Idyllic Italy (with a little bit of France thrown in!)

There are some places that once seen are never forgotten. Cinque Terre on Italy’s riviera coast is one of them. Five colourful towns linked by spectacular hiking trails (with lots of steps,) quaint harbours, vineyards and the most delicious of Italian cuisine, including pesto, gelato, seafood and focaccia. 

I have wanted to visit this region since I had first heard about it, so when a friend said she was free and would explore with me, it was booked! Together we explored Pisa, hiked between the villages (including one that took us inland to Volastra due to the main coastal trail being closed because of a landslide,) visited Portovenere with its remarkable gothic cliff-side church (where we saw a quiet, simple and understated but nether the less beautiful wedding) and took the ferry to see the coastline from the water.

The scenery was stunning, the weather hot and humid, the food and wine truly delicious and the sea refreshing after our walking steps were done. 

Often with travel there are unexpected adventures and this trip was no exception. Our flight home was cancelled due to a strike in Italy, so we decided to hop across the border by bus to France, spend the day in Nice and fly home from there. We are so glad we did as Nice was just perfect for a day’s exploring, plus it gave us the chance to sample more delicious food. We loved rambling through the narrow and shaded streets of the Old Town, visiting the covered outdoor market and walking up Castle Hill for a special view of the area.

Today back at home as I sit writing this thinking about the memories of the last few days, of the trains, buses, ferry, planes and a random lift from the kindest of men at 3am when a taxi seemed impossible, of the food, drink, conversation and laughter shared with a friend, I know why travel remains my favourite thing to do. It’s why I have decided to continue on the road in the van for longer, as well as hopefully taking to the skies too. To keep discovering new places and crossing paths with more people is what makes me happiest.

So grazie Italy and merci France! We loved every minute. 🇮🇹❤️🇫🇷