The enchanting pastel houses of Manarola spill down a steep hill overlooking a spectacular turquoise swimming cove and a bustling harbor. The whole town is built on black rock. Above the town, ancient terraces still protect abundant vineyards and olive trees. This village is the center of wine and olive-oil production in the region, and its streets are lined with shops selling local products.
Surrounded by steep terraced vineyards, Manarola’s one road tumbles from the Chiesa di San Lorenzo (14th century) high above the village, down to the rocky port below. Since the Cinque Terre wine cooperative is located in Groppo, a hamlet overlooking the village (and reachable by foot or by the green Park bus; ask at Park offices for schedules), the vineyards are well maintained and accessible. If you'd like to snap a shot of the most famous view of the town, you can walk from the port area to the cemetery above. Along the way you’ll pass the town's play yard, uncrowded bathrooms, and a tap with clean drinking water.
