Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure is a small town on the Italian Riviera where pastel buildings line a harbour of fishing boats and yachts. Ships anchor offshore and passengers tender to the waterfront. The town centre has narrow streets, a 16th-century castle, and the Basilica of Santa Margherita with its ornate interior. The seafront promenade connects to Paraggi, a small cove with clear water. Portofino, Italy's most photographed fishing village, is a 15-minute bus ride or a coastal walk through olive groves and pine forest. The boat from Santa Margherita to Portofino is another option and takes about the same time. San Fruttuoso, an abbey in a cove accessible only by boat or hiking trail, has a submerged bronze statue of Christ visible to snorkellers. Focaccia, trofie al pesto, and fresh fried seafood are the local staples. Gelato shops line the harbour.