Day 1 – Arrival & Dolceacqua: The Enchanting Medieval Village
Afternoon:
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Arrive at CasadelGrillo and settle in. Enjoy a coffee or aperitivo on the terrace with a breathtaking view.
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Head to Dolceacqua, a picturesque village known for its stone bridge (Ponte Vecchio) and Doria Castle.
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Wander through the medieval streets and discover artisan shops selling local olive oil, pesto, and Rossese wine.
Evening:
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Dinner at a local agriturismo – Enjoy homemade Ligurian specialties with local ingredients.
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Try Ravioli di Borragine, Coniglio alla Ligure (Rabbit Ligurian Style), and a glass of Rossese di Dolceacqua wine.
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Return to CasadelGrillo for a peaceful night’s rest.
Day 2 – Apricale: A Fairytale Mountain Village & Natural Workshop
Morning:
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Breakfast at CasadelGrillo, then drive (10 min) to Apricale, a village that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale.
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Stroll through the steep, flower-lined alleyways, admiring the old stone houses and art murals.
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Visit Castello della Lucertola, a historic castle with breathtaking views.
Late Morning Experience:
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Join a hands-on natural soap and cream workshop at Albero Storto.
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Learn how to craft skincare products using organic and local ingredients.
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Take home your handmade creations as a special memory from Liguria.
Lunch:
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Enjoy delicious Trofie al Pesto and homemade desserts at a local trattoria.
Afternoon:
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Explore nearby hiking trails or relax in the village square with a caffè e dolce.
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Head back to CasadelGrillo for a sunset aperitivo on the terrace.
Day 3 – Seaside Bliss in Bordighera Alta
Morning:
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After a relaxing breakfast at CasadelGrillo, drive down to Bordighera Alta, a charming seaside town with both history and stunning beaches.
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Walk through the historic center, filled with colorful houses and small piazzas.
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Visit the Church of Sant’Ampelio, perched on the rocks overlooking the sea.
Lunch:
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Enjoy fresh seafood pasta & white wine under lemon trees at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
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Relax at Arziglia Beach, a less crowded, crystal-clear spot.
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Walk along the Lungomare Argentina, Italy’s longest seaside promenade.
Evening:
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Enjoy a romantic sunset drink by the sea, then return to CasadelGrillo for a restful evening.
Day 4 – Hanbury Gardens & French Riviera Charm in Menton
Morning:
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Drive from CasadelGrillo to Giardini Botanici Hanbury, a 19th-century botanical paradise with exotic plants and sea views.
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Take a slow walk through the Mediterranean gardens, soaking in the beauty.
Lunch:
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Drive 15 min to Menton, France (just across the border).
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Have lunch in Menton’s old town – try French-Italian fusion cuisine.
Afternoon:
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Stroll the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Lover’s Walk) along the coast, stopping to admire the colorful houses of Menton.
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Explore Menton’s historic center, visiting the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange and small boutique shops.
Evening:
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Return to CasadelGrillo for a peaceful last evening under the stars.
Day 5 – Slow Morning & Departure
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Enjoy a lazy breakfast at CasadelGrillo with fresh pastries, fruit, and Ligurian coffee.
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One last walk through the village, breathing in the scents of rosemary and citrus.
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Depart, already dreaming of your next Ligurian escape.
Why you should love this Itinerary
✅ CasadelGrillo as your perfect home base, balancing relaxation and exploration.
✅ A mix of countryside, seaside, and cultural experiences for a well-rounded trip.
✅ Slow travel pace so you can fully immerse yourself in Liguria.
✅ Unique local experiences, like the natural soap and cream workshop in Apricale.