This is another installment of Marilena’s Travel Diaries, giving personal insight into her wonderful trips taken across the Bel Paese. If you wish to see each chapter of Marilena’s travel story then follow the link HERE. Should you instead wish to learn more about what we at Italy with Class offer in this particular region, get in touch via email and the team will help right away.
Dubbed the Italian Riviera, Liguria meanders along the northwest coast of the Bel Paese. As you journey through Liguria, you can explore the coastline’s nooks and crannies that host countless towns and villages that huddle at the foot of the Ligurian Alps.
Upon visiting, you will realize why Liguria has long been a playground for the international elite and an escape for generations of hard-working Milanese, yet still holds some of Italy’s best-kept secrets.
In our most recent trip, we discovered the origins of pesto, experienced golden hour in Portofino, and digested the breath-taking beauty of the Cinque Terre with a local expert who uncovered the region’s hidden gems.
Ambience and Decadence in Portofino
Having whittled away the afternoon’s golden hours in the quaint harbor, we took the short walk to Castello Brown (Castle Brown) for an extraordinary viewpoint of this famed fishing village.
And when the sun goes down and the lights come on, one can experience the true magic of dinner in Portofino at a restaurant beside the boats. For those looking to delve even deeper into the local culinary cuisine, pesto alla Portofino pairs the traditional pinenut sauce with a tomato twist.
Journeying outside of Portofino brings spectacular views and opportunities. San Fruttuoso, a tiny hamlet composed of a monastery and a handful of houses, is only accessible by boat. Here, those brave enough can snorkel above the submerged Christ of the Abyss statue that rises from the seabed.
From the sea, one can see a white lighthouse clinging to the cliffs. What many don’t know is that this lighthouse doubles as a delightful restaurant and cocktail bar called Il Faro di Portofino… luckily we know the way to this secret bar!
Exploring Cinque Terre
An early start is needed to beat the crowds at the Cinque Terre, one of Italy’s worst-kept secrets! Yet, our dreary eyes were soon awakened with a cappuccino, a fresh pastry from the local pasticceria, and the crimson rays of early morning sunlight skimming the water from beyond the mountains.
Whilst hopping between each of the five fantastically diverse villages is a wonder in itself, there is another way to see the Cinque Terre from an alternate angle… taking a private boat to cruise around the beautiful coast. During our adventure we were able to enjoy visiting the villages of Cinque Terre from the comfort of our private boat, avoiding the crowds of the hiking trails. Spending the day cruising along the coast also gave us the opportunity to enjoy some breathtaking views as the sun dove below the horizon.
Returning to Rome
And so ends another of Marilena’s Italian excursions. Whilst her journey through Liguria is over, the area lays in wait for new explorers yearning to take in its unique charm. Through our strong connection of contacts in the region, Italy with Class can help tailor your very own Ligurian vacation, from luxury accommodations and wonderful restaurants to hidden gems and unforgettable experiences. So, what are you waiting for?
