We’re passionate about the coast. That’s why we love discovering great places around Europe to see beautiful sunsets. From the most prestigious marinas and yacht clubs, to hidden gems and forgotten coves, if you can capture the sunset there, we’re on a hunt to find it.
This month, our Sunset Hunter series takes us to a picturesque village, lying on the scenic shores of Italy. Otherwise known as the eighth wonder of the world, Portofino is a quaint fishing town on the Italian Riviera coastline, just southeast of Genoa city.
Recognised for its unique pastel-coloured houses, high-end boutiques and delicious, fresh seafood restaurants, the piazzetta boasts panoramic views of both the town and the crystal clear Ligurian Sea – perfect for a weekend of pure relaxation.
From film stars to fashionistas, Portofino is bustling with famous faces who travel from around the globe in-search of warm weather and a place to shop, eat, drink and unwind. We recommend visiting in the later summer months, when the friendly locals venture out to enjoy the now quiet and undisturbed town.
As you come into dock for the day, you’ll be greeted by the world-famous Marina di Portofino. Located in the centre of a natural headland, the bay offers 14 berths for pleasure boats and super-yachts, as well as two places for mega-yachts and three for tenders.
As the morning sun creeps into the sky, now’s the time to make the most of Italy’s fabulous bakeries and patisseries scattered along the town’s twisting backstreets. Grab a slice of ‘focaccia con il formaggio’ to take to down to the beautiful white sandy shores and enjoy freshly-baked brunch on the beach.
Climb the stairs leading away from Portofino harbour in the afternoon to discover the plaza of Chiesa di San Giorgio – a reconstructed Romanesque-style church that was destroyed during WWII. During its rebuild, an ancient hidden chapel was found, revealing a picture-perfect vista with aerial views of Portofino’s quintessential bay below.
If you fancy exploring more of the coast, hop on your tender and head to San Fruttuoso, a stretch of Mediterranean coast filled with pretty cafés, flower-entwined streets and impressive architecture. The Abbey of San Fructuous is a striking building nestled in the hills and can be explored on foot – and the small surrounding bay offers the perfect place for a spot of snorkelling before heading back to Portofino for the evening.
As night approaches, head towards the lighthouse at ‘Faro di Punta di Portofino’, where you can grab a glass of local wine or an ice cream at the alfresco bar overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Here you can watch the sun disappear behind the hills while sampling some of the finest Italian food and drink you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting.
If you enjoyed sunset hunting with us, keep an eye out for the next installment of our Sunset Hunter series – coming soon.
