cinque terre, Corniglia
 

When walking between Corniglia and Vernazza I saw people who appeared to be staying there not just passing through. I could see why......beautiful views, picturesque village,quiet lifestyle. Where might they have been staying and how on earth did they get their luggage up to the town? We got the impression that the only way up there was to climb the rather steep and long staircase from the railway station. Is there a road up? Can you get a taxi? Anyone know what the restaurant situation is and has anyone any comments about the rooms and food at Cecio? <BR>I'll have to go back.

We stayed at the Cecio last October and really enjoyed it. The room was nice enough, great views and very quiet but unfortunately there was never hot water when I showered! There's a windy road as well as the 5 million stairs but I never saw a taxi. We met some ladies who got a ride when someone saw them lugging their bags up the road and felt sorry for them. <BR>We ate at the Cecio and liked it, although the fish we got was really small and rather expensive. We also had their gnocchi with pesto which was divine! Another night we ate at La Lanterna which was acceptable. We didn't see any place else to eat, but we were looking around 7pm so maybe some other places opened later. <BR>In spite of no hot water and limited restaurant choices, I'd stay there again. There were hardly any tourists around in the morning or evening surprisingly enough.

Thanks Paige...as I'm thinking of returning next October I can ask you how the weather is at that time of year...I was there April/May. <BR>Did you stay at the Cecio because of its price (is it cheap, moderate or expensive) or are there very few to choose from? Can you comment on any others? What did you enjoy doing most in the area?

It was sunny and warm during the day and chilly at night while we were there. We stayed at the Cecio because I think it was the only hotel listed in the book I had. Don't remember the price, but I'm sure it was pretty cheap. Nobody there spoke English, by the way. I don't think there are any other hotels in town but people rent out rooms. We hiked all over and explored the towns. Have fun!

Yes, there is a local guy with a minibus taxi. He can help you avoid all the stairs. We hiked 4 out of 5 villages in one day, but admit to cheating by skipping those stairs! We just happened on to him when he had dropped someone at the station.

PS - while having lunch in the piazza, we saw a group with a TON of luggage (unwise) arrive at one of the hotels there. A couple of local men hauled their stuff in a small wheeled cart & had to made an outrageous number of trips to do it.