CITY HITLIST
Monterosso al Mare, Italy.
La Casa del Gigante Luxury Collection
Named after Monterosso’s Il Gigante rock sculpture, this private villa is a favourite among design lovers for its rich Italian history. The home was designed by famed Italian architect Claudio Andreani and interiors are by Piero Pinto. Via Privata Montale 13
Fabbrica d’Arte Monterosso
Carry-on baggage exists for the very reason that you’ll end up in a shop like this on your travels. Featuring the work of local artists and ceramicists, every piece is curated and handmade to reflect the offerings of Cinque Terre ranging from ceramic anchovies to terracotta sculptures of Monterosso’s 14th-century church, San Giovanni Battista. Via Roma 9
Enoteca Internazionale
If there’s one thing we should all embrace on holiday, it’s aperitivo. The Babieri family takes aperitivo seriously and as custodians of the oldest wine bar and shop in the village, has an extensive wine menu that showcases the best wine suppliers throughout the Cinque Terre. Tastings are available and well partnered with their antipasti board. Via Roma 63
Getting there
Take an intercity train from Florence, Milan, Rome or Turin, then a direct local train from La Spezia or Genoa.
If you’re hoping to recline on a striped deckchair with an Aperol Spritz in hand or keen for a relaxing ocean swim, then Fegina beach awaits you. It’s the biggest beach in all of Cinque Terre and the only sand-covered option in the area.