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Marco Samorè and Andrea Curti started the Italian Street Style brand P448 in 2014 even when others told them that the fashion market was uncertain and over-saturated. The two entrepreneurs of Forlì ignored the gloomy predictions and moved forward with the belief that they could promote Italian Street style and craftsmanship. Today, their handmade fashion sneakers are sold and distributed in China, Japan, Korea and P448 has showrooms and boutiques in Milan, New York, and Los Angeles.

Like many brilliant ideas, design for the P448 sneakers collection started with a pad and a pencil. The project outline and business plan were simply labeled “Project 448” and the name stayed.

From their very first presentation of men’s, women’s and kid’s sneakers, the Italian market responded immediately, and they quickly became popular with the fashion-savvy. This gave Samorè and Curti the confidence to incorporate and venture out toward other international markets.

In 2017, P448 luxury sneakers became available in the USA. Now with the online store, you can get P448 fashion sneakers shipped nearly anywhere in the world.

Today the brand can be found at over 1000 sales points in Italy (34%), Europe (33%) and the United States (33%). Among these are major department stores such as Harrods, Selfridges, La Rinascente, Printemps and Bloomingdale’s

For 2019 new plans have already begun. “This year we are planning to open our first single-brand stores starting in the United States, in cities that reflect the P448’s underground, contemporary and streetwear style, like Miami, Los Angeles and New York. Later we will arrive with stores in China and Hong Kong “, explains Wayne Kulkin, non-executive chairman.

CEO Paolo Griffo adds “In 2020 we would like to start opening some flagship stores in Europe – obviously also in Italy where in June we will present the new collection at Pitti Uomo”.

Sneakers are no longer just for sport; they have become a fashion statement in themselves offering both comfort and style.

P448 sneakers are not just like other sneakers. P448 has earned a reputation for its stylish, unconventional and even bold designs. Each pair is handmade, and each design is a limited edition. Sequins, metallic leather overlays with wild animal prints such as zebra, leopard and snakeskin give the classic sneaker an edgy, luxurious style. Prices for these unique designs and craftsmanship range from €169 up to several hundred.

Models are available in Low-top sneaker, Hi-top sneakers, Chunky sneakers and Running shoes.

Where to find P448 in Milan

Rinascente Department store
Via Santa Radegonda, 3
Piazza Duomo, Milan 20121

Corporate info:

P448 is owned by the Nothanks company , held by the Milanese holding company Panda for 35%, of which Griffo is CEO, by the two founders 35% and by StreetTrend Llc , founded by Wayne Kulkin, former CEO of international operations of Arzz International , for the remaining 30%. The P448 headquarters is based in Forlì where there is the style office, logistics and administration. In Milan, in addition to the new direct showroom, the e-commerce team is also based.

In 2017, the brand had sales of 5.7 million euros, and by 2018 it expects to close the year at 8.2 million euros, up 36% compared to the previous year. The goal is to reach 50 million euros in 2023.

Written by Celia Abernethy / milanostyle.com

You can find both long term or short term apartment rentals in Milan. You’ll want to know some of the basics such as what kind of rental contracts are available, what is included in the agreement, find houses that are furnished or unfurnished and how much renting an apartment in Milan will cost. Finding a place to rent abroad can be a daunting challenge, but the team at Rental Milan have been kind enough to share their tips and insights on renting apartments in Milan to make things a bit easier.

Congratulations! You have just gotten your dream job or been accepted to one of Milan’s top design schools! You will be working and studying in one of Europe’s most vibrant and fashionable cities. While looking for housing suitable for professional, or to rent an apartment in Milan as a student, you will want to find something in a safe neighborhood and conveniently located with access to public transportation, shopping and entertainment.

Here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about living in Milan:

Can foreigners rent an apartment in Italy?

Yes, but you must have the correct documentation. In Italy, rental contracts with a duration of longer than thirty days, must be declared and registered with the Minister of Finance (US equivalent of the IRS). Both the landlord and tenant must register a copy of the contract with an ID and an Italian “codice fiscale” (fiscal/social security code). Non-EU citizens need a “Permesso di soggiorno” (stay permit) which you get by registering with the local police authority. The contract registration fees are split 50/50 between landlord and tenant.

How much does an apartment cost in Milan?

An unfurnished, centrally located one-bedroom apartment (45 – 65 m²) in Milan can run anywhere from €850 to €1400 euro per month – just for the rent. By moving further away from the center, prices drop. Factors that impact the price are those such as: building age and facilities, vicinity to the center, public transportation, school district, supermarkets and other conveniences.

What are the rental contract conditions?

Many rental agreements are “4 + 4”, meaning 4-year contracts with the option to renew another 4 years. There are also “3 + 2”, 3-year contracts with the option to renew another 2 years. Before keys are handed over you must pay a deposit in advance which is usually the equivalent of two or three-months’ rent.

Living expenses like gas, electricity, internet, building maintenance expenses, registration fees, and TARSU (garbage tax) are rarely included in a rental contract.

Any damage or repairs are usually the tenant’s responsibility. It is always smart to clarify that before renting.

If you use a real estate agency or an online agency, there are usually additional fees or commissions to pay as well. Before signing any contracts, ask what other costs are involved.

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Can I find a furnished apartment in Milan with all expenses included?

When you are coming for a short term or unknown period, not having to deal with the hassle of decorating, buying new appliances and setting up utility contracts is a real relief. Ottavia and her team at Rental Milan carefully choose apartments that have everything set up and ready. All the bills: electricity, gas (cooking/heating/hot water), unlimited WiFi Internet, condo expenses, a monthly cleaning service, and a “Personal Assistance” service during your stay is all included. The personal assistance service is like having a private concierge to help with getting your documentation, finding a plumber or technician, dealing with noisy neighbors or simply getting local tips on dining and getting around.

She carefully chooses clean and comfortable places all around town that are ready to move in to. Houses are complete with bed linens and bath towels, kitchenware, cleaning products, refrigerator, washing machine and iron, vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, TV, and Wi-Fi. In order to keep the house clean and safe, there is no smoking nor pets.

How can I rent an apartment in Milan from abroad?

It’s not always possible to come to Milan in advance to go house hunting. One of the most common concerns is “How will I know if the apartment really looks like the pictures on the website?”

The best thing to do is to get in touch with a colleague or a fellow student already in Milan and ask them to go and take a look for you. It may cost you a nice dinner but it will be well worth it!

Reliable agencies will send you both their own amateur photos as well as professional ones so you can get a really good look at the place. It’s also a good idea to ask for some photos of the neighborhood.

You can do Virtual Apartment Tours with 360 degree interactive pictures on the Rental Milan website.

Check out the Rental Milan YouTube channel with video walk-throughs of apartments for rent in Milan.

Trying to rent a flat in Milan from across the world can be unsettling but being a little prepared in advance is always valuable. I hope these tips have been useful. Feel free to contact me with the form below for more information. Wishing you all the best on your search for a new home in Milan!

Article by Celia Abernethy for RentalMilan.com

Traveling through Europe is always an exciting experience, but it can be quite daunting for those who are traveling for the first time. Italy is a wonderful country with lots of culture and history; there’s plenty to see and do and backpacking is one of the best ways to do this with lots of adventures along the way. If you’re considering backpacking through Italy, it’s important to plan ahead so that you know what to expect. Conduct some research, learn how to stay safe, and focus on what you really want to see and do in order to make your backpacking trip through Italy one to remember.

Main Photo The Cinque Terre by Robin Joshua/Unsplash

Choose a Hiking Location in Italy

We are spoilt for choice in Italy as far as hiking locations go. There are miles and miles of trails and in some areas, you’d least expect. Here in Lombardy, the closest trails to Milan are just a short train ride away near Lake Como. The Larian Triangle is the mountainous area between the two branches of the lake, offering amazing panoramic views and trails for all levels of hikers. Another incredible hiking area is the Valtellina Valley, well-known for wine production. In Valtellina you can hike the pre-Alp trails through the terraced vineyards which are a UNESCO cultural heritage candidate.

If you are really ambitious, you may want to check out the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage trail from Canterbury to the Vatican that goes through the U.K. to France, Switzerland and throughout Italy. In Italy the Via Francigena goes through the Alps to the great plains to the Apennines in Tuscany and eventually arrives in Rome.

Other popular hiking trails can be found in the Dolomite mountains known for its picturesque glacial lakes. If you like the seaside, then the Cinque Terre in Liguria or the Sentiero degli Dei, or Path of the Gods on the Amalfi Coast are for you.

Planning Your Trip

If you’re hoping to travel through Italy on a budget, the good news is that this is entirely possible. Plans to save money should begin right from the very beginning. If you want to fly into Italy to start your trip, it’s a good idea to start planning well in advance, so that you’re in with a better chance of grabbing a good deal on plane tickets.

Although hiking is best in Springtime, traveling to Italy is more expensive during the high-season from March to September. To save money, travel to Italy between early October and February. Traveling off-season also allows you to see the extraordinary landscapes and cities without the crowds.

When looking for a flight don’t overlook the smaller low-cost airlines operating throughout Europe, you may find a deal by flying through smaller cities and airports.  To save money, it’s a good idea to fly into a smaller airport, like Rome Ciampino or Milano/Bergamo-Orio Al Serio rather than a large city one such as Rome Leonardo Da Vinci or Milan Malpensa.

Many travel booking sites will also allow you to sign up for email notifications so that you’re the first to know when the prices go down. And, plan your time of travel too – flights on a weekday are usually cheaper than those on a weekend.

Train travel is very easy in Italy. The fast trains Freccia Rossa or Italo are excellent options for intercity travel. For example, from Milan to Rome, is now only 3 hours. By booking train tickets in advance you can save up to 50% than booking at the last minute.

Make Sure You’re Prepared

Once your travel itinerary is planned, it’s time to start preparing for your trip. Make sure that you have a good travel insurance policy, so you have peace of mind that you’re covered if you fall ill or sustain an injury. And, you’ll need a strong, sturdy backpack, especially if you are planning to live out of it for a while. Italy is home to many camping sites that are perfect for staying at throughout the summer if you want to explore more of the country. Check out the best backpacking sleeping bags for travelers who enjoy camping. Lastly, make sure that you are prepared for the weather when you arrive. If you’re planning your trip in the summer, Italy has a very warm climate, but during the colder months (January-February), you can expect more rain and even snow.

Check Out Accommodation Options

Italy is a very popular destination for backpackers, so there are plenty of cheap or even free of charge accommodation options available for those who are looking to see as much of the country as possible on a budget. You will want to look for lodges and cabins, in Italian called Rifugio or Baita which are usually budget friendly. In the major cities, you will find a wide range of hostels and budget hotels that you can use as a base, or if you prefer to learn more about the culture and meet some of the friendly locals, you could try couch surfing or stay in an Airbnb. Try and find accommodation that is just outside of the major cities, but close to transportation options, as this usually works out cheaper.

Buy Tickets in Advance

Italy has several amazing historical sites, cathedrals, museums, and much more for travelers to see and enjoy. However, at popular sites such as the Colosseum or Vatican Museum, for example, you’ll often find huge queues and you could be waiting for hours. So, it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance. You can find tickets from official tour operators online and it’s usually cheaper to pre-book through the website compared with paying at the box office on the day. A skip the queue ticket will give you more time to explore the attraction of your choice.

Do you have any tips for travelers planning to backpack through Italy? We’d love to hear from you!

 

If you are planning to come to  Italy to study at one of the many prestigious design institutes in Milan, you may want to make some of the following considerations about studying abroad. 

According to a UNESCO report, as of 2016, there were 5.1 million international students from all over the world. While only a small percentage of the world’s university student population (which the same report cites at 207 million), this small pool of students is more likely than their domestically-educated counterparts to become part of their own country’s elites and they’re also far more likely to land higher-paying jobs when they join the workforce.

However, there are also many drawbacks to studying abroad, and it’s clear not everyone is cut out for it, even if they do have the money. If you’re planning to study abroad, here are a few things you need to know.

Above photo by Gregory Hayes / Unsplash

Benefits of Studying Abroad

1.) You will experience new cultures

Not only will you be interacting with locals from your host country, but you will also probably have to spend a lot of time with other international students who are probably from countries other than your own. Depending on how you approach things, this can be a positive or negative experience. However, the vast majority of foreign students do report enjoying their experience.

2.) Your degree may be worth more back home

While this may not always be the case, many HR managers and recruiters will be impressed to see that you studied abroad. This is especially true if you have a relevant internship or took a job while you were studying.  This may not always be solely because you went abroad, but rather because they may perceive earning a degree abroad as a sign that you can cope with unique challenges.

3.)  You will get to travel while you’re still young

Travel’s great at any age. However, you’re only young once. Presuming that you are under 30, the age of most foreign students, you are likely to be at your peak physical condition and are able to enjoy the sights, flavors, aromas, and sounds of your host country without immediately flopping into bed at 6 PM.

4.) You’ll make friends from all over the world

While you will undoubtedly also meet people who annoy you from different parts of the world, it’s worth it for lasting friendships with people who will be able to give you their unique take on life.

Drawbacks of Studying Abroad

1.) You’ll be in culturally awkward situations

You can prepare for it all you want, but there will be plenty of times that your host country will seem completely alien and unrelatable.  Culture shock should be taken as an inevitability that you could work around and eventually master. But it won’t always be a picnic when you’re still feeling your way around an unfamiliar country.

2.) It can be incredibly expensive

The fact is, not everyone can afford the expenses associated with being an international student. Even with most kinds of scholarships, overseas schooling tends to be expensive, regardless of your country of origin or your target country. Foreign students from less-developed countries tend to be members of their own country’s ruling classes and even Western European and American foreign students tend to come from upper-middle-class backgrounds.

As a matter of fact, many foreign students are unable to finish their schooling without taking at least one job themselves, something that may not normally be the case had they stayed home in their own countries. This is especially important given that the cost of higher education in the United States and the United Kingdom, the most popular destinations for foreign students, is expensive by any measure.

3.) You’ll probably get sick – or worse

Foreign students are at a higher risk for illness and accidents compared to locals. The unfamiliar pathogens and climates students encounter in their host countries will normally take time to be acclimatized to. In the meantime, it’s quite common for students to be quite ill and need medical attention at some point. It’s not just the germs either. Differences in traffic laws and safety regulations can also contribute to a higher than normal accident rate for international students.

This makes getting an international health insurance policy a top priority for anyone staying overseas for extended periods. A policy from a specialized insurer like Now Health International will give international students lower rates and wider coverage, helping them deal with any untoward illness or accident while helping them save on their premiums.

Have any questions about moving to and studying in Milan? Feel free to Contact Milanostyle.com

The fashion industry isn’t just filled with talented designers, but also designers who care about the communities around them. The same can be said for fashion lovers around the world; they are in tune with the latest social movements and are eager to participate in supporting good causes.

For many designers and fashion brands, their fame and success are instruments to use in promoting causes like sustainable fashion, women’s rights, and much more. They also have unique ways of conveying the key messages they want to get across.

Runway with a Cause

The runway is a fantastic way for fashion designers to raise awareness for causes they support. There have been many runway shows where causes like breast cancer awareness and support for local women became the highlight of the events.

Indian designers Shivan & Narresh, whose brand is one of the best-selling brands in India and other parts of Asia, launched a line of mastectomy blouses as a way to raise awareness for breast cancer. The line of blouses is also made available for free to underprivileged women who have had a mastectomy.

In another occasion, Women’s March co-chairs were invited to Mara Hoffman’s runway show in New York. The show featured Hoffman’s Fall 2017 collection, which was designed to convey one key message, “it’s not about the clothes the women were wearing, but about the women wearing the clothes.”

Sustainable Products

Another common way in which designers can support different causes is through the fashion pieces they produce. Sustainable fashion and eco-friendliness are the most popular causes supported by designers through their fashion lines.

The most popular example is Stella McCartney, who set up her entire luxury fashion brand around the concept of ethical and sustainable fashion. She is known for looking fashionable and stylish without sacrificing her moral or personal codes and beliefs.

As part of her main message, McCartney uses only sustainable materials, including organic cotton and recycled nylon. Her entire collection of beautiful fashion pieces is also skin- and fur-free as part of her support for animal rights. She even had a replacement material for wool developed, all while partnering with organizations like Fashion Positive and supporting their causes.

The Indie Fashion Scene

This type of support for a cause doesn’t just come from luxury designers and mainstream brands. Indie designers from around the world are also helping communities and important causes gain more awareness and complete their missions more effectively.

Accessories like custom prints and tees are not uncommon. Designers also hand out lapel pins, custom bracelets, and other accessories in support of different social movements. Accessories are particularly good for raising awareness, because they can be mixed and matched with different fashion pieces.

Other designers create custom products for a specific cause, usually in limited numbers, as a way to raise funds and awareness at the same time. We often see a line of black dresses, custom shoes, or off-shoot labels designed for a cause.

Social Media for Better Reach

To top it all off, there is a big shift among fashion designers towards using their social media accounts to promote the best causes. Many fashion designers and labels have millions of followers who will support the causes they promote, making social media an integral part of today’s best social movements and campaigns.

Kate Spade, for example, empowers women from around the world to help with their off-shoot label On Purpose. The move is then posted on social media to raise awareness for the challenges – personal and financial – faced by women around the world.

View this post on Instagram

 

women empowering women. that’s the heart of our #on_purpose label. for it, we build suppliers that help transform communities by empowering its primary agents of change: women. since 2014, we’ve been in masoro, rwanda, and a ripple of positive changes are taking place. hear four women’s stories in our new short film, “i am the heroine of my own story,” releasing tomorrow, march 8. (look at stories for a sneak peek!) #internationalwomensday

A post shared by kate spade new york (@katespadeny) on Mar 7, 2018 at 7:12am PST

This shift, combined with the other actions we discussed in this article, means fashion designers – and the fashion industry as a whole – have more power in supporting movements and making a difference. Fashion and philanthropy will continue to be inseparable for years to come.

 

There is a saying that the world is a book and those people who don’t travel only read one page. And that is so true in so many ways. Travel can be a good thing for so many reasons, and can add plenty more ‘pages’ to your book. You can learn so much about other people, other cultures, other environments, and also about yourself. But where to travel to next? Of course, your destination can play a part in what you’re able to and the things that you’ll be see and learn. So what the destinations that are already on your bucket list?

One place that ticks the boxes for a whole host of things from culture, to food, and good weather is Turkey. Have you ever thought about adding it to your bucket list? If you are looking for somewhere new, then Turkey could be the place to go. Here are some of the reasons why Turkey can be a great place to visit, and can give you plenty to ‘read’ as you explore.

The People

It can seem like you say ‘the people’ about a lot of different places, because wherever you travel, people can feel like the nicest in the world. But when you’re talking about Turkey, you are talking about some really hospitable people that make you feel most welcome. The tourist industry means a lot to the people of Turkey, so they do embrace it and make the most of it. They will come up and chat to you and offer tea, as well as going out of their way to help you. If you are planning on solo travel or travel with friends where you may need some help, then Turkey can be a good destination of choice as the people are friendly and will want to help.

The Food

The food in Turkey is quite unlike any other. The reason being is that it takes influences from all over the world, due to the unique location of Turkey. Technically it is classed as somewhere in the middle east, so it does take influences from the middle east. But that area of the world does have some strong European influence, as well as Asian. So the food combines a little bit of all of that. Kebabs, stews, pizzas, breads, and other regional specials are all pretty common to be found in Turkey. Most meals come with salad and are usually served with tea and anise seeds at the end to refresh your mouth and clean your palette.

Getting Off The Beaten Track

Turkey is a really large country, so there are many things to see and do; the choice of things to do is so vast. There are the main attractions for tourists to the country, of course, with places like Bodrum and Istanbul being the top choices. But even in the places that are most common for tourists, you could look for a private tour guide in Istanbul Turkey to show you the things that are a little more unusual or that you might not know about otherwise. When you wander off the beaten track a little, wherever in the country that you are, you can really experience the real Turkish hospitality. Places like Eastern Turkey is pretty much a tourist-free zone, so exploring off in places that are less touristy can mean experiencing the best foods, people, and stunning landscapes as well.

History and Culture

There is a lot of history and culture to see and experience in Turkey. Take the Ruins of Ani, for example. These ruins are set out on the eastern side of the country, right nearby to Armenia. The area is so stunning and the landscape is something that is completely stunning. The ruins are in good condition, so it means that you can see some history right there as it has been so well preserved. It can be worth the trek out there because they are in such good condition.

Hiking

There are many beautiful beaches to visit in Turkey, and other than its larger cities, the beaches tend to be what Turkey is most known for. But did you know that Turkey is also a great location for hiking? Take the Marioland-Flintstone’ish landscapes, for example. They are a based around the Cappadocia region and are a truly a sight to behold. There are plenty of different walks that you can do as there are several different valleys and rock formations, with all different colors and shapes.

Cost and Value

Part of Turkey is classed as Europe technically, so it can naturally be seen as a place that is pretty expensive because of its connotations with Europe. But that isn’t the case at all. It isn’t a super budget destination like areas of southeast Asia, for example, but it is much better for cost than compared with European vacations. You can eat pretty cheaply and travel through taxis and trains is really cheap too. The quality of what you get is pretty good as well.

Shopping

If you want a really unique experience unlike any other, then spending the day in one of the many bazaars of Turkey can be a really fascinating experience; it is really a sight to behold! To start off with, the whole place is really hustling and bustling with all of the people and the chatter. Then think about the smells and sounds and energy of the markets and bazaars is an amazing place. There are quieter places in the less touristy spots of the country, but the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is the busiest and biggest so could be worth a visit for something really different.

The Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea by the majority of Turkey is really a stunning thing to see. The beaches look good and have plenty of white sand beaches and clear seas. The watersports and boat trips around are a must in the country too. From some areas like Bodrum and Gumbet, you can even get a boat trip out to Crete, one of the Greek islands, as it is located so close. They do day trips out there so it can be a fun thing to do to mark off two countries in one trip.

Spirituality

Turkey is a country that is made up with a majority of Muslims. And the Islamic faith is really obvious in the country and all that goes into it. You can hear the calls to prayer far and wide, and can even go in and explore mosques when it isn’t time for prayers. If you’ve not been to a county like this before, then it is interesting to see what they get up to and learn more about the country and the religion.

If you are interested in a country that has a lot to offer but that is pretty different to any other, then Turkey could be the place that you could make a trip out to. Eastern Turkey is the best place to be for some quieter trips. But if you are wanting to do some more of hiking, walking, exploring busier cities, and enjoying the stunning Mediterranean Sea, then sticking to the western side of the country is the best place to go. It would be great to hear what you think and what you think about Turkey; have you been before? It is a pretty fascinating country, and could take some time to explore if you want to see all different aspects of it.

 

Framura, on the Ligurian coast, sitting on the Levante Bay neighboring Cinque Terra, is a three-hour drive from Milan and the perfect place for fresh air, fresh fish and the fresh waters of the Mediterranean.

Escaping the city

Well, we’re not in Rome, so I’ll slightly modify the old adage: “When in Milan, do as the Milanese, and go away for the weekend.”

As the cold frost of winter starts warming up and the days start getting longer, it is quite common for the Milanese to go away for the weekend. In some ways, it’s nice, as you can enjoy a lazy Sunday in the city and take it easy. But, when the weather is pleasant, and springtime is in the air, a trip to the sea is a great way to start up the new season.

We were looking for a place that would satisfy three criteria:

• A place that was off the beaten path where we wouldn’t run into swarms of people
• A place we could do some sport to jumpstart our Spring/Summer fitness routine
• A place we could eat well, yet healthily (and maybe splurge on a treat or two!)

We found all of this in Framura, Liguria, a coastal village neighboring Cinque Terre.

Coastal town & lush landscape

Found between Portofino and Cinque Terra, Framura is a village dating back to medieval times set on the rocky coastline of Liguria. The village expands from the sea to Monte Serro up to 400 meters above sea level. It’s made up of the beaches below and five hamlets: Anzo, Ravecca, Setta, Costa, Castagnola that sit along the winding road which snakes up the mountain. Historically, each hamlet was once considered an independent settlement within a protected castle; hence, the main church being dubbed ecclesia Sancti Martin infra mura (Saint Martin church within the walls).   There are also three towers, once used as lookout points to spot pirates and other enemies arriving by sea.

Framura is one of the towns that has been selected by the prestigious association I Borghi Più Belli d’Italia (The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy) which carefully chooses a limited number of small towns throughout the country that offer certain qualities and standards. There is a gorgeous new boardwalk along the sea and a cycle lane connecting the towns of Levante Bay. The entire area is abundant with untouched nature and hiking trails. There are superb restaurants serving traditional cuisine, fresh fish and local delicacies.

Getting there

We set off for the 229 km drive from Milan on a Saturday morning about 10 a.m. in late March and luckily did not run into any traffic. If you go in the spring or summer months, it would be wise to leave early, as there will be more traffic heading in the Italian Riviera direction. Get the A7 highway to the A12 highway (See road directions below). We stopped along the way for a coffee break, and then a bit further on, we stopped to get some Focaccia, a specialty from this region. Focaccia is a soft, fluffy, salty bread with cheese (very different from pizza).  We sat by the seaside for a bit and then arrived in Framura in the early afternoon.

Hotel Silvia

After winding up the road to the hamlet Costa, we got to the parking lot of our hotel, Albergo Silvia. The entrance is an unassuming bar/café, the kind of place you would pop into for quick coffee or to sit and rest for a few minutes under the shady umbrellas for a refreshing drink. But as the weekend progressed, we discovered that café Silvia had more of a tavern atmosphere to it, where friends would meet and chat, play a game of Bridge, or have a beer after a tennis match and enjoy some time together.  It never got noisy or rowdy; in fact, it was very quiet during the night. Through a door, down a hall there are rooms. We were in room n.10 at the far end of the corner. There was a view of a back garden and we could see the sea in the distance. What I loved about the hotel room was the cleanliness and the excellent water pressure. Water pressure is one of my pet peeves when staying in a hotel. I like a shower with elbowroom and good pressure- this had both. The staff was friendly and we had a comfortable stay there.

The Boardwalk

We checked into the hotel and met our guide Enrico, a native born local and historian. He drove us down the narrow winding road to the boardwalk. Newly inaugurated last year after facing many challenges due to the rugged terrain, the stone and wooden promenade runs along the cliff side offering breathtaking views of the gulf.   It’s a pleasant walk along public access beaches where you can set down your blanket or beach chair. The beaches are pebbles and stones, so wear your sandals or beach loafers.   Read more about the beaches of Framura

An authentic zero kilometer experience

We started getting a bit peckish, so Enrico drove us up 300 m above sea level to the agroturismo (farm house inn) called La Foce del Prato run by the Bennati family. There was a wedding reception that day and we couldn’t sit in the main dining room, so we were invited to the wine making shed and had our aperitif  surrounded by fermentation vessels! They not only have a full vineyard, there is a complete vegetable garden for all their fresh produce, goats, rabbits, chickens and other livestock. It’s a fully functioning vineyard and farm. Everything they serve, they get from their own land or from their neighbors’. Mrs. Bennati and her daughter prepared plates of local delicacies; anchovies, homemade breads, pizza and focaccia, and a savory chard pie. Meanwhile Mr. Bennati decantered a bottle of his 2015 red wine which he explained was 70% Merlot and the remaining 30% of Cabernet, Cherry and other grapes. He also offered a taste of his white wine and Passito (sweet dessert wine) with homemade Fig Pie. More, please! Everything was homemade quality and flavors you cannot find in the big cities. They were all so welcoming, it felt like we were visiting relatives rather than having an early evening aperitivo at a restaurant!

It started getting dark and the wedding party had already gone home; it was time to go. La Foce del Prato also has rooms, which would be very convenient after a full meal and bottle of wine! Out of curiosity, I asked to see one and was shown rooms A and B, which are the nicest ones with private little gardens.

Dinner for two at the Hotel Silvia

We headed back to the hotel where we rested before going down to dinner. There are many dining options in Framura offering fresh produce, fresh fish, local wines and homemade breads and desserts. We had done some research and had found that the Ristorante Silvia at our hotel was in the top five. A work colleague and our guide both confirmed it.

The Silvia restaurant is on the lower level of the hotel. A life-size boat decorates the dining room. Colorful ceramics and nautical items decorate the walls and a speckled marbled pavement lead us to our table in the corner. The lighting is set perfectly; not dim, not harsh.  Our server had menus in her hand but recited it to us before she even gave them to us. Fresh pasta, fresh fish, everything homemade and locally grown. I always like reading and studying a menu, as if the words will pop off the page and tell me what to order. But my husband, Fabio always has faith in the recommendations of servers, who in this case is the chef’s wife. She tells us “I only recommend what I have fresh. If I don’t have fresh fish, I will recommend something else. We only use fresh ingredients.”

Pesto is a specialty of Liguria, and one of my favorites, so I had to have some. We had homemade pasta with pesto, homemade pasta with a rich seafood sauce, whole grilled anchovies with rosemary and lemon and breaded and fried anchovies. Accompanied by a lightly, bubbly, white house wine and for dessert a meringue covered in chocolate sauce. The chef, Stefano stayed in the kitchen attending to his orders, but the American tourist in me wanted a picture with the man who filled my belly. We thanked him in person for a wonderful meal and headed back up to the room for the night.

 

 

Day 2 – Wake up call

The bells of San Martin ring at 7:30 am. The tower is far enough away and the chimes are low, reminding you that you are in an old medieval town.  A breakfast buffet was served in a separate nook near the bar with fresh brioche, homemade cakes, fruit, yogurt and even focaccia.   We were told it is very common to have salty focaccia for breakfast; people even dunk it in their coffee. They call it “rompe digiuno”, which means “break the fast”, in other words, “breakfast”.

Run off the calories

One of our goals this weekend was to jump start our summer exercise routine, so we went for an early morning run along the cycle path. The lanes are inside the old train tunnels and connect Framura to the towns along the Levante Bay. You can rent a bike at the station, run or walk it. Access to the pathway is at the Porticciolo marina. Go up the steps or use the elevator. We jogged the distance to the next town Bonassola and return, which was more or less 6k total. To go the full distance to Levante and back would be about 11k. The tunnel seems long and dark, but about every 500 meters or so, there are stretches of open porticos looking out to the rocky shoreline and cobalt waters below. There are even benches to sit, rest and meditate. The Porta Pidocchio beach is off the bike path and is a quiet, secluded beach.

The Framura food trail & village tour

Time to replenish those burnt calories! The food tour is organized by The Framura Tourist Association and is guided by Enrico, local guide and historian. We had done a mini-tour the previous day and today we will be seeing more of the town.  You can book the food tour privately or in a group through the association website. The tour takes you through the old village of Costa, and on some days a visit to the antique tower of San Martin is on the program. After climbing sixty, steep, stone steps, we visited the top of the windy tower, which has spectacular views of both sides with panoramic vistas of the sea and the mountain. The tour continues down the historical, narrow streets of town, which are closed to traffic. The paths zigzag alternating between flat and downhill cobblestoned alleyways and steps. We pass through the neighborhoods and of course, with only 600 residents, Enrico knows everyone and cordially stops to greet people along the way. I asked “What happens when somebody in town gets married? Is the whole town invited?” He chuckled, “Ha! Si! E’ un bel problema!” (Ha! Yes, it’s a real problem!”).

The Good Stuff

We made our first gastronomic stop at Enrica Le Cose Buone (Enrica’s Good Things) a mini market and delicatessen. Everyday Enrica wakes up early and prepares daily specials that are ready to take away or she’ll heat it up for you and you can eat in her garden overlooking the town below.  The shop counter is full of appetizing temptations. We tried a little bit of everything; Lasagna al pesto, Focaccia with squacquerone cheese, chick peas and chard, cuttlefish and peas, and a taste of octopus and potato.  Of course it’s not complete without a local, vermentino white wine; Colli di Luni from nearby La Spezia. To top it off, a taste of her homemade cakes and her specialty Crema di Limone, a creamy liquor made with cream, milk, lemon and alcohol. Like the sign says; “Le Cose Buone”!.

Back to the trail

Enrico expertly tells us about the history, traditions and folklore of the villages. We pass the second tower, and then through Casella which was once the ancient toll crossing for merchants and travelers descending to the sea or acceding to the mountain. The path passes through Ca’ di Mare vineyard where we meet Emilio, the wine maker.  He only stopped to say hello and went straight back to work.  It’s early in the season and the vines are still bare, but with the nice weather on its way, they will be lush and blooming in no time. We continued the walk down the hill pausing to take in the view.

The hamlet of Anzo was very intriguing. The roadway widened and in the midst of the rugged terrain and humble rural landscape there was an entire neighborhood of grand villas where the noblemen and aristocrats once had their dwellings. The buildings are still used as homes today. We meandered along the alleyways and narrow lanes passing the third watchtower and then lastly exiting out near the station.

Down the road from the Framura station is the Porticciolo marina. On the rock face above the marina is the L’Agave restaurant. It was time for lunch, so what better place than above the cliff overlooking the marina?

The catch of day & local wine

L’Agave  is an upscale wine bar and restaurant at the marina called il Porticciolo in Framaura.  The view is extraordinary from the terraces overlooking the colorful fishing boats below and out to the rock of the Madonna (Virgin Mary), who vigilantly protects the gulf of Framura. We were looking forward to trying some Ca’ di Mare wine, and without a doubt, they offer all the wines of the local producers. It was chilled to the perfect temperature and was smooth and supple; incredibly enjoyable!  There just happened to be a table of sommeliers next to us and they approved highly of our selection!   A wine tasting is not complete without house specialties and a lesson on the traditions of Ligurian cooking.

Marco Rezzano, owner and chef of L’Agave, showed us a huge string of garlic, explaining that only fresh local ingredients can be used. With a wink, he proudly pointed out that because of his location; he gets first dibs on the fresh fish that comes into the port.  He prepared fresh anchovies with organic olive oil and garlic, amazing calamari with artichokes, the most awesome octopus I have ever tried and “just because he felt like it” a plate of spaghetti topped with anchovy and dusted with breadcrumbs. The unforgettable finale was the Cinque Terre Sciacchetra’ (pronounced SHA-ke-TRA) a sweet dessert wine from the Bonfiglio winery. It was a 2014 and we were told, that there were only 1000 bottles made. Somewhere out there in the world, there are 999 other bottles that have been (or will be) enjoyed by some very lucky people!  It was a true honor to have tried Sciacchetra’. It is an amber, golden sweet wine with hints of spice that goes down so smoothly it takes effort to control the next sip. Dessert was a traditional recipe he learned from his grandmother. Fritelle di Castagne, (Chestnut fritters) made with chestnuts and chestnut flour, sprinkled with sugar.

Tennis and sunset

The running and walking was not enough for my husband, Fabio. He had to play tennis too! We met Francesca Lanata, director of the Framura sports club and F.I.T. (Italian Tennis Federation) tennis instructor. The tennis club is in Costa, high above the hill overlooking the sea. There’s a beach volleyball court, soccer field and two hard-court tennis courts. I sat enjoying the match with other local spectators. The sun started setting as the two contestants shook hands at the end of the match.

It was time to head back to Milan. We would certainly recommend a visit to Framura!

 

Some additional Information

How to get there

By Car

From Milan, 229 km – get the A7 autostrada (highway) going south toward Genova (Genoa), then get the A12 autostrada (highway) going south toward La Spezia and exit at Deiva Marina and follow the signs that say “Framura loc. Costa” about 15 minutes.

From Genova (Genoa), 69 km – get the A12 autostrada (highway) going south toward La Spezia and exit at Deiva Marina and follow the signs that say “Framura loc. Costa” about 15 minutes.

From Pisa, 108 km – get the A12 autostrada (highway) going north toward Genova (Genoa) and exit at Deiva Marina and follow the signs that say “Framura loc. Costa” about 15 minutes.

By Train

There is a train station in Framura, on the Genova-Pisa line. From Milan the fastest route is to Sestri Levante and then change to a local train to Framura (there are other connections but not as frequent). The station is near the seaside and you can get a bus to upper Framura (Anzo, Ravecca, Setta, Costa and Castagnola).

Tip: When booking a hotel or house rental, ask what part of Framura it is in so you can ask the bus driver to let you know where to get off or simply ask them if they have a pick-up service.

By Plane

Fly to Cristoforo Colombo Genova Airport (distance 74.7 km.) or Galileo Galilei Pisa Airport (114 km.).

Airlines that fly to Genova: Ryan Air, Air France, KLM, Luftansa, Alitalia, Volotea
Airlines that fly to Pisa: Ryan Air, Norwegian, British, Alitalia, Qtar, Easy Jet, Eurowings

From the airport, rent a car (see driving directions above) or book the Framura shuttle bus 

What to do and see

• Beaches
• Framura Food Trail
• Guided tours
• Walking & Hiking
• Cycling
• Scuba and Kayak rentals
• Tennis, Soccer, Volleyball at Framura Sport Center
• Eat & Drink   🙂

Contact the Framura Tourist Association

Where to eat

• Hotel Restaurant Silvia
• Enrica Le Cose Buone
• La Foce del Prato
• L’Agave

Where to stay

• Hotel Silvia
• La Foce del Prato
• Antico Hospitale

See more hotels and apartment rentals for Framura on Booking.com

All photos by Celia Abernethy/Milanostyle.com.

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Many thanks to the Associazione Framura Turismo who kindly invited Milanostyle.com to experience the colors and flavors of their town. All opinions of the author’s experience are her own and have not been influenced in anyway.

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