La
Valle Argentina
Moving inland from the coastal towns of Sanremo and Arma di Taggia, the winding road that takes you through the Valley Argentina leads you on the discovery of tiny medieval villages, olive groves, traditional vineyards, local Ligurian cuisine and plenty of hiking opportunities for the nature enthusiast. Each village has something different to offer... from the Wine Bar and artesanal ice-cream of Badalucco to the Museum of Witchcraft in Triora.
Come and explore the
valley for yourselves!
Lavander Museum, Carpasio. Sanremo News, 2015.
Carpasio Lavander Museum, Sanremo News, 2015.
Why choose this area?
The valley is a peaceful haven for those that enjoy hiking and trekking, with endless
mountain paths and climbs
available.
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The area is also a popular destination with mountain bikers and road cyclists with the choice of both mountain trails and paths along the Riviera.
Gastronomy
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As is the case with much of Italy, this area has many culinary delights to offer, such as the Toma cheeses, made by shepherds with mountain herds, extra virgin olive oil of the Taggiasca variety, considered one of the most delicate in the world (click here to read more), and the local bread of Triora Pane di Triora, officially recognised as a traditional food product. Down by the coast you will find delicious seafood restaurants with views over the water, whilst inland the trattorie serve simple yet fresh Ligurian dishes, usually offering what is in season.
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Thin Paths: Journeys in and Around an Italian Mountain Village was written by Julia Blackburn, an English lady living in the area. It tells stories of people from the area and may be of interest for those considering a move to the Valley Argentina.
Local Life
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Much of the charm of these villages lies in the fact that they remain 'virtually untouched by either tourists or time', and local people carry on many traditions from the past. Those that work in the countryside work with difficult terrain to tirelessly cultivate the olive groves, vineyards and farm land available. Each village has it's own dialect, and it is not uncommon to meet people from the coast who have never ventured as far up the valley as Molini di Triora. Whilst many young people have had to move down to the coast or further afield for work, the area attracts tourists in the summer and does have a small population of expats.
A flavour of Local Events...
Strigora Witches Festival
September, Triora
The annual Strigora festival of witches is held each summer in the medieval villages of Triora, with market stalls and a theatre performance.
Invito Al Vino
Mid August, Badalucco
The Invito Al Vino is a wine festival, held each August in the village of Badalucco. As it's name suggests, the festival celebrates wine, offering an impressive selection of Italian wines, cheeses and music.
Square Boules, Realdo
August, Realdo
This unusual idea celebrated it's eighteenth anniversary this year in the village of Realdo. Teetering on the side of the mountain, almost at the border with France, Realdo celebrates a yearly tournament of square boules. Prizes can be won, followed by an evening of food, dancing and music.
