PORTOFINO, ITALIA

Portofino is located on Italy’s western coast and is part of the Italian Riviera. PJ and I traveled there with the ODR department on post, which was completely worth it because we didn’t have to do any of the driving! We arrived in Santa Margherita Ligure in the morning and took a ferry over to Portofino. Santa Margherita Ligure is also the location of one of Elizabeth Taylor's engagements.

Santa Margherita Ligure

On the ferry

Pulling into the harbor

It was only a day trip so there wasn’t too much time to spare. First, we headed to the Church of San Giorgio, where there was a beautiful look-out spot. Then we traveled past the castle to the main lighthouse, which overlooks the ocean and mountains in the distance. It was the perfect time to rest and have some gelato. The water in Portofino is crystal clear and we had been told that it is a popular dolphin hangout, although we didn’t spot any.

The narrow paths

The streets and homes in Portofino are very unique. We didn’t pass any cars on the main pathways, and looking back I don’t think cars could fit. The homes are also very interesting because most are nestled into the hillside, hidden from view, with vines and trees to block them. Many are not even visible until you are right in front of them. I suppose that is why celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Dolce and Gabbana, Orson Welles, Sophia Loren, etc all like(d) to holiday there.

Can you find the house?

The gates are so colorful

The gates are so colorful

After some sightseeing we headed for lunch along the harbor. The food was delicious but EXTREMELY overpriced. We have found that a glass of wine will typically run you 3 maybe 4 Euro, these places wanted 8! Don’t bother getting a mixed drink, unless you want to pay 35 Euro! The location was worth it for a one-meal type of thing, but if we had stayed for dinner, we probably would have ventured onto the side streets.

After relaxing in the sun and watching the massive yachts and boats come and go, we headed out to take the ferry back and head home. It was a wonderful trip and I would highly recommend a visit there, just be sure to look at prices before you sit.