Perfect Italian Weekend - Portovenere in Liguria

A perfect weekend in Italy without the limitations of time, budget, or distance. Every week we ask interesting and inspirational Italians, and Italians at heart, to take us along for a perfect, local weekend. This week Sofie de Lauw, a Belgium Photographer from Florence, will take us along on an amazing hike in Portovenere.
 

Sofie, I'm a Flemish photographer and have been living in Florence for the past 15 years with Alessandro (from Pisa) and our 8-year-old daughter, Emma. I often travel around Italy for travel magazines and hotels, always searching for authentic experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations, slow travel, and quality without excessive luxury. Connecting with people and their surroundings, becoming part of their stories, brings me joy and, of course, losing myself in nature.

Saturday 

For an unforgettable weekend, we head to the Ligurian coast, just two hours from Florence, for a scenic hike. Along the way, we stop at Pane e Delizie bakery in La Spezia to pick up some
local favorites for a picnic: torte salate with spinach and ricotta, and focaccia with olives.
You'll find yourself happily queuing alongside friendly locals. 

A short 15-minute drive takes us to Campiglia Tramonti, where we begin our descent of 3,000 steps to Spiaggia del Persico. This breathtaking trail winds through centuries-old vineyards and citrus groves, offering stunning views of the azure Ligurian Sea. At the bottom, we spend the
afternoon on a beautiful, wild pebble beach, enjoying our picnic and taking a refreshing swim. Often, you'll have this little slice of paradise all to yourself. Later, we enjoy an aperitif in the garden at Piccoloblu.

Sunday 

On Sunday, we kick off the day with coffee at a charming caravan café at Sella Derbi. From there, we hike through the woods and along the coast, eventually arriving at Rifugio Muzzerone for lunch. The menu features pasta with pesto and jaw-dropping views of Porto Venere and Palmaria Island - a perfect ending to a weekend escape.