It’s everyone’s dream. Well, mine anyway. And once you read this, it could very well be yours, too. If it’s not already.
Imagine waking each day to the sun streaming through your sandstone villa window, as you look out onto the shores of an Italian seaside town. Then think how, in some of those towns, the sun shines virtually all year round.
Il Sole 24 Ore is an Italian newspaper that runs an annual Climate Index, listing the provincial towns with the best weather. It takes into consideration wind, rainfall, fog, relative humidity and extreme weather events to find the locale with the foremost forecasts.
Of the 107 towns analysed, Imperia on the Italian Riviera was voted the town with the best weather.
Here, summer breezes, low humidity and warm weather abound all year round. This medieval town, located between Genoa and the French border, scored highly in all categories, especially in hours of sunshine, summer breezes and heat. And it’s darn pretty, too.
The town second from the top is down towards the bottom of the boot: Catania in Sicily. This coastal wonder scored highly on sunny days and it’s relative humidity makes for a comfortable climate.
In third, was another mainland town, Abruzzo’s largest city, Pescara, which rated well on sunshine, heat and summer breezes.
The city with the most sunshine was Syracuse (which also had the most rain), while the warmest town was Enna. For those who love a summer breeze, Perugia is the place to be, while anyone who likes it a little cooler might want to visit Catania.
But although weather plays a big part of any holiday, some travellers prefer aesthetics over atmosphere. Here are some seaside towns that are so pretty you’ll never want to leave. And the expert tips from Fodor’s will ensure you get the best of each destination.
Positano
Positano could be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Its pastel-coloured houses perched on mountains overlook the stunning sea off the Amalfi Coast.
Fodor’s insider tip:
“Bring comfortable shoes. Positano has many winding paths and steep staircases. On your way to the beach, stop by Le Sirenuse, Steinbeck’s stomping ground, for a meal or a drink by the pool. The famed hotel recently opened Franco’s Bar as an homage to one of the four siblings who founded the hotel.”
Ravello
Amalfi may be the more popular seaside spot but, according to Fodor’s, Ravello tops it – literally. The town is poised high above the Bay of Salerno and is celebrated for its romantic gardens offering spectacular views of the water.
Fodor’s insider tip:
“Splurge on a room with a view at Palazzo Avino, a luxurious pink hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, three levels of terraced gardens, and a swimming pool overlooking the sea, or at least stop by for an Aperol Spritz on the terrace.”
Cagliari
Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, has it all: If you’re looking for more than a beach, then look no further than Cagliari. Sure, it has gorgeous beaches, but these stunning shores are accented by superb Italianate architecture, trendy shops, cafés and restaurants, wildlife, parks and more.
Fodor’s insider tip:
“Prepare a picnic with fresh food from the Mercato di San Benedetto, considered one of the best fish markets in Italy. Sardinia also has some of the best windsurfing in Italy.”
La Maddalena
Between Sardinia and Corsica you’ll find La Maddalena – renowned for its dazzling beaches, granite islands, picturesque coves and as the final resting place for Italian revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Fodor’s insider tip:
“La Maddalena is only accessible by a ferry that leaves every half-hour from Palau.”
Have you been to any of these towns? Would you recommend them to our members?
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