The Italian Riviera: Where Golden Sunshine, Azure Seas and Chic Sophistication Frolic
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Portofino Fall 2024
The Italian Riviera
One of our favorite regions of Italy is the Italian Riviera, and we find ourselves returning again and again.
The dazzling Italian Riviera is situated in the region of Liguria, in northwestern Italy. It stretches along the beautiful Ligurian Sea, beginning near the French border at Ventimiglia and extending to the Tuscan border near La Spezia. Nestled between the sea and the rugged hills, this iconic coastline is famed for its Mediterranean charm, colorful villages, and idyllic landscapes.
The Italian Riviera is home to a range of captivating towns, each with unique charm.
Here are some of the highlights:
San Remo - Famous for its music festival, flower market, and elegant casino.
Santa Margherita Ligure - A lively town with a lovely marina and promenade.
Portofino - Known for its upscale vibe, luxurious harbor, and pastel-hued waterfront (not to be confused with Positano on the Amalfi Coast)
Cinque Terre - A cluster of five picturesque villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Porto Venere - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning coastline and historic sites.
Ventimiglia - Located near the French border, and offers vibrant markets and stunning beaches.
Genoa is Liguria's capital and a historic port city with a rich cultural heritage.
PORTOFino
This was our second visit to picturesque, sophisticated, and chic Portofino. The town is a magnet for artists, celebrities, and travelers seeking its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Key attractions include the iconic Piazzetta, the Church of San Giorgio with breathtaking views, and Castello Brown, a historic fortress surrounded by hanging gardens. Portofino is easily accessible by boat, ferry, or smaller cruise ships.
Is it Portofino or Positano?? When I collaborate with my clients on their preferred itinerary, I find that these two coastal villages are frequently confused. Portofino lies on the Italian Riviera on the Northwestern Coast of Italy, while Positano is the postcard-perfect jewel of the Amalfi Coast in the southern part of Italy. Portofino is typically less crowded than Positano.
Santa Margherita Ligure
For visiting the Italian Riviera, I highly recommend a stay in Santa Margherita Ligure. On our fall 2024 visit, we enjoyed several nights at the Grand Hotel Miramare. Highlights were the wonderful views from the seafront suites, warm hospitality, easy walking to the historic center, and easy ferry access. The fresh, local cuisine was unforgettable!
San Remo
I’ll never forget waking up in San Remo for my first international luxury travel event, back in 2018, to brilliant blue skies, golden sunshine, and the azure seas of the Italian Riviera at the charming Grand Hotel San Remo. I felt like I had died and gone to heaven with these glorious views!
San Remo is a charming coastal town on the Italian Riviera, renowned for its mild climate, lush gardens, and vibrant cultural scene. It has a rich history dating back to Roman times and is often associated with its Belle Époque elegance, evident in its grand villas and Art Nouveau architecture. San Remo's connection to flowers is also showcased in the annual Corso Fiorito (in March), a vibrant floral parade featuring intricately decorated floats made entirely of fresh flowers. It's a delightful spectacle that draws visitors from near and far.
A Sunny Visit to San Remo - the City of Flowers - On the Italian Riviera
How I Survived Without My Luggage for 6 Days in Italy
Porto Venere
Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its stunning beauty, historic architecture, and its location on the Gulf of Poets, also known as the Gulf of La Spezia. It's particularly famous for its picturesque seaside village with colorful buildings, ancient churches, a medieval castle, and nearby islands. The town also offers a unique dining experience with fresh seafood, pesto dishes, and local wines.
We spent an afternoon here on a cruise (that’s our ship in the harbor). Despite the fall showers we were charmed by the winding streets, cozy dining spots and lovely views.
For more info on the stunning Italian Riviera
and to book your next trip Contact us!
Ciao!
Heather & Scott
One of our favorite regions of Italy is the Italian Riviera, and we find ourselves returning again and again. The dazzling Italian Riviera is situated in the region of Liguria, in northwestern Italy. It stretches along the beautiful Ligurian Sea, beginning near the French border at Ventimiglia and extending to the Tuscan border near La Spezia. Nestled between the sea and the rugged hills, this iconic coastline is famed for its Mediterranean charm, colorful villages, and idyllic landscapes.