Rapallo overlooks the Gulf of Tigullio on the Ligurian coast. The sandy beach is lined with bright blue changing cabins, giving it a jaunty look. They were empty the day we visited. Even though it was warm and sunny, the season is over and everything will soon be packed up until next summer.
The little castle was built in 1550. I think the sign advertising the cartoon exhibition spoils it somewhat.
Rapallo has Roman origins and there is a bridge supposedly used by Hannibal – just before he strolled into Bagni di Lucca to use the mineral spa no doubt.
Aristocrats flocked to the area in the 19th century to enjoy the climate. There are Art Nouveau cafes and hotels lining the Lungomare Vittorio Veneto to remind us of Rapallo’s past glories. It is a beautiful and interesting town and it would be easy to spend hours here wandering in its lovely streets.
Servizio Marittimo del Tigullio operates a year round boat to/from Santa Margherita and Potofino. There is also a bus service, but the boat is a great way to get around the area. In the summer season the boats also go to Genova, Cinque Terre and Porto Venere.
We didn’t spend enough time in the town – it needs another visit. In the links on the side of the blog look for An Expat in Rapallo, a great blog with lots of local stories.
On another trip to Rapallo I saw this enormous plant about to flower. I would love to have been there when it did.
The deli photo looks like New Farm Deli!
I like the rotunda ceiling.
By: mary D on October 11, 2010
at 5:32 am
That octopus fountain is very interesting indeed and the bird reminds me of a human going out for a stroll 😛
By: Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella on October 11, 2010
at 11:53 am
Hi Debra,
Great photos of Rapallo! I’m investigating your super camera to replace the one I dropped in France. It wa so nice to meet you . . . thanks for spending a fun day with Pam, Ann and me!
By: Julie Wells on October 11, 2010
at 6:50 pm
Hi Julie,
My camera replaced one I dropped in Paris as well. There will be posts on Santa Margherita and Portofino soon
By: bagnidilucca on October 11, 2010
at 7:11 pm
LOVE THAT FOUNTAIN!
By: Moira Drexler on October 11, 2010
at 8:34 pm
loved the post!
and what a nice little castle!!!!
By: ilias/gl on October 12, 2010
at 1:19 am
Loved the rotunda & the octopus fountain Debra.
By: Anna Johnston on October 12, 2010
at 2:13 am