Solo Adventure Through the Enchanting Landscapes of Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore's Embrace

Today was a day of exploration and enchantment in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of Cinque Terre. I woke up with a sense of excitement, ready to immerse myself in the beauty and history of this coastal gem. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of the sea and the promise of a day filled with unforgettable moments.




Discover the colorful cliffs and charming streets of Riomaggiore, a picturesque coastal village in the heart of Cinque Terre, Italy.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma. The café was charming, with a lovely view of the sea. I savored a cappuccino and a pastry, watching as the village slowly came to life. The outdoor seating was perfect for soaking in the morning sun, and I felt a sense of peace as I planned my day. I remember Greta mentioning how much she loved small, family-run cafes like this back in Heidelberg; I made a mental note to find a similar spot when I return.




Discover Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma: A hidden gem in Riomaggiore offering exquisite wines and authentic Italian cuisine with breathtaking sea views.

Fuelled up and ready to go, I set out to explore Riomaggiore. My first stop was the famed Via dell'Amore, the Path of Love, connecting Riomaggiore and Manarola. I had heard so much about this iconic trail, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. After its reopening on February 14, 2025, after a long closure, I was fortunate to walk along this path.




Explore the romantic Via dell'Amore, a stunning coastal path between Riomaggiore and Manarola, ideal for lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Securing my ticket online was easy enough, and soon I was on my way. As I walked along the path, I was immediately struck by the stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. The path was well-maintained, with safety railings and benches along the way. It was easy to see why this path is so popular with couples; the views are incredibly romantic. The way the path snaked along the coast was very picturesque, and I made sure to capture lots of photos.



The history of the Via dell'Amore dates back to the early 20th century when it was used by railroad workers during the construction of a tunnel. Legend has it that it later became a meeting place for lovers from the two villages. Looking out over the water, it's easy to imagine sweethearts meeting here, carving their initials into the rocks. While I was travelling solo, I couldn't help but think of Greta and how much she would have loved to walk this path with me.

Sometimes, the most beautiful paths are the ones that connect us to others and to the breathtaking beauty of the world around us.

After my walk on the Via dell'Amore, I made my way to the Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore. Located in the upper part of town, the church dates back to 1340. Although it has undergone several renovations over the centuries, it still retains much of its original charm. The neo-Gothic facade is striking, and the interior is simple but elegant. I admired the 14th-century rose window made of Carrara marble and the various works of art inside, including a wooden crucifix carved by Anton Maria Maragliano.




Discover the historic Church of San Giovanni Battista in Riomaggiore, a serene landmark rich in culture and breathtaking coastal views.

I took some time to wander through the narrow streets of Riomaggiore, soaking in the atmosphere of the village. The colorful houses are clustered together, creating a maze of alleyways and staircases. I enjoyed getting lost in the labyrinth, discovering hidden corners and breathtaking views at every turn. I stopped at Cose't Riomaggiore, a charming souvenir shop, and picked up a few small gifts for Greta and my family back in Australia. The shop had a wonderful selection of locally crafted items, and I was happy to support the local artisans. I almost forgot my sunscreen again, luckily, I noticed it in the shop and decided to buy it so I don't end up like a lobster.




Discover the heart of Riomaggiore at Cose't Riomaggiore, where unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship meet the charm of the Cinque Terre.

For lunch, I decided to try Rio Bistrot, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views. I ordered the spaghetti alle vongole, and it was absolutely delicious. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the clams were fresh and flavorful. The view from the restaurant was incredible, overlooking the harbor and the sea. It was a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch.




Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Rio Bistrot in picturesque Riomaggiore.

In the afternoon, I continued my exploration of Riomaggiore, visiting some of the lesser-known sights and attractions. I hiked up to the Castello di Riomaggiore, a small fortress that offers panoramic views of the village and the coastline. The castle dates back to the 13th century and has played an important role in the history of Riomaggiore. I also visited the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Montenero, a small church located on a hilltop overlooking the village. The views from the church were breathtaking, and I felt a sense of peace and tranquility as I gazed out over the landscape.



As the sun began to set, I made my way back down to the harbor. The sky was ablaze with color, and the sea was shimmering in the golden light. I found a spot on the rocks and watched as the sun slowly dipped below the horizon. It was a magical moment, and I felt grateful to be able to experience the beauty of Cinque Terre.



For dinner, I chose Trattoria Via dell'Amore, enticed by its name and promise of local cuisine. I wasn't disappointed. The ravioli was divine, and the swordfish was cooked to perfection. The staff were friendly, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.




Experience authentic Mediterranean dining with stunning sea views at Trattoria Via dell'Amore in Riomaggiore.

Tomorrow, I am planning to visit Portovenere, a charming town located just south of Cinque Terre. I am looking forward to exploring its historic center, visiting the Grotta di Lord Byron, and hiking in the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere. I've heard that Portovenere is just as beautiful as Cinque Terre, and I'm excited to see it for myself.



My day in Riomaggiore was an unforgettable experience. From the romantic Via dell'Amore to the historic Church of San Giovanni Battista, the charming streets, and the delicious food, Riomaggiore has something to offer everyone. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to explore this beautiful village and immerse myself in its culture and history. It's moments like these that make travelling so rewarding, offering new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!



This trip has been a wonderful escape from my usual routine in Heidelberg. While I love my work as a freelance software developer, and I cherish the time I spend with Greta, there's something truly special about exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. It's a reminder that there's a whole world out there, waiting to be discovered. And as much as I enjoy these solo adventures, I know that they'll be even more meaningful when I can share them with Greta. Perhaps we can return to Cinque Terre together someday, and walk the Via dell'Amore hand in hand.