Escape on an epic Italian Riviera charter, with Princess Yacht Charter.
Immerse yourself in the dramatic landscape of the Italian Riviera, one of the most beautiful stretches of the Italian coastline. The Ligurian Riviera is the name given to the coastline that runs between the South of France and Tuscany – an inspiring combination of rugged cliffs, verdant hills, and pastel coloured villages perched on the cliff-edge looking out over the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Not surprisingly the region is popular for charterers. There is much to see and do, especially by boat.
GENOA
The capital of the region and a worthwhile visit, Genoa is a bustling port – one of the largest in Italy. Its maritime heritage (Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa) is still very much in evidence. It is a hub for incoming cruise ships as well as commerce, and the old port has been completely transformed, offering a myriad of cafes, shops and restaurants set within a beautiful new façade. There’s even a movie complex and the city proudly boasts the largest aquarium in Europe. The old part of the city is a winding labyrinth of narrow mediaeval streets (Carruggi) giving way to open piazzas dominated by magnificent renaissance architecture such as the Piazza de Ferrari with its iconic bronze fountain and the Teatro Carlo Felice opera house.
PORTOFINO
On Italy’s North West Coast, Portofino is a tiny, painted fishing village and a must-visit destination for those visiting the region – especially by yacht. Its striking pastel coloured houses and picture postcard harbour lined with chic cafes and restaurants, have made Portofino a stylish destination for the international jet set where the famous Piazzetta is the central hub. A short stroll along the lanes will quickly uncover a host of boutiques, jewellery shops and art galleries, as well as local artisan crafts. Throughout the summer, Portofino is host to a number of festivals from international regattas to glitzy evening galas when the evening streets come to life. But if fine dining is more your scene, you can head back to the Piazzetta to share a meal and sip a cooling glass of the local Portofino wine.
CINQUE TERRE
If you are feeling adventurous, you can choose to walk the footpaths of the Cinque Terre (Five Towns). Other than by boat, this ancient system of coastal footpaths is the only way to visit the five fishing villages of the Cinque Terre, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. These hiking trails wind their way through olive groves and terraced vineyards offering breath-taking views of the Ligurian coastline and the harbours beneath. If not, you can always stay on board, and enjoy the individual beauty of each of the villages in the peace and tranquillity of your own foredeck.
LIGURIAN CUISINE
Ligurian cuisine is typically Mediterranean. Unsurprisingly fish dominates the Ligurian palate, offering rich tomato based fish stews alongside pasta and pesto. Anchovies and mussels are a regional speciality and especially tasty when marinated in white wine vinegar, lemon juice and olive oil. Pesto alla Genovese blends basil, extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, garlic and parmigiana reggiano, to a make a delicious pesto sauce from ingredients drawn from the natural landscape. And to mop up, another favourite, Farinata – a thick bread made from chick pea flour, rosemary and onion.
If you are tempted by an Italian Riviera charter, click here to view the charter yachts available in this area.
To find out more, call our Charter team on +44 (0)20 499 5050 or email [email protected]
