Levanto, euphonic word
evoking the grace of one of the most lovely resorts of the Ligurian Riviera di
Levante, a stone’s throw from the Cinque Terre and halfway between Tigullio and
Cinque Terre. An easy reach (car, train, bus), it is efficiently served by the
A11 autostrada (exits Carrodano and Brugnato) and by a central tourist
information office.
A beautiful historical
centre, a pleasant seashore lined with neat stabilimenti balneari, a landscape
of green, and a remarkable accommodation system represent
Levanto’s four of a
kind. The last years have seen the blossoming of water sports such as surfing
and diving, too. Enthusiast divers find their joy in the seabed of Punta Mesco,
a magic promontory on the border with Monterosso that has been celebrated by the
verses of poet Eugenio Montale, the 20th century bard of this corner
of Mediterraneity.
Stroll around a maze of
carruggi and ancient docks (Levanto was a Medieval port-emporium) and fall under
the spell of an astounding cultural gem: the parish church devoted to
Sant’Andrea boasts a black and white striped façade with a stunning rose window
and a five-aisle interior protecting art masterpieces (marble, wood, paintings
and jewellery).
Time runs smoothly in
Levanto, which – in fact – belongs to the “città slow” circuit, a celebration of
quality of life. Streets, noble palaces and architectures area constant
invitation to the most rewarding of experiences, a medley of sea, nature,
culture and enogastronomy. Turn your back to the coast for an immersion into the
charm of secluded hamlets, sprinkled with agriturismi and trattorie. Two ancient
salt routes still reach Pontremoli (Lunigiana) to the east and the
province of Piacenza
to the west.
Vineyards and olive groves
generously offer the miracle of scenting wines and velvety extravirgins. The
area is also known for its first-class products and recipes: anchovies, mussels,
vegetable savoury pies and cappon magro, a stunning sea mosaic you are strongly
recommended to taste. Gourmet travellers will surely take part to the
Mangialonga, an itinerant event that (each year) explores the hidden corners of
Levanto: the miss-not of miss-nots is represented by the gattafuin, ravioli
filled with herbs, cheese, ricotta, eggs, onion, and fried – a token of a
cuisine du terroir that has mastered through time the art of creativity and
simplicity.
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