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The Italian Riviera: A Boating Paradise

  • 26 July 2021
  • 4 minute read
  • Nora
Vernazza italy, vernazza sailing, sailing in vernazza, boat rentals in vernazza

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The Italian Riviera is a uniquely beautiful coast just waiting to be explored. It’s the place to go to for good food, emerald blue water and pastel-coloured villages. Each place you stop at is more picturesque than the other. The Italian Riviera is located in the northwestern corner of Italy, in the region of Liguria. Composed of many fishing villages and rugged cliffs, it stretches along the Ligurian Sea.

This dramatic coastline is known mainly for Cinque Terre and the village of Portofino. There are many cliffside villages to visit with your Click&Boat boat rental! 

Cinque Terre

There is nothing like visiting Cinque Terre and its fishing villages for a long weekend of delicious pasta and snorkelling. You can also try the local Farinata di Ceci, made from chickpea flour! 

Below are 5 villages that are worth visiting: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Each with its own beautiful aspect, this is a great route to do through the Italian Riviera. 

Monterosso

Monterosso is the largest of the five coastal villages. It is located on hills that are cultivated to grow lemons, vines and olive trees. When you hire a boat, why not stop in Monterosso for an aperitivo? You can see the beautiful medieval tower of Aurora from the water and listen to the background of the waves crashing along the side of the boat. 

Then appreciate the new part of the city in Fegina. It’s full of life, with pleasant restaurants to enjoy lunch or dinner. You will also be able to see the ruins of the castle, characterized by the famous statue that represents Neptune. It has now become the symbol of Monterosso.

Vernazza

Vernazza is the most characteristic part of Cinque Terre. Classified as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, the best way to get to this breathtaking village is by sea. Subtly coloured pastel houses surround the port, and good restaurants line the piazza. The medieval castle of Belforte was built in the mid-1500s, primarily to protect the village from pirates. Steep terraced olive groves surround the village. Make sure to take some of the finest olive oil in the country back with you!

Corniglia

Corniglia lies on a small cape, 100 meters above sea level. When you arrive by boat, you will need to walk up a footpath to reach the village. This is an ancient Roman village that has a long and rich agricultural tradition. It’s surrounded by vineyards and terraces. Its architecture is closer to that of a rural inland village than a coastal village. 

Manarola, manarola sailing, sailing in manarola, rent a boat in manarola, manarola sailing, sailing in manarola, sailing in cinque terre

Manarola

Manarola is one of the most charming and romantic villages of Cinque Terre. Built on a high rock above the sea, its tiny harbour features picturesque multicoloured houses facing the sea. The view from your boat rental will be extraordinary with the mix of colours.

This area also has a beautiful harbour with the best deep-water swimming around. There is a ladder up the rocks and a shower. It’s the perfect area to swim in!

Riomaggiore

The southernmost village of Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore, dates back to the 8th century. According to legend, the inhabitants of the Vara valley moved towards the coast in search of perfect climatic conditions to harvest grapevines and olive trees. The town, made up of typical coloured houses, overlooks the sea. 

Moor in the port and enjoy the wonderfully romantic atmosphere of the village. Take a stroll through town to admire the landscape and try out some delicious food.

Cinque Terre is a great area for swimming. After a day of sailing along the coastline, nothing feels better than a long swim in the Mediterranean waters.

Portofino Italy, Portofino, Sailing in Portofino, Portofino boating, Portofino boat rentals, rent a boat in Portofino
Portofino, Italy

Portofino

Yet another famous Italian seaside village! It’s a beautiful traditional fishing village that should definitely be on your bucket list. The best part about a boat rental here is that you can make the most of both the village and the beaches that surround it!

Paraggi beach is only a few minutes away from the town centre. It’s an enchanting little bay with emerald water and an astonishing landscape. It’s a great beach for a romantic getaway, to relax in the sun and take a dip in the beautiful sea. 

Another great beach to visit is Niasca beach. Surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, this little secluded beach is perfect for an early morning swim.

And last but not least, stop at the stunning San Fruttuoso beach. This is easily a favourite among those who enjoy boating around this stunning region. The crystalline water will leave you in awe. The view from your boat in Camogli bay is magical!

Adore the beautiful Italian Riviera from your boat rental. A perfect sailing holiday to spend with your family or friends!

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Nora

I work as a marketing manager at Click&Boat in sunny Barcelona and feel most at home on the water. Sailing is my passion and I even spent a chapter of my life living on a sailboat. Now, I enjoy sharing tips, stories and advice to help others discover boating and create their own magical moments at sea.

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