Ca' Datu

Ca' Datu

, Località Manie 10, Finale Ligure, Liguria.

High up on the hills above Finale Ligure, the B&B Ca’ Datu is immersed in a huge garden of riotous greenery. Just a couple of kilometres from the coast, this is the point where the Mediterranean vegetation meets to forest of the mountains. The garden is filled with the aromas of pine, olives, thyme and lavender.

Ca’ Datu is a bed and breakfast that has evolved from a stone-built rustic farmhouse, and remains filled with rural charm. The well-tended gardens are filled with lawns and all sorts of nooks and crannies where guests can settle down to enjoy the sunshine and the peace of the country. In front of the main buildings is the swimming pool, surrounded by a terrace with sunshades and loungers. There’s a playground for keeping the children amused, and they also have the opportunity to meet the friendly cats and dogs that live here.

Breakfasts are usually served buffet-style on the verandah in the garden. Everything is good and natural, and a great deal is home-made or home-produce from the farm. In cooler weather or for anyone who prefers it, the breakfast room is a warm haven with some lovely country furniture. There is also a guest lounge and library corner that continues the rustic theme.

Guest accommodation is in either of the two one-bedroom cottages or in a double or triple room. The cottages are furnished with 19th century antique furniture from the local area. Both are equipped with a kitchen private garden or terrace and a gazebo for out door dining. The double and triple rooms have large four poster beds draped with fine nets, and a typically Provencal style The en-suite bathrooms provide a walk-in shower and complimentary toiletries.

It’s only a short drive down to the beaches at Finale Ligure and Varigotti, which are popular areas throughout the summer. Out of season, they are popular with sailors, wind-surfers and divers. Inland from the narrow coastal strip of the Ligurian coast, the hills provide dramatic scenery for walkers and cyclists, the mountains are ideal for climbers and there are also many caves, some which have signs of human habitation dating back 60,000 years. Finalborgo is reputedly one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, and Varigotti, Noli and Le Spiagge are places not to be missed.