar. I'm keen to see what tomorrow brings.

Even though I missed having Greta by my side, experiencing Corniglia solo allowed me to fully immerse myself in the local culture and appreciate the tranquility of this unique village. I made a mental note to bring her back here someday, so we can share these experiences together. For now, I'll cherish the memories of this day and look forward to discovering more of Cinque Terre's hidden gems.

Back at Hotel Souvenir, I reflected on the day. Corniglia was definitely my favourite village so far. The peace and quiet was a welcome change, and I look forward to seeing what Manarola has to offer tomorrow. I'm sure it will be just as exciting, and I can't wait to share my experiences with you all.


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

I'm also hoping the weather stays as pleasant as it has been. The temperatures have been mild, around 15 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for hiking. I was lucky to have packed my rain jacket, just in case, but so far, the weather has been sunny and clear. Hopefully, it stays that way for the rest of my trip.

Goodnight from Cinque Terre!