Rome Week 11

Melissa Tait checks in weekly from her study abroad semester in Rome; catch up with her every Wednesday on Trazee Travel.

I am a firm believer in no plan is the best plan. That is why over the weekend, I booked a one-way train ticket to Cinque Terre. I arrived early Friday morning, ready to hike between the five villages along the coast of the Liguria region. Unfortunately, the hiking routes from Riomaggiore to Manarola and Manarola to Corniglia were closed, so I decided to save them for last and start at Corniglia.

© Melissa Tait

I (accidently) veered off the blue route coastal path while hiking toward Vernazza and walked directly up the mountain. I was sweating through the harsh incline, but it was worth the incredible view of the Corniglia and Manarola villages. I found my way back to the blue path and trekked for two hours to Vernazza. I hung out at the square and marina, grabbed a café and decided to take the train to Monterossa. Here, I relaxed on the beach to watch the sunset. In the distance I could see the other villages only by the tiny glimmers of light. I was exhausted from my long day hiking and decided to head to Manarola to find lodging for the night.

© Melissa Tait

I woke up early in the morning, determined to check off the last two villages on the list. Walking through both, I was still mesmerized by the square colorful houses propped up by the hillside. My favorite views were by the marina where you can look up at the landscape and out into the Mediterranean Sea.

Sadly, it was time to leave the beautiful coast of Cinque Terre. I was glad, though, that I made the impromptu decision to explore some of the most colorful and breathtaking sceneries.