Holidays in Santa Margherita Ligure

An introduction to Santa Margherita Ligure

If one word sums up Santa Margherita, it's 'elegant'. Bigger than its neighbours Rapallo and Portofino, it's one of those beautiful, classic Italian resorts where relaxation comes in stately, aristocratic style.
Every visit here starts at the palm-fringed seafront, locked between hillsides tiered with graceful villas and hotels and an indigo-blue Mediterranean bay. Crunch into a luxurious cornet from a waterfront gelaterie or settle in a pavement cafe and watch the small fishing boats that still operate here as they weave between the rows of gleaming yachts. When you fancy exploring further, head for the hillside dominating the waterfront, where hidden alleyways lead to a picturesque church. Here, you'll also find the gardens of the gloriously faded Villa Durazzo, where you can amble along shady, statue-lined walkways to experience how the wealthy Italians of old whiled away their free time.
Away from the resort's bustling shopping centre, hop on a boat to revel in the candy-striped colours of glamorous Portofino, tucked into a nearby bay. Or visit the exquisite clifftop Cervara Abbey to admire its ornate gardens laid out against a spectacular coastal backdrop. And when you fancy soaking up the sun, head out on either side of town to find little sandy beaches where you can swim in sparkling cool waters.
As evening falls, return to base to sample Santa Margherita's excellent restaurants, running the gamut between chi-chi waterside eateries through to cosy, simple trattorias hidden in the back streets. And if you're still hypnotised by the bright lights, finish your day in modern Italian style, swaying the night away at one of Santa Margherita's smart nightclubs.

Find the cheapest late deals to Santa Margherita Ligure leaving in the next six weeks.