I am in Vernazza Italy in a region called Cinque Terre. Vernazza is one of 5 quaint villages along the coast and, along with the town of Manarola, one that I have done paintings of.
The area is beautiful and I set out today to hike between these 2 enchanting villages. I took the long route starting from Vernazza to Corniglia, and then straight up and across the mountain along the top and back down to Manarola.
I took my time and enjoyed sweeping vistas accompanied by bird song, olive trees and the smells of all that grew wild and beautiful.
I stopped along the way in Corniglia for a great lunch and to rest for awhile before resuming what became a 5 1/2 hr. hike.
Then it was off again on a sometimes narrow and surprisingly dangerous trail until I got to Manarola.
Italian Gelato is one of the nicest and most delicious rewards after a long day on the trail (strawberry!) After exploring the town for a bit I had planned on a boat trip back, but the weather had turned windy and rain threatened ( but never really came), and the boats stopped running, so I took the train back to Vernazza and my cozy hotel room. Sadly I leave tomorrow to begin my journey back home. This has been a most rewarding sojourn and will stay with me forever.
