La Dolce Vita on the Italian Riviera: The jewels of the Ligurian coast

Contents:

• Colourful fishing villages perched on steep cliffs: the magic of Cinque Terre

• Portofino on the Italian Riviera: a retreat for the rich and famous

• The port city of Genoa: The beating heart of Liguria

• Hidden coastal villages: insider tips away from the Cinque Terre

• Hidden Gems: The secluded coves of Liguria

• Between the mountains and the sea: the beauty of Liguria’s mountain villages

• Things to do in Liguria: Water sports & hiking with sea views

• Culinary diversity: experiencing Liguria’s delights

• Authentic Accommodation: Discover the hospitality of the Italian Riviera

Colourful fishing villages perched on steep cliffs: the magic of the Cinque Terre

No discussion of the Italian Riviera would be complete without a look at the famous Cinque Terre – five villages clinging dramatically to the steep cliffs and linked by footpaths. Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore captivate visitors with their pastel-coloured houses, narrow alleyways and breathtaking views of the deep-blue Mediterranean. Each village has its own unique charm and character. From the lively street cafés and sandy beaches of Monterosso to the romantic atmosphere of Manarola’s winding alleyways, every coastal village offers an unforgettable experience. Cinque Terre is a place of unrivalled beauty and romance that attracts visitors from all over the world and captivates them.

Portofino on the Italian Riviera: a retreat for the rich and famous

Further along the Ligurian coast lies the exclusive Portofino, a picturesque fishing village. Famous for its elegant harbour, luxurious boutiques and exclusive restaurants, the town exudes an air of glamour that attracts visitors from all over the world. Here, luxury yachts are moored alongside historic fishing boats, whilst elegant villas dot the hillsides and frame the harbour. The pastel-coloured houses and the clear, turquoise-blue water lend Portofino an irresistible beauty that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. A stroll along the seafront promenade, a visit to the historic church of San Giorgio or a trip to Portofino’s lighthouse offer ample opportunity to experience the charm of this coastal gem. Portofino is undoubtedly a place where luxury and elegance meet the rugged beauty of the Ligurian coast, making for an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

The port city of Genoa: the radiant heart of Liguria

Genoa, the radiant capital of Liguria, is often overshadowed by its famous neighbours, the Cinque Terre and Portofino. Yet this city is a true gem, rich in history, culture and gastronomy. The historic centre, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and magnificent palaces, enchants visitors with its medieval atmosphere. The Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Palazzo Ducale are just a few of the architectural treasures waiting to be discovered. Yet Genoa is not merely an open-air museum – it is a vibrant city pulsating with modern life. Via Garibaldi and Via XX Settembre offer a wide range of shopping opportunities, cafés and restaurants to suit every taste. From traditional Ligurian focaccia to innovative cuisine, the Ligurian capital is also a true feast for the senses. Incidentally, a particular highlight in Genoa is the “Ascensore di Castelletto”, a historic lift that takes visitors up to a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the port of Genoa.

Hidden coastal villages: hidden gems away from the Cinque Terre

Away from the well-known Cinque Terre, there are other charming coastal villages hidden away along the Italian Riviera that are well worth a visit. Camogli, about half an hour from Genoa, impresses with its colourful row of houses along the seafront promenade and its picturesque harbour, lined with fishing boats. Here, visitors can enjoy fresh fish straight from the market and sample authentic Ligurian cuisine in the local restaurants. Another gem is Porto Venere, a picturesque village at the southern end of the Gulf of La Spezia. The colourful houses and medieval churches provide an enchanting backdrop for a stroll along the coast. These coastal villages, away from the Cinque Terre, are less crowded yet offer the same picturesque beauty and authentic Ligurian atmosphere.

Hidden Gems: The Hidden Coves of Liguria

Off the beaten track, along the Ligurian coast, lie some of Italy’s most beautiful and unspoilt coves. These hidden gems beckon with their crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches and a tranquillity that is otherwise hard to find. One such cove is Paraggi Beach, a little paradise between Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. Here, visitors can enjoy the turquoise waters and relax in the sun, far away from the tourist crowds. Another gem is the bay of San Fruttuoso, which can only be reached by boat or on foot via a hiking trail. Here, visitors can explore the picturesque setting of the medieval monastery of San Fruttuoso and swim in the deep-blue waters of the sea, surrounded by the green hills and steep cliffs of Liguria. Bonassola Bay is also well worth a visit – a peaceful spot with a wide sandy beach and turquoise-blue sea, popular with locals. And then there’s the beach at Tellaro, a charming fishing village with colourful houses and a small beach that’s ideal for relaxing and swimming.

Between the mountains and the sea: the beauty of Liguria’s mountain villages

Away from the coast, nestled in the picturesque hills of Liguria, lie some of the region’s most beautiful mountain villages. These idyllic hamlets, with their narrow alleyways, stone-built houses and breathtaking views, are a real gem for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. One such charming village is Dolceacqua, near Ventimiglia, famous for its medieval bridge and the Doria Castle, which towers high above the terraced vineyards. Here, visitors can stroll through the cobbled streets, sample local wines and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Not far away lies the picturesque mountain village, a labyrinth of winding alleyways and natural stone houses clinging to the slopes. This medieval village is surrounded by olive groves and, in addition to cosy B&Bs, also offers what is known as an ‘Albergo Diffuso’ – a type of hotel spread across various buildings in the village, promising a particularly authentic experience. Not to be forgotten is the extraordinary mountain village of Bajardo, perched on a ridge at an altitude of around 900 metres. Bajardo offers spectacular views to the south over the Mediterranean coast and to the north towards the Alps. This is, in fact, the place where the Apennines and the Alps meet. At the top of the village stands a roofless church destroyed by an earthquake. It is said that a place of power and a Druid temple once stood here.

Things to do in Liguria: water sports & hiking with sea views

Liguria offers a wide range of activities that are sure to delight every visitor. The region boasts a wealth of walking trails that wind through picturesque landscapes along the coast and across the hills. One of the most beautiful trails is the Sentiero Azzurro, which links the five villages of the Cinque Terre and offers breathtaking views of the coast. The Alta Via dei Monti Liguri trail stretches across the entire Ligurian region and provides unique insights into the varied landscape. A popular walk near Camogli follows the Sentiero della Riviera di Levante, which runs from Camogli to Portofino. This walk offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and takes you past picturesque fishing villages, lush pine forests and hidden coves. For water sports enthusiasts, Liguria offers numerous opportunities for diving, snorkelling and sailing. The clear waters and diverse underwater world make Liguria a popular destination for divers and snorkellers. Sailing enthusiasts can make the most of the gentle winds along the Ligurian coast and experience the picturesque coastal villages from a new perspective.

Culinary diversity: experience Liguria’s delights

No trip to the Ligurian coast would be complete without exploring the regional cuisine, which is characterised above all by the use of fresh, high-quality local ingredients and offers a wealth of aromas and flavours. An unmissable highlight is the famous pesto alla genovese, a basil sauce made with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan and olive oil, which goes perfectly with fresh pasta. Incidentally, freshly made pesto is in a different league to the jarred variety we find in our supermarkets. Furthermore, Ligurian cuisine is also renowned for its use of freshly caught fish and seafood, which feature in a variety of delicious dishes such as fritto misto or zuppa di pesce. Furthermore, Liguria offers a wealth of local specialities, including the famous focaccia, a fluffy, oily bread that is often sprinkled with salt and frequently served with various toppings such as tomatoes, olives or cheese. This goes perfectly with a glass of regional wine such as dry Vermentino or fruity Rossese di Dolceacqua. Other typical dishes include, for example, Trofie alla Genovese, a pasta dish with basil pesto, potatoes and beans, as well as Farinata, a crispy chickpea pancake often served as a starter or with an aperitif.

Authentic accommodation: Discover the hospitality of the Italian Riviera

Liguria offers a wide range of accommodation to suit the needs and preferences of different travellers. From luxurious beach resorts to charming bed and breakfasts and cosy holiday flats, there is something to suit every taste and budget. A unique accommodation option that is becoming increasingly popular in Liguria is the so-called ‘Alberghi Diffusi’. These properties are located in historic villages and consist of renovated traditional houses scattered throughout the village. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local community and experience the authentic Ligurian way of life. In Apricale, the MuntaeCara Hotel Diffuso invites visitors to enjoy such an authentic holiday experience, as does, for example, the Relais del Maro in Borgomaro. For nature lovers, agriturismi – farmhouses offering bed and breakfast – provide idyllic accommodation amidst vineyards or olive groves. Here, visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside whilst discovering the local cuisine and produce. A fine example of this is Agriturismo Belvedere 9 in La Spezia, which offers not only stylishly furnished rooms but also panoramic sea views.

Conclusion: The Ligurian coast is more than just a picturesque stretch of coastline – it is an oasis of la dolce vita, where life moves at a slower pace and every moment is a delight. From the beautiful villages of the Cinque Terre to the luxurious Portofino, right through to the hidden coves and the rich history of Genoa, Liguria offers a wealth of experiences for every traveller. So pack your bags, go with the flow and discover the jewels of the Ligurian coast. Buon viaggio!

P.S.: Do take a look at our Travel Deals to find the latest offers on your dream destinations.