Vernazza

Today we did another walk, this time from Monterossa to
Vanazza where the path climbs from 5m above sea level to 460m. I found the hike
a little easier today, than yesterday, either because I am getting used to the
steep stairs or my muscles are getting stronger. In any event, it was still a
challenging walk, because there weren’t nearly as many railings along the path
as there were yesterday, also the path was quite narrow at times and there were
several streams to ford – a technical term for jump over and hope that you
don’t slip and fall half way down the mountain. 

The challenges are worth it
though, because your rewards are absolutely magnificent views of the coast,
gorgeous displays of wildflowers from the terraces above and below the path and
the wonderful feeling of connecting with the people who created these paths
hundreds of years ago.

 There are always people of all ages and abilities on the
walks. When I set out I didn’t realize that I really have a significant fear of
heights, plus my balance isn’t as great as I would have liked, so I went
slowly, clung to the walls, where there were no railings and never looked down
on a sheer drop!

Vernazza coming down the Mountain

The kids just stayed on the beach and made friends from all
over Europe. Access to the internet has been difficult. There are only a few
cafes with wifi and their opening times vary from day to day. I tried paying
for some time at a small hotel, but the passwords were very cumbersome and I
still couldn’t get a connection. Finally one of the waitresses gave me her own
personal access code and it worked.

Marinated Anchovies

We’ve eaten out every night except for the night it rained.
The food has been excellent, however, the service again varies from restaurant
to restaurant. We have so far had only one bad experience.

Local Catch – Monterosso

Last night I had marinated anchovies as a starter and the
mixed grilled fish platter. There were five different types of fish on my
plate, including Swordfish, Cuttlefish, a small whole whitefish, another filetted
one I didn’t recognize and two grilled prawns.

Since the two walks that are the easiest are closed for
repairs, we will probably just take the train to the last two towns, Manarola
and Riomagiorre to admire their unique characteristics. There is also a ferry
between the towns, but since we have paid for the train pass, it makes sense to
use it.

Hope to have wifi today.