Sarzana Antique Fair

Every year in August I wait for it...in Sarzana there's the most wonderful event, the Sarzana Antiques Fair. Sarzana is about a 40 minute drive from our house in the Lunigiana. Sarazana is a quaint medieval town 20 minutes inland from the sea, right before you get to Cararra where the marble is from. Complete with a citadel and duomo, it's our region's fun little secret hipster haven. It's also virtually unknown by tourists. In fact I cringe a little bit letting you all in on my secret happy place. It's chocked-full of artisan clothing boutiques and antique stores, yummy hip restaurants, and the most charming little bakery/tearoom, Melissa's (Ill be writing about it in the next blog post, so you will want to come back, and read about it this Thursday). There's even a hipster barber shop.This year I went twice. Once to scout it out. I found a charming hand painted terracotta urn that I have proudly displayed in our front entry. I headed back to find some pieces for the guest quarters and kitchen, and a trunk for the master bedroom.The stalls under the brightly lit passageways always make me smile. Striped umbrellas and trillions of trinkets catch your eye. It always makes me a little dizzy with anticipation. Oh, and it's held at night which is a stroke of genius since the August heat can bring upwards of 100 degrees in the shade. It's the perfect time to have an aperitivo and people watching at the fair is an added plus.All summer long there are wonderful antiques markets all around the region, but this once-a-year fair is the one I wait for. Now that I have let you in on my little secret, you should think about visiting our region inland from the Riviera. Thirty minutes from the very popular and incredibly over-crowed over-marketed Cinqueterra, there is a treasure trove of quaint towns and beautiful views, amazing hikes and unexpected local cuisine. Adventure awaits you off the beaten path. Start with Sarzana; you won't be disappointed. You're welcome. xx