Liguria is a magnificent region of rugged and wild mountains and dramatic coastlines. The coastline itself is dotted with busy fishing ports and charming seaside towns with their typically Ligurian tall pastel coloured buildings.
The stretch of coast between Camogli and Portovenere features numerous spectacular walking routes along some of the finest coastal footpaths in Europe.
Liguria is well served by public transport (train and boat) which makes it easy to get around, and the lack of cars helps the area to retain an air of tranquil charm.
Ligurian cuisine is a unique mixture of mountain and seaside produce and local specialities include pesto and sea food. The region is also famous for olives and olive oil, as well as the local Sciacchetra white wine.
Early booking is essential and the best time to visit Liguria is either spring and early summer, or late summer.
Camogli
Just north of Portofino is the handsome fishing port of Camogli. It is built in typical Ligurian style and features tall multicoloured houses and a medieval castle.
Portofino
The former fishing village of Portofino is now one of Italy’s most exclusive and expensive resorts. It is a truly idyllic spot with a picturesque central square, a small harbour and a wonderful collection of shops, bars and restaurants.
It is immensely popular in the height of the season and as with all the Ligurian towns and villages, it is at its best in early or late summer.
The unspoiled Portofino peninsula offers some wonderful walks with the most magnificent coastal views. Much of the promontory is under the protection of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Monte di Portofino and more than 700 species of wildflowers grow here.
There is a dense network of well marked trails and you can walk to the 11th century monastery of San Fruttouso, or to the nearby towns of Camogli or Santa Margherita.
Cinque Terre
Five seaside villages with huddles of multi coloured houses perched on cliffs and forming clusters around their harbours. The attractions of the five villages are similar: colourful fishing ports, small coves, pebbly beaches and romantic restaurants. The magnificent coastal walks between the villages are now famous all around the world.
Much of area is closed to motor vehicles and so the area still retains a tranquil charm, despite the fact that it has become an extremely popular tourist destination.
Portovenere
Portovenere is a town full of Ligurian charm with a harbour and vividly coloured houses. The views from the town’s 16th century fortress towards the cliffs of the Cinque Terre and Lerici are simply stunning.
On the waterfront you will find the church of San Pietro which has its origins in the 6th century.
Lerici
A former fishing port, the seaside town of Lerici is a popular holiday destination. It sits on a lovely bay, in the shadow of a 13th century Pisan fortress. The pastel coloured houses of the waterfront mingle with numerous bars and restaurants where you can relax with a drink, and watch the world go by.
