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Published: June 16th 2017
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In Vernazza
Started off a little chilly before the hike. we warmed up fast. Geo: 44.3522, 9.2308
After a delicious buffet breakfast at our hotel, we hopped on the train to vernazzo. It promised to be a gorgeous day, sunny and high of 60. Perfect hiking weather. we are going to do the big hike from the town of Vernazza to the town of Monterossa. It is a rugged 2 hour hike with lots of climbing, steps, narrow pathways and great views.
We shopped around a bit in Vernazza and then hit the trail. Though steep, it wasn't as difficult as when we did it several years ago, but we did all 4 hikes the same day last time. Speed touring. One of the reasons we came back with more time.
We warmed up quickly and shed our jackets. It was much more fun this time, taking the hike at a leisurely pace and enjoying the views. It was also much more crowded on the trail. I think we are more into the tourist season this time. Along the way, in the middle of nowhere, there is a sweet little old man selling jewelry that he makes. It was exquisite and very reasonable. Dee and I both bought some. I even bargained him down. Gary would have been
proud of me. Once we stopped to buy, then all the women started stopping. I think he liked us. A great break in the hike.
We finished in the town of Monterossa and went to a Rick Steve's recommended restaurant for an excellent late lunch. The italians are a little more flexible than the french about mealtimes. One of the waitresses was from New Jersey (she fell in love with an Italian) so we had plenty of ice. the focaccia was amazing, with three dipping sauces: pesto, olive oil and olive spread. My lasagna was perfect and I got my favorite chocolate soufflé for dessert. Dot had vegetable ravioli in an a walnut cream sauce.. All of the breads were great. Mary had a disgusting anchovy spaghetti. She liked it. I'll put food pics up in a separate entry for the foodies.
Of course, gelato afterwards. We had a little (very little) life left in us, so we took the train to the town of Siestre Levonta to tour around and look for one of Rick's recommended gelato shops. Getting off the train, it looked like a crappy town, but following Rick's directions to the gelato, we ended up in a charming
pedestrian area with lots of cute shops. The gelato was a big hit. In a single scoop, they will give you two different flavors, whip cream and toppings of your choice. Awesome.
Too stuffed to go out for a big dinner. Dee went out ON HER OWN in Italy and picked us up some focacio bread, olive oil and cheese for dinner. It was perfect. Back out to stroll along the riverfront in search of gelato, enjoying the full moon, and everyone but us walking their dogs.
Another good day.
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Maggie
non-member comment
I have been negligent in adding my comments but have thoroughly enjoyed the photos/commentary. Being a veteran of "the hike" myself, I'm sure you enjoyed the spectacular views and natural beauty of Italia. Divertirsi!