Gems of the Riviera

In Sestri Levante, we’ll stay at Villa Balbi, a beautifully preserved 17th-century aristocratic villa that overlooks the Ligurian Sea. This historic gem offers a unique blend of elegance and luxury. With its rich interiors and stunning views of the Gulf of Tigullio, nestled between Portofino and Cinqueterre, it provides the perfect balance of coastal beauty and Italian heritage. From here, we can take serene walks along the sea, basking in the timeless charm of the Italian Riviera.

From the coast, we retreat to the peaceful hills behind Imperia for a stay at the Relais del Maro in Borgomaro. This boutique hotel, set in lovingly restored village houses, offers a more tranquil and rural side of Liguria. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Relais del Maro is a perfect escape, providing sustainable luxury and personalised service. Here, the fresh mountain air and quiet pace of village life will be a welcome contrast to the bustling coast, allowing us to relax by the pool or enjoy a local Ligurian feast in the garden.

Our journey then takes us to the Mediterranean gem of Villefranche-sur-Mer, where we’ll stay at La Flore, a charming Provencal-style boutique hotel. Perched above Villefranche harbour, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the picturesque town below. Here, we’ll enjoy a slower pace, with time to explore the historic streets, dine on fresh local seafood, and soak in the peaceful, sun-drenched beauty of the region.

Finally, we reach Saint-Tropez, where La Bastide du Port will offer us a taste of glamour and romance. This boutique hotel provides both luxury and stunning views across the Golfe de Saint-Tropez. Whether we choose to unwind in the hotel’s refined comfort or head out to explore the town’s lively streets, we’ll find ourselves surrounded by the energy and charm that have made Saint-Tropez a world-renowned destination.

The cuisine throughout our journey will be just as memorable as the scenery. In Sestri Levante, we’ll savour Ligurian delicacies like trofie al pesto and fresh seafood straight from the Ligurian Sea. Borgomaro will delight us with the rustic flavours of Ligurian mountain cuisine, such as wild boar stew, polenta, and taggiasca olive tapenade, highlighting the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Villefranche-sur-Mer will introduce us to Provencal flavours, with dishes like bouillabaisse, ratatouille, and freshly baked baguettes paired with local rosé wine. And in Saint-Tropez, we’ll indulge in a sophisticated blend of Provençal and Mediterranean fare, with grilled fish, artisanal cheeses, and irresistible pastries, providing a fitting finale to our culinary adventure.

This journey offers not only the best of both worlds in terms of location but also an unforgettable experience of fine food, stunning landscapes, and timeless elegance.