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Vinazza and surrounding
Far enough from the Italian Riviera (25km.) away to guarantee peace and quiet in the Ligurian hills immersed in nature - yet only 40 minutes from it! Bordighera for example, is a delightful 19 century resort, with a beautiful old town, the "cittą alta", a market on thursday mornings along the boulevard, shops, and lots of good restaurants.
Then, almost at the French border just beyond Ventimiglia, you will find the Hanbury Gardens. These botanical gardens were laid out by Sir.Thomas Hanbury in 1867, and are now in the care of the University of Genoa. Over 4000 species of plants can be seen growing there, thanks to the unique microclimate.
Venturing further inland you will discover Pigna, a beautiful medieval village, with its nearby thermal spa, utilizing a natural hot spring (32?C) of mineral-rich water.
A little further still lie the serious mountains, the Little Dolomites of monte Toraggio and monte Marta, at 2000 mt. The whole area is well served with paths affording endless walking and unforgettable views.
Very close to Vinazza are the villages of Baiardo, Apricale, Isolabona and Dolceacqua - places to stop for coffee, sit and watch the world go by, explore, and admire the distinctive architecture of each.
Last but not least Vinazza itself, a small "localitą" (a hamlet) made up of four little houses and a tiny restaurant (nestling in a fold in the hills).
Lots of privacy, peace, tranquillity, nature;
Little corners to sit, to laze, to read;
Good wine (AIS), very pure olive oil, heavenly meals;
The 'marvel' Mario, Baldo the dog, and welcoming hostess Diane.
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