Mum and dad had driven from Beaune in France to meet me in Genova where they had been on a wine tour with Brendan Moore (www.wine-liasisons.com). They were driving the car down so mum and I could travel further down south to start our culinary adventure! I showed them around the city, we drank a bottle of wine and ate some deliciously runny cheese that they had bought from France for dinner and went to bed. Dad was flying back home from Milan the next day, so we decided to start our journey as soon as he left, towards Santa Margherita which is about 45 mins south of Genova. Here we planned to meet my cousin Emily as she also was driving from a tennis camp in France. The timings were perfect.
After a sad goodbye, we sped off. Thank god for sat nav... Although even with it we still couldn't find Santa Margherita. We were lost and it was clearly very obvious as a rather cuddly man on a moped was asking us to pull over so he could help us find our way. He kindly drove in front of us, directing us the whole way.
We eventually found the gorgeous little town and after parking and sussing out which hotel seemed the most reasonable, Emily had arrived.
We decided to book Hotel Helios which had a pool, sun loungers, beautiful views and breakfast included for £190 per night for 3 people. A bargain for the location so we ended up booking 2 nights.
We lazed around for the day, soaking in the sun and exploring our surroundings. It was beautiful with a hidden square, boutique shops and the most vibrant vegetable stalls.
We also discovered abustling restaurant which had a que of people lined outside. This must be worth it! So we ended up having a drink next door and the most amazing nibbles we've had so far whist we waited for a table to open up.
40 mins later the table was ready. It was the most perfect dinner. I ordered the fresh fish of the day and a side of vegetables. The fish delicately flaked off the bone and the vegetables were covered with a garlic and olive oil blanket. Mum, who ordered the pizza had food envy.
The family run restaurant was buzzing. The waiters were bubbly and extremely helpful with the wine, menu and language. The owner looked identical to Vito Corleone from 'The Godfather'. It was a perfect evening.
The next day was again a lazy one. We wandered the streets and found another little hidden street and candle lit restaurant for dinner, Restaurant d' Michelle. Good wine. Gnocchi. Seafood linguine. More wine. Candles. The setting was beautiful. We were happy. And ready for the next destination. PARMA.
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