| Introduction | | | | San Remo |
| This article concerns the Italian Riviera and why sailing | | | | Santa Margherita |
| in Italy is such a delight! Whether you choose to take | | | | Savona |
| the family, or prefer a romantic escape, this article | | | | Having read through those names, I expect your |
| covers the topics you should know. Beautiful | | | | imagination is running! Steeped in history, boasting |
| destination ports, the charming characteristics, festivals, | | | | wonderful beaches and moorings. From the hills above |
| history, cuisine and culture. You will really see why the | | | | the towns you can see the snowy peaks of the Alps, |
| region is ideal for chartering. After all how could | | | | whilst enjoying a sundowner in the warmth! |
| generations of Italians be wrong?! | | | | Festivals And History |
| Situation | | | | The Liguria coastline has been ruled by many cultures |
| Nestled in the North of Italy, near Genoa, the sharp | | | | through the ages. The significance of Genoa as a |
| Ligurian coastline rises to hillsides and in the distance, | | | | trading port is testament to this. In order to develop |
| mountains. To the South West, further along the coast, | | | | trade routes Genoa became a busy commercial hub, |
| lies Monaco and the French Riviera. The distinction | | | | ruled by the Normans, Romans, Barbarians and more |
| between the two Rivieras is that the Ligurian has not | | | | recently Napoleon. |
| lost its heritage and character. It is less developed, but | | | | The medieval festival of Torta Dei Fieschi is held |
| oozes Italian charisma instead. You can be assured of | | | | annually in Lavagna. Originating from the thirteenth |
| outstanding shopping in San Remo for example! | | | | century. It commemorates the wedding between |
| Characteristics | | | | Count Opizza Fieschi and Bianca De Bianchi. In mid |
| The area has supported a rich fishing community for | | | | August a huge cake is prepared, using traditional |
| centuries. This is one reason why sailing along the | | | | pastry. The cake is carried through the ancient streets. |
| coast is such an adventure! Leaving the main harbors | | | | This parade goes back to medieval times. Symbolically |
| behind and exploring creeks and inlets, is exciting for | | | | reuniting the six neighborhoods of Lavagna. Once the |
| the kids too! Portofino, Camogli, Lavagna to name just | | | | parade finishes, the cake is distributed to the crowds. |
| three ports. Give visitors a taste of romantic ages | | | | Cuisine |
| done by. Churches, colorful facades, and fantastic | | | | The food and dining opportunities are second to none. |
| cuisine. All on offer along mysterious cobbled streets. | | | | Simple dishes, made from local produce and wines. |
| Destinations Along The Way | | | | Served with stunning views. Drawing the sailing |
| Your bareboat or crewed charter can start from nine | | | | fraternity back, time and again. You can look forward |
| ports. Whichever one you choose, your assured of a | | | | to home made pastas, basil, mushrooms and olive oil. |
| warm reception! The following are where your | | | | There are two internationally regarded breads on |
| adventure begins: | | | | offer: Foccacia and Farinata. Made alongside dozens |
| Civitavecchia | | | | of others fresh from the oven. Fresh fish dishes, |
| Genoa | | | | pizzas along with meat plates, are presented with local |
| La Spezia | | | | wines. The wines offer a delicate flavor and the vines |
| Porto Santo Stephano | | | | are farmed along the hillside terraces. It's a good thing |
| Portofino | | | | your on a boating vacation! Stirs the appetite and your |
| Rapallo | | | | imagination! |