Portofino is a quaint coastal village of the Italian Riviera of the Liguria region, embraced by the lush green of the Natural Regional Park and Marine Reserve. This splendid sea resort with its ample Mediterranean personality is yet another place cherished by artists and writers. The “Piazzetta,” meeting-up point for the international jet-set, is the trademark of Portofino, while the port, with its distinctive brightly-colored houses, reveals its long-rooted maritime traditions.
Portofino is a beloved destination all year round due to its charm, the fine cuisine of the Ligurian Region, and the endless cultural and nature itineraries to its proximity. Nonetheless, tourists mostly enjoy Portofino during the summer months, when the colors are as bright as the sun, and the emerald waters inviting for a swim.
The natural and cultural sights are endless, but a must-see is the Church of Portofino’s Patron Saint, San Giorgio, that dates back to the 12th Century; inside are relics brought back by sailors after the Crusades. Nearby, the Brown Castle is a fortress in the middle of a hanging-garden, characterized by partitions with lovely bas-reliefs, and architectonic embellishments in marble and slate. Stroll around the imposing lighthouse situated on Punta del Capo and visit the equally-interesting Gothic Oratory of the Brotherhood of Mary Assumed which includes a 12th-Century wooden statue of the Assumption of the Virgin.
Close to Portofino, you will find some of the most romantic destinations, Cinque Terre at just 31 minutes with famous Via del Amore and Genoa with its famous aquarium at just 18.6 miles away. Portofino is a perfect hub close to countless intriguing destinations on the Riviera. If you are in the mood for a trip nearby, the Medieval Abbey of San Fruttuoso, just a few miles inland from the coast will reveal a green paradise. Find time for a visit to the little theatre of Portofino, a favorite place for artists and intellectuals, where conferences and events both national and international are held. A stroll in the streets of Portofino’s borgo will reveal the artisan workshops where the town’s women sophisticatedly work elegant patterns of bobbin lace. For nature lovers, Monte di Portofino will be a rewarding hike or the Gulf of Tigullio in a boat.
The amazing nature of Liguria with its protected territory and more than 10 regional and national parks is the first reason why you should visit Liguria. Pristine nature, vineyards, hidden paths, and beaches await you to discover them. Here you will exercise your skills at hiking and mountain biking among the vineyards and olive trees or kayaking between Portofino and Santa Margherita.
The coastline of Liguria is unique while you will be amazed at the aristocratic Rolli Palaces. Taste one of its local wines and delicacies from pesto and focaccia to the chestnut and chickpea. Enjoy the Italian lifestyle at Portofino and Santa Margherita and at Portovenere you can attend one of the most beautiful festivals. There are many authentic activities that you can attend to at the beautiful Liguria!
The birthplace of the Roman Empire and Renaissance, Italy, showcases many of the world’s greatest artworks, architectural buildings and over the top gastronomical proposals. This is the country where the word “style” expresses the whole nation. Italy has more Unesco World Heritage cultural sites than any other country; among them are Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera, Michelangelo’s David and Sistine Chapel and da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
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