Lerici

Hailed by many as The Pearl of the Gulf, the charismatic seaside town of Lerici in Liguria, Northern Italy is enchanting, and has lured many writers and poets over the years to its shores including English poet Lord Byron and Shelley, to name a few. The historic town itself has a lovely crescent-shaped piazza to sit and people-watch from one of the many cafes and restaurants. The main sight of Lerici though is its castle, found in 1152. An imposing building, today it contains a museum of palaentology, which is worth visiting. A main attraction has to be the beach though. With soft golden sand fringed by palm trees, a lovely promenade to stroll along and waterfront cafes to relax at, it’s perfect for the family. Feeling active? Take one of the hiking trails through the Park Montemarcello to the spectacular fishing villages of Fiascherino and Tellaro, or hop on a ferry to explore the rest of the UNESCO Heritage site of Cinque Terre. Magnificent.