Levanto To Monterosso
Today was a pleasant start for this week's trek. Isabelle, our guide, said we had to be slowly eased into the harder hiking days. We trekked for 14 km and approximately 450 meters ascent (then obviously back down) with a few side trips to see medieval churches, a castle and the old parts of the villages.
We kicked off in Levanto, and hiked to Monterosso, the first of the Cinque Terre towns. Our group was comprised of 10 people plus myself and the guide, two 20, 30, 40, 60 & 70 plus year olds. I have to immediately say, the 75 year man, Don, was incredibly fit and experienced, and I was impressed. He was as fit as Mr Kim from my Everest adventure and could easily outlast and go faster than the younger members of our team. He lives in Yosemite, so hiking is just part of his daily routine. Oh, and he's also ran a 100 marathons.
Most of the group were experienced trekkers (it is organised by an adventure trekking company, KE, so that isn't surprising.). I was just happy climbing the hills, taking in the beautiful views, snacking on salami, cheese, focaccia, and of course, gelato! It was quite a relaxing and fattening day!
Pesto is the Ligurian speciality. It's everywhere!
Levanto is part of La Spezia, here in Liguria. It is a famous seaside resort and many prominent families in the areas of Turin have summer homes along the coast. Hiking paths are alongside olive groves, vineyards, and medieval buildings. The town is a popular starting point to see places along the Italian Riviera. The walk to Monterossa takes you through the National Park of Cinque Terre.
Along the path to Monterosso.
Monterosso is the largest of the five coastal towns of the Cinque Terre. It's comprised of two parts, the new town is where all the tourists come to enjoy the sea and restaurants. The old town has castle ruins, narrow medieval streets and coloured houses. Gosh, I hope I don't have to say the same thing for all the towns!
To end the day in Monterosso I had to have yet another gelato. After the pistachio, lemon and watermelon, the bacio (chocolate and hazlenut) wins hands down. Yum! Tomorrow is another day and another flavour!
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