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 Portofino is about 6 Kms.
(3 3/4 miles) south of Santa Margherita Ligure, along one of the most
beautiful coastal roads in all Italy. Favored by the yachting set, the
resort is in an idyllic location on a harbor, where the water reflects all
the pastel-washed little houses running along it. In the 1930s, it enjoyed a
reputation with artists; over the next few decades, the town became known as
a celebrity hideout. Lots of famous names could be seen arriving by yacht,
lounging poolside at the luxury hotels, and vacationing in private villas in
the hills, including Rex Harrison and Elizabeth Taylor. The Splendido Hotel
alone has hosted such illustrious guests as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor,
Ernest Hemingway, Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, Aristotle Onassis, Clark
Gable, and John Wayne. Portofino might not have such star power today, but
some rich and powerful people still occupy those private villas, coexisting
right alongside all the tourists who pour in by the busloads during the day.
And they do pour in -- Portofino is almost too beautiful for its own good,
and the crowds can be amazing in the high season.
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Nervi is a pleasant resort of
the Genovese Eastern Coast, well known for the beauties of the nature as
well as for its mild climate. Set between the mountains and the sea, it
offers both sour and particularly sweet views.