Famous for its olive oil, its colourful houses by the sea and its dual character, Imperia was founded in 1923 thanks to the union of Oneglia (home of the Savoys) and the charming seaside town of Porto Maurizio.

We begin our adventure in Oneglia, in search of a fragrant pissalandrea, focaccia with tomato, anchovies and capers. A stroll around Piazza Dante, a visit to the Church of San Giovanni Battista then we head to the hill of Cascine and the astonishing Villa Grock, the splendid home and garden of the famous clown, today the Museo del Clown.

Next we head for Porto Maurizio, where we can sample the full seafaring tradition of Imperia in superb restaurants like Ristorante Sarri (one Michelin star) or Osteria Didù. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets in the Parasio neighbourhood, not forgetting the Oratory of San Pietro, with its stunning sea views, and the Basilica of San Maurizio, one of Liguria’s most magnificent churches.

From the top of the town we descend to the romantic and picturesque Lovers’ Walk, a ten-minute route high above the sea from Borgo Foce to Borgo Marina.

For a dip in the sea, the fine sandy beaches are mostly in the vicinity of Porto Maurizio, Borgo Prino and Borgo Marina; in Oneglia we can opt for the promenade at Borgo Peri and Koko Beach, the wilder Galeazza with its distinctive sail-shaped rock, or the large Rabina Beach, a favourite with fans of windsurfing, surfing and kiteboarding.

For five days every September, the sea comes alive for Vele d’Epoca: classic yachts and sailboats in the Porto Maurizio harbour, with regattas, events in the Naval Museum, shows at Villa Grock and evening fireworks displays over the sea.

To end the day, dinner might be a special treat with sea views at I Sognatori or Lorenzina Mare or, for something more traditional, back in Parasio at the Osteria dell’Olio Grosso.