Italian Rivera

Located on one of the sunniest areas of northern Italy, in close proximity to the French Cote d’Azur, the Italian Riviera beckons with cobalt-blue water and beautiful mountain landscapes.  The Italian Riviera offers the best of Italian old -world charm with picture perfect port towns sprinkling the mountainous coast.  Since the Ligurain Coast/Italian Riviera is less developed than the French Riviera, many feel it is as good or even better a charter destination than its more renowned neighbor. Liguria Stretches from the French Border, through the large and historic port of Genoa (Genova) and then winds down the hilly coast past famous towns.  Hidden in a tiny creek, is the ancient fishing village of Portofino.   With her magnificent town square and harbor, surrounded by brightly painted houses, it’s clear why Portofino is one of world’s most photographed ports.  Another highlight of the region is The Cinque Terre or 5 villages (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore) set along eighteen kilometers/five miles of sheer rocky coastline beneath steep terraced hills and vineyards. They are well-known for their vineyards and local wines. Spend the day marveling about the terraced hills, sipping a local wine at an impossibly quaint restaurant, and hiking the scenic paths.