Looking for something like Javea, Spain but in Italy ...

[MillieMummy]

We love Spain and we love Javea but want to visit Italy this year. Ideally we want self catering within walking distance of a beach, pool, bars and restaurants. A little culture thrown in would be good too.

Does such a place exist for less than £1,500 a week?

Pisa, very near the coast, some nice beach towns nearby.

i meet a lady recently who worked high up in a big travel company and i couldnt believe she went to the same place every year, near Javea, when she could go anywhere in the world probably for free.. she said if you have found somewhere you love why search the world trying to recreate it when you know exactly where it is in the first place..
got me thinking!

We once stayed here on the Italian Riviera. Huge pool, 5 mins walk to the beach and shops and restaurants. We flew to Nice and got the train. Genoa would work as well. Easy to get up and down the coast by train and bus. There is a water park in Ceriale too.

Can't believe anyone loves Javea!

Ooh Porto that sounds lovely...

I also have this place bookmarked for future reference. I have been to Portovenere before though - it is stunning - and a handy starting point for visiting the Cinque Terre villages. Lovely food and beautiful scenery.

Why Sharplily? We've been about four times, great place that seems to suit all ages.

I lived just outside it and my family still do. Probably people see it differently on holiday but to me the whole area is rather tacky and touristy. Hideously overcrowded beach and town in summer.

I agree Lily..my inlaws live there. Still if we all liked the same place it would be a bit crowded ! Thumbs up for Cinque Terre though...heaven .