Vernazza to Corniglia to Manarola

We take the short train ride from Monterosso to Vernazza and start up the hill below the town.  We are quickly rewarded with a great view of Vernazza, with Monterosso in the distance.

Vernazza, Monterosso in the distance

The trail continues up the hill and along the ridge overlooking the Mediterranean.

Up and along the path

Soon, from the highest point in this trail (208 meters/682 feet above the sea), we see Corniglia in the distance, whose name is believed to be derived from the Italian word (corno) describing the rocky spur from which it dominates the sea.

First views of Corniglia

The path continues, with musical accompaniment, descending into the city.

The path heads toward the city

With music

Corniglia grows larger and Monterosso grows smaller in the distance.

Corniglia grows larger, Monterosso grows smaller

We enter Corniglia and zip through the town to the trail out toward Manarola.

Entering Corniglia

Leaving Corniglia, looking down the coast toward Manarola

The path heads steeply up steps and trails to the ridge about Corniglia, then continues along the ridge and along the sea.

Heading up to the ridge

Views of Corniglia and Monterosso from the ridge

Manarola in the distance

We continue on trails and steps, up and down the ridge, through vineyards (where workers are picking the grapes) and the small town of Volastra, approaching Manarola.

More trail and steps

The terraced vineyards of Cinque Terre are the result of centuries of work and a culture intimately linked to wine.  This area, with it's thousands of kilometers of dry stone walls has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Vineyards

Vineyard workers heading to work

Manarola appears closer and we descend into the city.

Manarola appproaches

Descent into Manarola

Corniglia and Monterosso in the distance

For lunch, we reward ourselves with frito misto (mixed), pizza Emy (tomato, mozzarella, gorgonzola), and a small charcuterie platter.

Our reward!