We started out early this morning on a train ride that included a transfer in Pisa to reach the northwest coast at La Spezia. From there we took a local train that dropped us off at three of the five charming villages know as the Cinque (five) Terre (lands). Beginning in Monterosso al Mare we strolled along the beach front of the Ligurian Sea. Now that the weather is turning a little cooler there were very few sunbathers on the beach and in the water. As always there are hundreds of tourists in the Cinque Terre as it has become one of Italy's top attractions (thanks to Rick Steves it is said). Hopping off the train again we found ourselves in the largest and most popular of the villages - Vernazza. More shops and restaurants here, so we spent about three hours leaving behind our Euros ($) with the shop keepers there. Finally we stopped in Manarola which is the most picturesque of the villages and walked along the sea cliffs to a great spot for photos (you'll see!) . We enjoyed late afternoon drinks there including a special dessert wine that is made only in the Cinque Terre from a variety of grapes t grown on the terraced hillsides. This day is always a highlight on the tour and it's worth the two and a half hour train ride home after such a beautiful day. There are lots of pictures today so sit back and enjoy your mini-tour. More later . . .
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