The Enchantment of the Ligurian Coast

General information

Destination
Florence, Italy

Program details

Following the roads suspended between sky and sea with medieval villages of fishermen tenaciously clinging onto the rocks admire the charm of the pastel colored houses from the sea, the bell towers and olive trees that lean out from the terracing, until discovering at the extremity of this embracing coast the magic of a village celebrated by Byron and Shelley. Driving through the ""azure motorway"" along a stretch of Tyrrhenian coast, we will enjoy the sight of the white marble quarries of the Apuan Alps, then we enter the Ligurian territory reaching Riomaggiore, the beautiful village of the Cinque Terre, characterized by medieval colored tower-houses, steps, alleys and small squares, between two steep hilly terracings. From here, you will take a stroll along the famous and romantic ""Via dell’Amore""*, a smooth and suggestive walk on the cliffs leading to Manarola, the small village of the Cinque Terre in the gorge of a high promontory among vines, olive trees and fragrant Mediterranean marquis.


We continue by uncovering Vernazza, one of the "Most Beautiful Hamlets in Italy", a jewel perched on a rocky promontory, which stretches out towards the sea with a small port against green hills, carved into terracing created by men. Admire the houses from the beach with the colors tarnished by salt, disappear among the lanes with dozens of shops and be tempted by the seafood cuisine in a typical restaurant. You will admire the beauty of these beautiful places from the sea in a boat** along the stretch between Vernazza and Portovenere: one hour of navigation embracing the arch of the beautiful rugged coast that welcomes the picturesque villages just visited. Portovenere is waiting maintaining the ancient promise of ""beauty"" encompassed in its same name. A gemstone rich of history and art placed in the splendor of a natural landscape that is unique in the world. Take a walk along the seaside and among the shops that sell typical products and local handicrafts then visit the Gothic Church of San Pietro (1198) decorated with the typical white and black bands, perched on top of the promontory and built on the remains of a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Venus, then admire the medieval sculptures of the Collegiate of San Lorenzo (1130) and the imposing Castello Doria overlooking the hamlet.



(*) In case the Via dell’Amore is closed, Manarola will be reached by train.


(**) In case of adverse weather conditions, the transfer will take place by minivan instead of by boat.



Meeting/pick-up point: Pick up from city centre hotels.

Duration: 12 hours.

Start/opening time: At 8am.

End/closing time: At 8pm.

Languages: English-speaking driver.