Cooking Class overlooking Portofino Bay
Discovering the Allure of the Ligurian Coast A Memorable Journey through Forte dei Marmi, Santa Margherita, and Portofino
Forte dei Marmi: A Shopper's Paradise
Forte dei Marmi is known for its beautiful beaches and high-end shopping, making it an ideal stop for those who love to indulge. Despite the overcast skies, we reveled in the town’s cozy atmosphere, strolling past boutiques featuring all the major European designer brands. While we couldn’t enjoy the sun-soaked beach, window shopping and soaking in the town’s charm was a delightful experience.
Hotel Principe Forte dei Marmi, and I can confidently say we have zero regrets about our choice. This boutique hotel, with its only 28 rooms, offered an intimate and luxurious experience. The hotel features lush gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant that tantalized our taste buds each evening. Breakfast was a cozy affair on the main floor, setting the tone for our days ahead.
The small gym served its purpose for a quick workout, but it was the five-star spa that we truly adored. After long day of exploration, we indulged in the spa’s steam and dry saunas, hot and cold pools, and other amenities. My friends, who joined us, took advantage of various spa treatments and raved about the quality of the services. One of the standout features of our stay was the exceptional service. Lorenzo, our concierge, went above and beyond to arrange a myriad of activities and dining experiences for us. Whether we changed our minds or had a last-minute idea, he was always accommodating and full of helpful suggestions. Our rooms were spacious and filled with natural light, adorned with luxurious bedding, plush towels, and cozy bathrobes, making it a perfect retreat after our daily adventures.
Santa Margherita: A Taste of Italian Tradition
Next, we traveled to Santa Margherita, where we checked into the Grand Hotel Miramare. This stunning cliffside hotel overlooks the breathtaking Ligurian Sea, blending traditional Italian elegance with modern comforts. Our room, large and beautifully appointed, offered a lovely view of the hotel’s garden, ensuring that even without a sea view, we felt surrounded by beauty. The Grand Hotel Miramare exudes classic Italian charm, with its spacious rooms and rich decor. After a long day of exploring, we appreciated the large bathroom and rejuvenating showers that felt divine. Though we didn’t utilize the concierge extensively, the staff was always ready to assist, offering recommendations for local restaurants and shops. One evening, we dined at a charming family-run pizzeria in Santa Margherita. The bustling atmosphere, combined with the delicious smells wafting from the kitchen, made for an unforgettable meal. The friendly service and authentic flavors reminded us of why we love Italy—the food and warmth of its people truly embody the spirit of the country.
Portofino Adventure: Culinary Delights in a Stunning Setting
Our journey culminated in the picturesque fishing village of Portofino, where we embarked on an adventure at La Portofinese. This experience was unlike any other—an educational, one-table dining experience perched high atop the hills, surrounded by vineyards and stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.
After meeting our guide at the charming, cobbled square of Portofino, we climbed into a tiny green vehicle for a thrilling ride up Monte di Portofino. The winding roads provided breathtaking views, but I recommend sitting on the left side of the car if you're fearful of heights—the steep drops are indeed dramatic!
Upon reaching our destination, we were greeted by a knowledgeable host who led us through a vibrant farm, where we picked plump grape tomatoes and marveled at the beauty surrounding us. The open-air pergola where we would dine was adorned with flowers and vines, offering a breathtaking backdrop for our culinary adventure. Our chef, Paola, guided us as we made our own pasta, shaping it into corzetti, and prepared Liguria’s famous basil pesto. The aroma of fresh basil and garlic wafted through the air, tantalizing our senses. Following our cooking session, we toured the olive oil production center, honey-making kitchen, and the brewery and winery. As we returned to the dining area, the table was beautifully set, showcasing a feast of bruschettas topped with homemade pesto, traditional tomato, and goat cheese with honey. Each bite was a celebration of local flavors, but the highlight was undoubtedly our freshly made pasta, dressed in the vibrant pesto we had crafted ourselves. We savored every moment, concluding with a delightful honey vanilla ice cream dessert that was the perfect ending to our unforgettable day.
Memories to Cherish
Reflecting on our journey along the Ligurian Coast, we are filled with gratitude for the experiences, the breathtaking landscapes, and the culinary delights we encountered. Despite the less-than-perfect weather, the warmth of the towns and their people, along with the luxurious comforts of our accommodations, made our trip truly special.
If you’re considering a visit to Italy, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring the Ligurian Coast. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and incredible food, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable memories and experiences to last a lifetime.