spotted: cinque terre.

buongiorno everyone! is it just me or are many folks venturing off to italia right now? i’m feeling a bit of wanderlust and would sooo love to return myself. there are many regions i have yet to explore, like the amalfi coast, naples, sardinia, venice, and milan. i, myself, have only been to rome, tuscany and one other area which was truly the most memorable for me: cinque terre.

cinque terre is a stretch of five darling little villages situated along the coast of the italian riviera: riomaggiore, manarola, corniglia, vernazza and monterosso al mare. it is a popular hiking destination, as the trails between each town take you through spectacular cliffs overlooking the sea, private gardens, vineyards, olive groves, as well as the romantic via dell’amore (a.k.a the lovers lane). for those who choose to skip the trek, there are trains and boats you can take, too. although each town may look the same, they each have their own individual personality and offer something unique. for example, riomaggiore is typically the starting point and has plenty of accommodations and restaurants. corniglia (my favorite of the five) is perched away from the water and is most known for its quiet setting and its wine. and monterosso allows cars and is the most resort-like with its chic hotels and colorful umbrellas lined along the beach. you simply just have to experience all five and embrace the charm of each place. and in italia there is nothing but good drinking and eating throughout. here in cinque terre you’ll enjoy the freshest seafood fill up on plenty of focaccia and pesto, as these two originated from this region.

so my friends, where have you been in italy and what was your most memorable experience?

• all photography by leslie santarina.