While neighbouring Portofino and the Cinque Terre are arguably the best-known tourist destinations on the Italian Riviera, the town of Sestri Levante is becoming a favourite among Italians…

Originally a small, secluded island, Sestri Levante is now connected to the mainland, and what used to be a small fishing village is slowly becoming a tourist hotspot. Some of its stunning beauty can be seen in its two bays, including the Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence), an idyllic, sandy beach in the old town said to be the most beautiful and romantic beach in Liguria.

Fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen stayed here for a short while in 1833 and is celebrated by today’s inhabitants every May in a festival dedicated to his works, which sees jugglers, street artists and competitions for children. The town also has hundreds of hiking and cycling trails, most of which face the sea and the picturesque bays.

Richard Reeves is the founder of Essential Sailing and if you have been inspired to relax on a luxury sailing holiday, why not make this idyllic world your reality.

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