summertime goes south

16th June: Loano to Varazze
The marina at Loano is very close to the town and has been extended with much new investment. Part of the money went on two statues, which although inspired by Ancient Rome, exude 21st century kitsch. Their position within a new car park and the proximity of a lamppost seems to indicate they were something of an afterthought and emphasises their incongruity. Photo attached, so judge for yourselves. I couldn't help thinking of Hollywood 'blood and sandals' epics of the 1950's, particularly Jason and the Argonauts.
This part of the Italian Riviera (known as the Riviera di Ponente), is dominated by the foothills of the Alps that stretch down to the coast. This leaves a narrow strip of land, which is rather overdeveloped. The charming old Italian towns with their narrow streets and multitude of fine churches still exist but are rather overshadowed by the medium-rise modern apartments and hotels.
From a sailing point of view, the topography means a lack of safe anchorages and natural harbours so we have hopped from purpose built marina to marina. The weather is also very localised, with thunderstorms and strong gusts driven down from the mountains whilst a little way out to sea there is bright sunshine.
Varazze is a case in point, the soulless marina is a little way out of town which is dominated by modern buildings. This induces us to stay in the marina for the evening and leave tomorrow for Genoa. Genoa marks the start of the Riviera di Levante which may signal a change in the weather and anchoring options.