Village Italy with Rick Steves
Cinque Terra
Where
Orange
Hues
Contrast
The
Beautiful
Blue
Sea....
Breathtaking
Our bus delivered us to
Porto Venere on the most beautiful day
and we had time for lunch and exploration.
The boat ride along the coast
provided gorgeous views.
We disembarked in Monterroso
and had time for a gelato
before catching the train
to our base, Albergo Primavera, in Levanto.
A side trip before arrival took us to the
Carrara Marble Quarries.
Altogether it made for a long day
so the prosecco and snacks
were most welcome when we arrived at the hotel.
We had time to freshen up
before digging into our magnificent seafood feast.
What We Did...
The morning after arriving we met with some of the others from the group for a hike between two of the villages. We took the train to Corniglia and hiked to Vernazza (where you can refill your empty water bottles.) It was hot at times but the morning shade provided some cool air. We then took the train back to Levanto and spent the afternoon on the beach: sunning, collecting shells, and drinking spritzes. We met up with more tour friends for dinner together.
One of the perils of not staying hydrated is a UTI. I learned that if you can describe your symptoms of illness clearly, you can save a trip to the doctor's office. The pharmacists have a certain amount of leeway to dispense prescription medications. However, it is best to be presented by someone they know such as your guide or hotel staff.
