Portofino and Santa Margherita

Well, you could say that my love affair with Italy started with a picture of Portofino.  Many years ago at an art fair I saw a photo of Portofino blown up large and placed on a canvas. I was enchanted, so I asked the artist 'where is that?'  Italy he said Portofino, Italy and I knew I had to go.  I mean really, look at this picture!

Stunning isn't it?  Yes it is a play ground for the rich, lots of yachts and expensive shops, but still worth the bus ride from Rapallo.  (It is not a very long ride) There is a hiking trail that will take you up above the town to get some great pictures (Follow the signs for Castello Brown and San Giorgio Church).  If you are in the mood for some exercise, you can continue to follow the trail that will lead you in the Botanic Garden and park area.  Follow that all the way around and you will end up back at the harbor.  There are lovely panoramic views on your way to the church and once you get to the Church.  It is work the walk.  Portofino is lovely, even if you go for just a 1/2 day to stroll, you will enjoy it.  It is fun to window shop, walk along the harbor, look at the boats & Yachts, explore the town.

Our waiter standing in the door of this excellent sandwich shop

There are lots of places to eat right on the harbor, but if you wander the streets a bit, you can find a lovely place for a Panini like we did:

A Glass of wine at lunch is totally acceptable

And this is what a Great Panini looks like! 

One of the best things about traveling in Italy is the food!  Make sure you try everything.  Most places you will stop and eat will serve you the freshest items.  The cheese & meats are to die for, so don't miss any opportunity to try them.  You will see all types of cheeses in many preparations.  If you see 'Baked Cheese' on the menu -- get it!  It is most delicious!

Santa Margherita Ligure

This town is like the little sister to Portofino.  It is as beautiful as Portofino in my opinion, but without the  'Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous' reputation.  We combined Portofino & Santa Margherita in to one day, and for us that was fine. Santa Margherita has some nice shopping, plenty of cute cafes to eat at.  There is a 16th Century Castle and the Basilica di Santa Margherita for historical site-seers.  1 full day for both towns is more than enough time -- unless of course you have your Yacht with you - then you may want to stay longer!

Another beautiful Seaside town.  Look at the water!  At the end of May when we were visiting, they were having an unusually late spring, so it was too cool to go swimming.  But this town is definitely set up and ready for beach-going vacationers.  I would love to go back some day to this part of Italy to enjoy the fine beaches.

We were about to spend our final night in Rappallo at the lovely Hotel Astoria before we set off for Cinque Terre.  The first third of our Italian sojourn had begun wonderfully!  Rappallo, Camogli, Portofino & Santa Margherita Ligure did not disappoint.  Transportation via bus was simple, inexpensive and fast.  I would recommend sticking to public transportation in this part of Italy.  The Trains & buses are clean and easy to access.  Ask for directions at your hotel, they will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Next it is on the train bright and early to make our way to Vernazza, in the heart of The Cinque Terre!