Doria Castle & Portovenere Views

The Doria Castle sits up above the town of Portovenere. The views from the top are breathtaking. 

To get up to the castle you must walk through the cutest alley ways and winding stairs. As long as you are going uphill you are bound to end up at the castle. 

The castle was built by the Doria family in 1161. The views of the Mediterranean Sea and Ligurian coast are divine and is a must see for anyone going to Italy!

 The view from the Doria Castle ruins.

 

 Me taking in the view.

 The view from Doria Castle looking out into the Mediterranean.

 

 The inside of the castle which is now used to show art.

 More of the castle ruins.

 The amphitheater stage at the castle.

The beautiful alley ways that lead throughout Portovenere and up to the Castle.

Make sure to put Doria Castle on you Portovenere itenerary!

-S

Porto Venere aka Portovenere

Porto Venere is a small Italian town on the Ligurian coast.

The village boasts historical churches, a fabulous hilltop castle, great shops, and breathtaking views.  It makes for a great stop outisde of Cinque Terre.

 Take the time to take a dip in Grotto Byron which is so named for Lord Byron who used to spend time at the gorgeous grotto.  The water is clear and warm and has some good snorkeling.

Take a walk up to the Church of St. Peter which boast two historical buildings.  Walk through the cute alley ways that make up the town and browse the cute shops filled with jewelry, pesto, and more.

Enjoy Porto Venere!

- S

The gorgeous view and clear waters of Byron Grotto. Lord Byron used to spend time here meditating and working on his literary masterpieces.

 The view from Church of St. Peter

 Byron's Grotto (Grotto Arpaia)

 View looking up towards Gothic Church of St. Peter

 

The endless sea of blue below Church of St. Peter.

 

The gorgeous streets and adorable alleys that make up Porto Venere.

 Shops and restaurants line the marina.

 

Sunny Day + Gelato = Perfection!!!

Can never have enough of these views!

Portofino Percection

Sharing some photos from a trip to one of the most beautiful cities in the world:

Portofino, Italy

Portofino is a small fishing village and tourist dream. The picturesque city and quaint harbor make for a wonderful visit. The people are delightful, the food is delicious and the views are world class.
Enjoy the pictures I took and make plans to some day be able to visit Portofino.
I know I am ready to go back already!!
Make sure to take some time to hike up to Castello Brown. The main trail is easy and can be done in sandals. Although I was a little sweaty at the top, the views of Portofino from above can't be beat. Have lunch or a cappuccino at one of the many cafes around the harbor or main square. Shop the gorgeous designer boutiques. Take a ride or a gorgeous trek up to Belmond Hotel Splendido to check out the riviera views. Have a glass of wine, and eat some amazing Italian food.

All worth it!

Make sure to put Portofino on your bucketlist!

-S 

The view of Portofino from Castello Brown

Castello Brown up on the hillside, and the many boats lining the harbor.

The gorgeous plants at the Belmond Hotel Splendido.

The bustling harbor on a perfect day.

Even with the clouds rolling in, the village is still glorious.

Me, happy girl hiking up to Castello Brown

Some of the water view around the village

Soaking it all in.

 Church of San Giorgio, Portofino, Italy

 A perfect little lunch on a floating dock.

 Gorgeous view of the Italian Riviera.

 

A Balcony at Castello Brown.

The views surrounding Portofino just can't be beat!

Thanks for reading!!

-S

Two Thousand Sixteen

Happy New Year!! 

Cannot believe that 2016 is here!

It is going to be a great year!!

xoxo

-S

 

 All images via Pinterest