Backroads, Day 2

This infographic was very helpful in understanding today's options. And thankfully, our shuttle to Riomaggiore was a boat, not a bus. :)

Breakfast at the hotel before leaving (pretty representative of the continental breakfasts we've had every morning this trip):

Final view of Portovenere on the way out:

Our shuttle:

Scenery en route:

Dolphins (just trust me):

Approaching the first of the Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore:

There are many citrus trees here, as well as plums, peaches, and nectarines. 

Rick & Suzanne, Juliette, John, Nikki

We hiked a small loop around Manarola, through the vineyards in the hillside, and some of the group (John included) hiked a challenging route all the way to Corniglia. 

Cemetery (there are no elevators- pall bearers have to hike a lot to get here):

After our Manarola loop, we took a train to Vernazza. The trains are super crowded because this is a big tourist destination, so we packed in sardine-style. 

Watch out for guys in masks; they might touch your bag:

Vernazza 

Waiting for John to arrive after his long hike:

Lunch with Nikki:

Hiking to Monterosso:

A guy was selling limoncello and freshly squeezed lemonade from a literal hole in the wall under the grapevines:

Dinner in Santa Margherita Ligure at Ristorante Antonio (catch of the day prepared table side with olive oil, pine nuts, and potatoes):