Liguria

Driving round the coast is an adventure in itself, as the landscape changes from stretches of sand, pebbles and caves to bustling ports and towns. The most famous (or infamous!) of these ports is Genoa. A villa in Italy, especially a villa in Liguria, in and around Genoa can afford you an experience of a traditional lively seaport. This is where Christopher Columbus was born and whether you’re looking at art in the Royal Palace, visiting the legendary explorer’s house, or enjoying an aperitif on the harbour, Genoa is a historic town not to be missed. Elsewhere there are villas in Liguria where you can move at a slower pace. The area is one of natural beauty, from the mountains which enfold it and the hills that run through it to the luxuriant forests and quiet Italian villages. A visit to Cinque Terre, a collection of 5 villages pressed into the coastline, is a must and whether you’re strolling or hiking the views are magnificent. If you want a villa in Italy with glamour then look no further than San Remo or Portofino. Both resorts sit on the Italian equivalent of the French Riviera and they are effortlessly chic and alluring. The western part of the region is just a short drive from Monte Carlo so a villa in Liguria (certainly in this part) will cost less and give you a taste of the unspoilt countryside while also giving you easy access to the bright lights of the casinos.