We had planned to include another ferry ride at some point in our stay. However, the local ferry that operates in the Cinque Terre has only operated for one day during our stay. There are no ferry wharves in most of the towns. So ferry has to nose into port, while the passengers unload from the bough of the ferry. Any swell makes the whole process very dangerous – so ferries get cancelled more days than not.
With the ferry ruled out – we have two walks planned.
The first walk, takes us in a loop from Riomaggiore up into the steep hills that surround the Cinque Terre and back into Riomaggiore. The highest point – we see spectacular views up and down the coast.
The second walk is to Manarola, the next town north. Before the walking trails got closed – you were able to walk the coastal route – the shortest distance between the two towns. An alternative walk, slightly longer, has also been closed. The only alternatve – walking three sides of a rectangle – first side up a very steep mountain – second side – a very flat section linking two mountains together – the third side down an equally steep mountain.
Again, really nice views of the coast and the surrounding countryside.
On our first walk we spot “Casino Royale” making its way north – I wonder if their trip is as nice as our walk.
We are rewarded with a swim at the end of our second walk..
Riomaggiore
Zoomed in, here is the red building outside the window of our apartment.
Montestry – our highest point in our first walk
Monestry at the top of the hill behind Riomaggiore
Casino Royale
Another town ‘Voltarra’ view on the walk to Manarola
Manarola, B & W stayed somewhere in this town – after they left us
Manarola
Well earned swim, down the boat ramp.
Italy 2019 