Like so much of Italy, Liguria is a land of contrasts, home to belle époque seaside resort towns in the style of Cannes and Monaco; dozens and dozens of sandy strands, rocky coves and pebbly beaches; the country’s largest commercial port and largest naval port; some of its most secluded stretches of coast, where lush forests of lemon trees, herbs, flowers, almonds and pines create sweet-smelling breezes; and terraced hillsides that produce an olive oil considered more delicate than those grown in Tuscany.
SESTRI LEVANTE
Sestri Levante is a small and rustic fishing village that is slowly developing into a favourite tourist destination in Italy. Approximately halfway between Genoa and La Spezia, Sestri Levante has its origins as an ancient maritime and merchant centre. Originally a small island with a promontory, it was later connected to the mainland. Sestri Levante is also mentioned by Dante (as “Siestri”) in Canto 19 of “The Divine Comedy”.
PORTOVENERE
Portovenere is an Italian Riviera village known for its picturesque harbour lined with brightly coloured houses and for San Pietro Church perched at the edge of the rocky promontory. Narrow medieval streets lead up the hill to a castle. The main street, entered through the ancient city gate, is lined with shops. Nearby is Byron’s Cave in a rocky area leading to the sea where the poet Byron used to swim.
The town, along with the nearby Cinque Terre, is one of Northern Italy’s
UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s usually less crowded than the Cinque Terre villages.
SAN REMO
San Remo (locally spelt Sanremo) flourished in the 19th century as a resort for Europe’s high societyI. Visitors should not miss the chance to explore the city’s historic center known as “La Pigna”. To see Palazzo Borea d’Olmo, the Basilica of St Siro and the Baptistery of St Giovanni.
The cuisine is excellent, featuring dishes such as Trofie, Ravioli al Pesto,
stuffed vegetables, Torta Verde, Coniglio al Vermentino and Sardenaira.