It’s quite a hep thing to tell people that you went holidaying in Italy. Customarily to be followed by a gargantuan description, and if possible photo album, of the architecturally overloaded trip. In any case, there is only that much that most people can associate with Italy: Venice, Pisa, Rome and the Pope - not necessarily in that order. Some who have read beyond the tours and travels’ ads may even remember Florence, Michelangelo and of course Da Vinci. But mention the Italian Riviera and most will go - “Why now, isn’t that in France?” And therein lies the beauty of the little secret that I’m going to tell you about. A little paradise where you don’t have to pretend to be romantic - the air literally ensures that you become one.The truth is that most of Italy overwhelms with its man made beauty. You are awestruck by the sheer scale and detailing of the imposing and well maintained remains of the Roman Empire. So if you are indeed planning a trip to Italy, by all means do visit all the monuments, palaces and museums, which document the unparalleled cultural history of this country. But don’t forget to strike a few days off to visit the truly beautiful paradise that lies in the lesser explored region of Liguria in northern Italy.
Liguria is famous for its uncluttered beaches and little villages dotting the rugged coastline. Portofino is the most glamorous village down this coastline where you can easily spot a few celebs or at least their multi-million dollar yachts. But if you really want to get that heart racing and soul singing I recommend a walk down the path which links the five charming villages that constitute the unique ‘Cinque Terre’ stretch.
Cinque Terre literally means - five lands or villages. The unique thing about this group of villages, given world heritage status, is the extraordinary natural beauty surrounding them. Perched between the mountains and the sea, these villages offer astounding views of dangerously steep cliffs, powerful frothy waves and acres and acres of orchards, vineyards and woods. Undisturbed by the hustle of humanity - motorable roads are scant here - you can walk down the eighteen kilometers of unhurried coastline path which connects these villages high up in the mountains. The extreme closeness to the elements is sure to heighten your senses along with the delicious mix of the sea and mountain air! Only the whistle of the wind and the spray of the sea are likely to disturb your thoughts while on this path. Oh, and maybe, a soaring seagull. As you walk down, the play of the sunlight on the sparkling emerald blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea is sure to paint an enchanting picture you will never forget.
If you feel eighteen kilometers is a lot to walk, take heart, there is a train line running between the villages. Indeed, take a ride on the train just for the heck of traveling at the edge of the sea! However, if you stick to the path there are enough diversions and sitting areas to drive any muscular discomforts away. There is also one particular café, hewn straight into the rock, which gives you the delightful feel of sitting in a cove with a breathtaking view of the sea. Also on the route are a few graffiti walls - with some cute but distracting messages - best left ignored.
As for the villages, they are quaint little places with colourful homes on steep inclines. The stone paved paths through the villages are winding and lined with fruit and flower trees. Be prepared to climb, climb and climb some more while you are there. The exercise is worth it, for there are fascinating views that meet you at every angle even as you ascend. A church spire is likely to greet you at each village. There are also many other small architectural gems that will catch your eye while in Cinque terra. Like in the first village, Monterosso al Mare, where there is a massive statue of a man carved into the mountain, seemingly balancing it on his back. You should also stop at the small patches of beach in the villages, where you can either dip into the water or simply sit down and relax.
Within the villages you can get a sneak peak into the leisurely Italian life - locals running errands or relaxing outside in the village squares or in the cafes and restaurants which dot the landscape. There are also many wine shops- white wine being the local specialty. If you intend to buy some and don’t want the extra weight in your baggage, you can just ask for your purchase to be couriered home! In any case don’t leave without tasting the famous ligurian pesto - the pasta sauce with an added smack. The best place to sample the food is at the small eateries which you’ll find down in the lanes - these are usually less expensive and more generous than the places which are on the waterfront.
You will find many rooms for rent in the villages itself. However, be warned, choose to stay in them only if comfort is low on your priority list. The option is to stay at the slightly more expensive hotels in the larger villages or in towns like Genova or La Spezia which are only a short train ride away. If you are planning to travel during the high tourist season i.e. June to September, be sure to book well in advance.
So if you have made up your mind to visit Italy this summer, do include a pack a pair of hiking boots, and prepare yourself for a walk in the clouds!
Also by Hafta
- Off the beaten path in Toledo - February 26th, 2007
- Lazy French Holiday - January 22nd, 2007
- Mumbai Votes - January 15th, 2007
- Full House Mumbai - December 4th, 2006
- Dhoom 2: Action. No Satisfaction - November 27th, 2006