Enchanting Cinque Terre

Back in Europe!

Sunset from Piazza Michelangelo, Florence

I can’t help but feel immediately at home when I am in Europe. The cool breeze feels welcoming, the architecture familiar, the food awakens my senses and street music fills my soul. I just returned from a three week long break in Italy and Greece and am still basking in its afterglow (Quite literally with a nice Mediterranean tan!).

I landed in Milan during the world renowned Milan fashion week and the weekend engagement party of the daughter of one of India’s biggest business tycoons. Passing the placards for the guests of the said party, I made my way to the second busiest train station in Italy - Milano Centrale. And then it began. A trip of a lifetime. Experiences I would treasure forever.  The sun shone bright during most of the trip. On other days, massive grey clouds added a beautiful dimension to the otherwise blue skies.

Over the next few weeks, we witnessed beautiful landscapes, rich culture, not to mention stunning art and architecture. We watched in awe as the Tuscan sun set into the countryside; only after enveloping Florence and the surrounding villages in its amber glow. In Pisa, the setting sun draped us in its warm embrace while we leaned sideways on the famous tower for pictures.  

Sunset at the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The colourful towns of Cinque Terre stood out against a cobalt blue sea on a hot, clear day. Atop one of the 13 towers in San Gimignano, rain lashed down shortly after we had marveled at the beautiful scenery. Rolling hills, castles, houses, vineyards and olive groves bathed in the October rain as we got dry with a hot cup of cappuccino. The lemon capital of Italy, Sorrento offered panoramic views of the Napoli coast on a very windy day. Cruising down the extraordinary Amalfi coast was an experience that I will never forget. Salty sea water splashed us as we gazed at the rugged coastline with sheer cliffs, colourful villages, terraced vineyards and cliffside lemon groves. Santorini left me completely mesmerized with its caldera views and whitewashed buildings against the deep blue seas.

Sunset at Oia, Santorini

Views from Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre

Tunes flowed in from a string quartet band as we enjoyed evening lake views in the charming town of Bellagio, Lake Como. In fact, music was a constant throughout the trip. One night in Florence, I came across a solo violinist, a string trio and a guitarist in a span of 30 minutes. An accordion player kept crowds entertained on a packed train to Pompei. At the Acropolis museum in Athens, I enjoyed my lunch listening to the melodic tunes of a harpist. As we made our way back from watching the famous sunset in Oia, a harmonica player kept the crowds entertained.

It is rare that you come across picture postcard scenery on a daily basis. So much so, it seems like a dream. Over the next few weeks, I will be covering some of the highlights from my trip.

Stay tuned.

Barot: The Perfect Monsoon Getaway

Imagine waking up to the sound of the river, melodious birdsong, and the perfect morning view. As you sit by the river drinking your morning cup of tea, a green carpet of Himalayan deodar trees beckon. Dark clouds rumbling overhead as you set out on a morning walk. Expect this and much more at Barot, situated 6020 ft above sea level.  

View from our hotel - Taj River View

Set deep in the Himalayan valley, Barot is a trekkers’ and nature lovers paradise. It is most famous for trout farming and a gateway to the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary. It is roughly an 8-hour drive from Chandigarh. You could also break your journey at Palampur or Bir-Billing for a night and then head upwards. Here are the top things to do while you are there:

1. Visit a trout farm – Although a major tourist spot, there was nobody there when I visited. It was interesting to see the famous trout fish at different stages of the lifecycle, from fry (baby trout) to sub-adult to a fully grown adult. They seemed to be enjoying each other’s company, as they swam together.

Natural waterfall

      2. Visit a waterfall – In the rainy season, you are likely to come across more than one waterfall here. If you are walking from Barot Reservoir towards Jharwar, you will pass a natural car wash, opposite which lies a lovely green pasture. Walk towards the mountain, and you will come across a small waterfall flowing down. This is a great place for a picnic or to just relax. Sheshnag waterfall is another popular attraction, though not as impressive.

        3.  Sit by the river – Take a good book or company and plonk yourself on one of the huge rocks by the river. There is nothing more meditative than listening to the gushing river while raindrops fall on your head. Take an umbrella, just in case there is a heavy downpour!

     4. Take a hike – With so many forest trails to choose from, it is hard not to go for a hike. Climb up a mountain and you are likely to come across a friendly local or two who are eager to help. Walk amongst deodar trees, breathe in fresh mountain air and forget your worries in this paradisal valley.

  5. Gorge on fish delicacies – Barot is a delight for nonvegetarians. From fish curry to fish pakodas to steamed fish, there is plenty to choose from. Taj River View Hotel has amazing food, perhaps one of the best there.

If you are looking for the perfect long weekend getaway, pack your bags and head to Barot. You will come back rejuvenated.

p.s: I love writing such pieces especially when the monsoon gods are showering us with their blessings! Like this morning :)