Imperia: a spectacular stretch of the Italian Riviera
The spectacular Province of Imperia, squeezed between the Alps and the French border in northern Italy, is nothing short of breath-taking. Its topography of mountains tumbles down into the azure sea, making this part of Liguria particularly scenic. If you're lucky enough to nab a waterfront Province of Imperia vacation rental, you won't be far from the gorgeous sandy beaches and the seemingly endless possibilities for sea-faring fun. You could be hoisting the sails of your chartered yacht to cruise along the coast, taking to the water on paddle boards, or donning a mask and flippers to discover what hides below.
There's more to Imperia than sun, sand and sea
It's not all about sun, sand and sea when you stay in a Province of Imperia vacation rental. Those who have an interest in maritime history should check out the Museo Navale del Ponente Ligure, which chronicles the region's rich ship building heritage. Alternatively, the Museo dell'Olivo looks to illustrate the history of olive growing and its importance to the local economy. The 18th-century Duomo di Oneglia San Giovanni Battista is a beautiful example of Genoese Baroque architecture and is well worth a few hours of discovery, as is the Logge di Santa Chiara, which overlooks the Ligurian Sea.
Endless beachy fun in Imperia
Without a doubt, the biggest draw is the beaches that line up along the Italian Riviera and they're not short on them. It's tempting to spend your entire vacation stretched out on the sand, but those who aren't beach-dwellers can find a diverse list of water sports, including snorkeling and windsurfing. If you've got deep pockets, consider hiring a yacht and skipper for the day to cruise along the spectacular coastline, though if that sounds a little wallet-busting you can always watch one of the exciting summer regattas instead. Back on dry land, you can lace up your boots to trek through the Bussana Vecchia.
Summer is busiest in Imperia, but not always best
Summer season is by far the busiest time for Province of Imperia vacation rentals. Between July and August, the region is awash with local and foreign vacationers, who crowd along the Italian Riviera beaches. If you're looking to save a few bucks and avoid the throng of travelers, try and score a rental in late spring or early summer, when the climate is still warm and bright, and the rental prices drop considerably. Winter has its own charms and with very few visitors, you'll pick up a rental at rock bottom prices, but be warned that much of this seasonal vacation spot closes down.
Imperia is a hidden wildlife hotspot
While the Province of Imperia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you're thinking of wildlife, there are a surprising number of critters along this sun-soaked coastline. While there has been a decline in numbers, with a little luck you may catch a glimpse of a humpback whale or playful dolphin and you'll certainly see several types of seabird, including cormorants and greedy gannets. Back on dry land, the province's habitats are home to badgers, beech martins and wild boar, not to mention deer, which thrive here after being successfully reintroduced.