Italy may be known as one of the most romantic countries in the world, but the Italian Riviera is one of the most romantic spots in the country. Along with the breathtaking Italian Riviera in Liguria, I’d like to suggest some places to celebrate Valentine’s Day. In brief, see one of the best options for a couple’s trip to Italy!
Italian Riviera – couple’s trip to Italy
Surely there are countless nooks and crannies along Liguria’s rugged coastline, many of them perfect for a lover’s escape. You can make it active by rephrasing it as: “Discover these areas for yourself as you wander through the more well-known ones. For example, two locations that would be part of an unforgettable Valentine’s Day adventure are the charming town of Portovenere and the walking trail that hugs the Ligurian coast known as the Via dell’ Amore.
Portovenere
Portovenere is located in the Riviera di Levante portion of Liguria and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town opens onto the Gulf of Poets (Golfo dei Poeti – La Spezia) and in the past, it has been celebrated by poets such as Byron, Shelleys, Lawrence, and painters, for its natural beauty.
This picturesque bay is captivating for its brightly colored houses and alleys filled with quaint seafood restaurants, bars, and shops. A place like Portavenere is definitely great for a couple’s trip to Italy. San Pietro’s striped church, which is located on Portovenere’s promontory, is one of this small town’s most stunning tourist attractions. The church protrudes towards the open sea, built in the Genoese-Gothic style above the ruins of a paleo christian church. Another church worth visiting is San Lorenzo, which contains several fine works of art.
The terrace of Portovenere’s Doria Castle, which overlooks the harbor, is a lovely spot for a romantic picnic. You don’t need to pay the entrance charge for the Castle, which means you can spend a few more on a bottle of delicious local wine or after dinner Limoncello.
Just off Portovenere there are the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto. These islands are wonderful for their natural parks, whale sanctuary, and for their beaches and coves. Certainly, they are perfect for a romantic escape and easily accessible thanks to the ferry service.
Following the coast north from Portovenere, you arrive at the famous Cinque Terre. If you include the Cinque Terre (Five Lands – UNESCO World Heritage Site) in your romantic travel plans, I suggest to you the famous footpath between Riomaggiore and Manarola, called “la Via dell’ Amore” (Walk of Love), dedicated to lovers. Therefore, what’s better for a couple’s trip to Italy?
La Via dell’ Amore (Walk of Love) – Cinque Terre
The Via dell’ Amore is one of the most famous trails in Italy and one of the most dramatic. This footpath, cut out of the sheer rock, is just a stone’s throw away from the sea and is known for its enchanting views. Sunsets can be especially breathtaking, and part of the trail is cut into the rock with windows perfect for stealing a kiss. The Via dell’ Amore is a short 30-minute hike that is paved, unlike the entire Monterosso trail, which is unpaved.
The path is actually part of the original foot route between the Cinque Terre before the boring of the railway tunnels between Manarola and Riomaggiore and between Riomaggiore and La Spezia. Especially this small portion of the larger route was improved and baptized “Via dell’ Amore” for the romantic nature of its panoramas. The ticket for the trail is 5 euro, which is used for the maintenance of the path. It is a small price to pay for this unique experience, especially if it is shared with a special person.
Due to a landslide that partially blocked the path in 2012, the path is actually closed as of February 2019. It should be again opened completely in 2023. Limit your exploration to the small area near Manarola train station. If you’re traveling to Cinque Terre, you should definitely consider visiting also Portofino, Vernazza, and Coniglia. There are also great ways to plan a road trip to Cinque Terre, La Spezia, and more.
So if you’re looking for a perfect couple’s trip to Italy, definitely consider the Italian riviera and Portavenere!
Booking.comBy Anna Merulla
Updated by Helga Dosa
