Cinque Terre - Entering Manarola

Down the Lover's Path we went until Manarola rose up before us. The next of the five villages, Manarola is considered to be the oldest and is known for its Church of San Lorenzo, its fishing industry, and its wine.

When I say industry, it's not in the sense that you would normally think. According to our guide, there is approximately one appointed fisherman per town. How he manages to catch all of the fish that goes around the restaurants makes me question this.

The first thing you see on the approach is a few colorful houses built into the mountainous landscape. The train station to the left seems unreal with the perfectly blue water that laps up against the platform's wall.

Manarola in the mountain. 

The train station. 

Before getting our two hours of free time in the town (for a nice Italian lunch), we went on a hike. And when I say hike, I truly mean it. Think of hills, ground that falls out from beneath your feet along the stacked vineyards (I have the bruises and scrapes to prove it), and narrow stairs.

The vantage points, however, were magnificent.

Swimming pools Cinque Terre-style?

Manarola behind me!

Me, Abby, Jessie, and Lily!