05.22.10

Two weekends ago, after weeks and weeks of rain in Milan, David and I took a train out west to meet Nathan, Lindsay, and Emerson on the Italian coast in Riomaggiore, the southernmost town of Cinque Terre.  We all arrived late Friday night and caught up on our rooftop patio over some vino. Unfortunately, the rain caused most of the trails to be closed the next morning so we started off on the only one open, Villa dell Amore, the easiest trail from Riomaggiore to Manarola.  After our strenuous 20 minute walk and a quick tour of Manarola, we took Rick Steves' "hidden gem" advice and stopped in for an early seafood lunch followed by a walk through the local vineyards.  

Emerson was such a trooper (as were her mules), willing to nap when needed and allowing us to wander Italy all day.  We ran into a cemetery boasting the best view in town and then caught a train to Corniglia.

To get to Corniglia, you must climb up 400+ steps so we immediately found a place, Terra Rossa, to rest and continue our sampling of the local fare.  The outdoor garden patio was covered in grapevines and kept us somewhat dry as we entertained ourselves and Emerson with funny faces.  

As we made our way through Corniglia, population 240, we decided to continue to support the local economy by patronizing the local gelateria (hence, my excitement) and the local weird wine shop (hence, the boys donning bibs and subsequent excitement).

After a full day, we finally headed home via train and enjoyed a wonderful meal, ready to explore the remaining two towns the next day!