Revisiting Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure May 2012

One of my favorite stops on the Holland America Eurodam cruise of the Western Med was Santa Margherita Ligure. Originally we were supposed to tender there, but there was a change of plans and we ended up tendering at La Spezia. I chose to take the tour to Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, and I am so glad I did. It was a hard decision as the other tour I wanted to do was Cinque Terre. The really cool part of our tour was that the bus actually meandered through the area of Cinque Terre, so we were able to see the houses perched on the hills from our bus, and I just couldn't miss Portofino. I loved Portofino, but I think I liked Santa Margherita Ligure even more.

Notice the Holland America sign at the bottom of the photo

Why, you say? Portofino is amazing. It has star power and is totally walkable. There are charming hotels and great restaurants and what's not to love? But Santa Margherita Ligure is a real place. When the sun goes down and the cruise ships and yachts leave, Portofino nearly closes up, but SML continues. It has banks, police, a Cathedral, real estate offices and restaurants for the local people. I would love to return to both places, but I think I would stay in SML. Our walking tour was fascinating!

Italian flag-inspired building

Cathedral detail at Santa Margherita Ligure

Real estate office ceiling at Santa Margherita Ligure

If you would like to visit this area, there is great information on Fodor's site about this area of the Italian Riviera, just click here.

Portofino and Santa Margherita

Portofino, Italy

My excitement level is rising as I anticipate my Western Med cruise at the end of April and beginning of May. I cannot wait to see Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. I haven't decided yet whether I will take a ship's tour that includes a boat ride to the Abbey at San Fruttuoso and Camogli, or wander down the road from Santa Margherita to Portofino on foot with a small group of friends (I plan to make.) Both ideas have their pluses and minuses. Sometimes it can be exhilarating to take off not quite knowing where you are going or when you will get back. On the other hand, there are just so many must see things I need to pack in a few hours. Guess I will figure it out there.

Walking route from Santa Margherita to Portofino

Portofino