ITALY
Cervo
Idyllic Italian Riviera With its mild climate, extravagant villas and stunning scenery, the Italian Riviera is just as charming as its more famous neighbour, the French Riviera. Mountainsides strewn with olive groves and vineyards tumble towards the shimmering seas, with attractive harbour villages and medieval towns waiting to be discovered. From ancient history and architecture to ultra-modern opulence, there’s so much to explore in this charming destination. Located near the French/Italian border, our hotels are an ideal base to enjoy some of the most celebrated, sun-kissed and flower-strewn shores and sparkling jewels. We explore the Riviera dei Fiori (Riviera of Flowers), running from Ventimiglia in the west to Cervo in the east, and discover the glamorous Principality of Monaco. SUGGESTED ITINERARY Day 1 Arrival We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner. Day 2 Èze & Monaco This morning we hop over the border into France to the ancient fortified hilltop village of Èze, with magnificent views overlooking the sea. We could choose to visit the Fragonard perfume factory to discover the trade secrets of how its perfumes, soaps and cosmetics are produced, or simply enjoy this amazingly pretty town. We then continue to the Principality of Monaco, situated in a sunspot on the Mediterranean coast. Monaco, and its famous inner Monte Carlo district, has long been a playground for the fabulously rich and famous. The world’s most densely populated sovereign country, and one of the most expensive, this exclusive haunt is packed full of high-rise buildings, luxury yachts, exotic gardens and, of course, the world famous Monte Carlo casino. In stark contrast to the gleaming affluence, the south side of the port has a picturesque old town with narrow, medieval alleyways and historic buildings to explore, so we can enjoy both the modern and ancient parts of this buzzing country. We can also see the spectacular Prince’s Palace, home to the ruling family, the Royal Grimaldis, and discover its many splendours with a visit to the State Apartments (June to October only). Day 3 Diano Marina/San Bartolomeo al Mare/Alassio Driver’s Day Off Today we spend the day enjoying our resort or simply relaxing by the pool. If we’re staying in the relaxing coastal resort of Diano Marina, there are sweeping stretches of sandy beaches, clear waters and a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy. Also known as the city of orange trees, we can discover the tree-lined promenade with a good choice of authentic restaurants and shops in the pedestrianised town centre to browse. Alternatively, located at the western end of the Riviera dei Fiori in the province of Imperia, San Bartolomeo al Mare is a small but pretty seaside town with a long promenade and plenty to explore. Just down the coast, Alassio is a more vibrant seaside town with a wealth of shops, bars, restaurants and a fabulous seafront promenade. Day 4 Alassio & Cervo This morning we visit the vibrant resort of Alassio (if based in Diano Marina). Having been popular with British Victorian holidaymakers, the resort is full of expatriate heritage, including an English language library that is one of the oldest in Italy. We can enjoy wandering around the Budello di Alassio, where the history of the town can be most appreciated, with its numerous shops, churches and piazzas. We can stroll along the impressive sandy beach – one of the best in Italy! – before we make our way back to our hotel this afternoon via the ancient hilltop village of Cervo, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Day 5 Ventimiglia & San Remo This morning we visit Ventimiglia. One of the main attractions is the extensive outdoor market, so this can be included if visiting on a Friday, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from clothes to household items – don’t be afraid to barter! It also has the remains of a Roman theatre and baths, and the stunning Hanbury Botanical Gardens, where walking paths snake through 45 acres of plants, buildings and fountains. Perched on a hill across the river from the new town, we can also discover the beautiful, old medieval town of Ventimiglia Alta. In the afternoon we visit San Remo. For 300 years, San Remo has attracted the aristocracy to its palm-fringed shores. Regarded as a key social centre at the end of the 19th century, Italy’s answer to Monte Carlo boasts palatial villas and all the opulence you would expect from the Riviera. Explore the intriguing contrasts – from modern villas to towering medieval houses, and the ornate, domed Russian Orthodox Church. Day 6 Departure After breakfast, we begin our journey home. Please note: Èze, Cervo and San Remo have some steep paths and steps that may not be suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
Paul says… “I love that when it’s cold and raining in the UK, the sun and warmth of the Italian Riviera revitalises the senses! Year round sunshine, such a pretty coastline dotted with orange trees and verdant hills and really excellent family run hotels all make for a great getaway.”
Due to its superb micro climate, this destination can be featured throughout the year. Our hotels make a great base for both the Menton Lemon Festival and the Nice Carnival, held mid to late February annually.
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Albatross Approved Rating: ✓ Visited ✓ Inspected ✓ Graded
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