Image via WikipediaThere are five villages that make up Italy's Cinque Terre, or five lands. Noted for incredible natural beauty, laid-back ambience, and good local wine, the region is no longer undiscovered. But it's still a delightful place to get away from it all and enjoy the Italian Good Life.Manarola is one of the most attractive of the villages, especially when seen from the hiking path on the way from Corniglia. The town's pastel houses are stacked vertically against the local black rock. Beneath them, the shimmering bay is a great spot for a swim.
Manarola hotels are some of the nicest in the Cinque Terre, and most of them offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Today, you can get to Manarola by train or boat from Genoa or La Spezia. If you prefer to drive, there's a parking lot with a shuttle that will take you down to the town.
There's not a lot to do here. The local citizenry fishes, makes wine, or produces olive oil, and you can taste the fruits of their labors almost anywhere. The heart of town is the marina, and there are a couple of good beaches and places to swim, although the beaches here aren't sandy.
Piazza Capellini, the new main square, is a popular gathering spot and a good place to watch the locals. There's a small museum that describes the wine-making process. And the church in the upper part of town has a pair of Renaissance paintings and a bell tower.
During your visit, take time to walk through the surrounding vineyards and lemon groves. The hike to the old cemetery at Punta Bonfiglio is also worth it for the gorgeous views.
Manarola hotels and places to stay.
One of the most appealing hotels in the Cinque Terre, La Torretta has 13 nicely outfitted rooms with plasma TVs, leather furniture, and tile floors. The family-run hotel occupies a 17th-century building with a tower, and many rooms have terraces. Those without still have views.
If you want to be right on the water, the best choice is the Hotel Marina Piccola, which also has a good restaurant. The fishing boats and rocky beach are practically outside your window. There are two buildings and the accommodations here are clean and comfortable.
The ten rooms at Ca d'Andrean are clean, but basic with simple furnishings and tile floors. Request a room with a balcony for the best views. You can have your breakfast in the property's pretty lemon grove.
Find more Manarola hotels, or Vernazza hotels.
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