By Kate McWilliams

This summer, why not visit Liguria and become immersed in the array of thrilling cultural festivals taking place in this stunning region of Italy. From music and art festivals to street parties celebrating medieval battles from times gone by, Liguria has something to offer for all the family.

Occupying the north western coastal area of Italy, Liguria is a narrow curve of land abundant with world-famous beaches, stunning rocky coastline and enchanting countryside. It is home to the glamorous seaside resort of Portofino, the Cinque Terre and Genoa city, which harbours a glorious past as an Italian maritime republic. The majority of festivals and events held in the region tend to take place in Genoa city however there are some smaller but equally spectacular and interesting festivals taking place in towns and villages across Liguria.

For the perfect holiday romance – ‘The Fieschi’s Cake’ Festival, Lavagna – 14th August

On 14th August, Lavagna comes to life with dance and music commemorating the event of the Torta dei Fieschi (the Fieschi’s cake), where according to the legend, on Opizzo Fieschi’s wedding day in 1230, he gave an enormous cake as a present to the town. In the present day festival, the traditional cake is offered only to those who, in possession of a ticket, find his or her soul mate in possession of the matching ticket. The aim is to find the person of the opposite sex with an identical ticket so you can romantically receive your slice of Fieschi cake together.

For the food lover – “Pesto E Dintorni”, Lavagna – 8th to 10th October

This show has reached its 10th year and is dedicated to the Ligurian dressing and to the “magnificent seven”, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, pine nuts, pecorino cheese and parmesan cheese; the necessary and unique ingredients required to create the authentic pesto sauce. Pesto firms and those who produce the ingredients will be present at the festival, providing visitors with the finest samples of the world famous Italian sauce. In addition there will be the opportunity to taste many specialities which are traditional to the Ligurian region and learn more about the processes required to produce.

For the bargain hunter – Tuttantico Antique Festival – Autumn 2010

Within the fairs of Piazzale Kennedy tables will be overflowing with a huge variety of potential bargains and finds from furniture to jewellery, to carpets, sculptures and paintings. Antique specialists present at the festival will be on hand to give out tips as to what to look for when searching for a hidden treasure.

For the Jazz lover – The International Festival of Jazz, Mid July, La Spezia

The most historic of all the Italian jazz festivals, this annual festival takes place each within the town and offers wonderful, authentic music throughout the day on the main stage and long into the night on the club stage. This festival offers the perfect excuse to go and enjoy some of Italy’s most acclaimed jazz artists whilst exploring the picturesque town of La Spezia and the surrounding area.

Kate’s Tips

British Airways flies regularly from London Gatwick to Genoa

Alternatively RyanAir flies from London Stansted to Genoa on a daily basis

For further information on “In Liguria” please visit: www.turismoinliguria.it