Sunday, December 11, 2011

Monterosso al Mare

These pictures also were taken in Cinque Terre, specifically on the hike from Vernazza to the northernmost town, Monterosso al Mare.  The walk going this direction is quite pleasant, not least because of the amazing views, but also because you enjoy a long downward slope right before the town.  In contrast, the people coming the other direction (towards Vernazza) looked exhausted just a short distance into their trip; we didn't have the heart to explain just how much farther they had to go.

On a side note, Monterosso and Vernazza were both devastated by terrible storms and resulting mudslides this fall, shortly after we left.  I sincerely hope they're able to clean and rebuild, and welcome tourists again, since--for better or for worse--tourism now seems to be the lifeblood of these towns.  If you are ever able to go, I think it's well worth the time to visit and stay awhile.  And, if you ever have an opportunity to eat dinner in Monterosso, look for Ristorante Via Venti and try the fish ravioli.  My tastebuds are still dreaming of it, three months after the fact.


Looking back on Vernazza from the path to Monterosso.



You can just see the shore and buildings of Monterosso in the distance--tantalizing, and it seems close, but there's still a long way to walk.



Now you're almost there.



Monterosso is the only "flat" town among the Cinque Terre, and hence the only one with a true beach--a lovely one, at that.



Homes, restaurants, and shops stretch back from the shore into the town.


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