life in a once time: Levanto,Italy - Gateway to Cinque Terra

We have arrived in Levanto, Italy, gateway to the Cinque Terra(Five Lands).

Generations of farmers have worked to create a very unique terraced landscape of vineyards, olive groves and steeply terraced slopes that seem to defy the rugged coastline. Until recently, most of these small towns were inaccessible by car, only serviced by train or boat. It is a hikers heaven.

little signposts all along the way..

The best way to explore is by foot,gaining access to the villages by walking on ancient paths and flights of stairs. The trip from one end to the other takes approximately 12 hours of hiking. This does not take into account time spent stopping for an espresso, admiring the scenery complete with huddles of pastel colored houses or a quick swim in an intimate cove at any one of the 5 villages.

lots of steps..

..more steps..and gateways into little homes perched off the beaten track..

ancient walls and alleyways

dirt paths high up ...with panoramic views..

I have been promised by my children that in the future we will take a week and hike the coastline from Portovenere, here to Levanto. For now, I will have to settle for daily hikes to any one of the medieval villages perched high above us or to the neighboring villages. The pathway to it all begins at the end of the promenade...