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Oh my, this place has my heart. It’s not quite like anything I’ve ever seen before and while I was only in this quaint little set of towns for two days, it really tugged at my heart string with it’s beauty. Cinque Terre is on the coast of Italy, it’s a series of five magnificent town just minutes (by train) from La Spezzia.
It’s picturesque beauty will absolutely take your breath away as you visit each town, you will see that each town has it’s own little personality.
During your time in Cinque Terre I recommend taking the hike that winds through all 5 towns (it takes about four hours), you will get some amazing photos and you can stop for lunch or shopping in any of the five towns.
A quick snapshot of the five towns of Cinque Terre:
1. Riomaggiore is the most southern of the five towns and I would argue the one with the best view! We found many local artists and shops here and explored the old town on the main street.
2. Manarola is the boat town, and has so many places on the coast to eat, drink and be merry. I had lunch over looking the seaside and I have to say it was beautiful!
3. Corniglia has a smaller and more secluded feeling, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have anything to offer. However, it is on top of a large hill and it can only be accessed via the train station or by climbing the 365 steps (one for each day of the year).
4. Vernazza, I’m told has the best night life, with lots of singing and dancing. I didn’t make it to Vernazza but I’m sure it wouldn’t disappoint.
5. Monterosso is where I stayed, and I would say it’s probably my favorite, it’s the beach town and the beach is absolutely beautiful. We stayed in a remarkable little villa just off the train line and ate at many beach side restaurants and stopped in at many local wine shops!
With the exception of Monterosso, all of the towns require quite a bit of hill and step climbing so if you have a lot of luggage stay in Monterosso or La Spezzia. Staying in any of the 5 towns is great, they are all easily accessible by trains that frequently stop in each of the five small towns. There is also amazing wine in this area, definitely find yourself a bottle, as well the seafood is something else, you have to try some!
Photos courtesy Janine Eccleston. Photos cannot be used or reproduced without express permission from the owner.
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About the Author
Janine is a tax specialist and personal finance blogger for Calgary, AB. She is actively pursuing her CPA designation while fighting her way to financial freedom. She is the Vice-President External for the not-for-profit Her Success and enjoys sharing her financial knowledge with her peers. When she is not at work or studying Janine enjoys traveling, baking, yoga and ending off the day with a glass of wine.
Website: mypenniesmythoughts.com