Where a small country can be great: the Republic of San Marino
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Any Italy lover will agree: the land of the boot is always a good idea. As a holiday country, Italy has everything you need: a wonderful climate, beautiful beaches, the best pizzas, stunning nature and an endless range of cultural sights. So, back to Italy again? A little variety and discovering a new country appeals too. In the oldest sovereign state in the world, San Marino, you experience the best of Italy and broaden your horizons at the same time. Once the day trippers have left, you see the beauty of the narrow streets and the sunset in this tax-free microstate. Did you think no destination could beat your beloved Italy? Think again!
Italia in miniatura
San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world. To be precise, with its 61 km² it is the fifth smallest country on earth. Small in size, but there is plenty to discover. The country lies in the Apennines and has beautifully rugged nature. Its highest point, Monte Titano, rises 749 metres above sea level. Here you also find the best-known sight: the towers Rocca Guaita and Torre Cesta. The fortress with three towers in total (the third, Montale, is not open to the public) is a must for anyone who wants to take in the beautiful view over San Marino.
Other sights are the colourful changing of the guard on Piazza della Libertà, where you can visit the Palazzo Pubblico (the town hall) right away, the Basilica di San Marino and the various museums. My personal highlight in San Marino? Getting lost in the winding little streets of the medieval fortified town with a gelato in my hand. Buying local products tax-free, so that in the evening at the lodge I can make everyone believe I am a star chef. And of course getting the official San Marino stamp in my passport.
Hasta la pasta
The Republic of San Marino is surrounded by the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna and Le Marche. That is good news for anyone who wants to combine culture, shopping and good food with a relaxed day on the Italian coast. Rimini, with almost 15 kilometres of sandy beach, is less than half an hour's drive away and can also be reached by bus from San Marino. For young holidaymakers, Rimini is the nightlife town par excellence, with cosy bars, restaurants and clubs where you can dance until late at night. When the sun comes up, you order the best Italian coffee in Rimini for next to nothing. For a delicious piadina you soon head back to San Marino. That keeps you going all day.
Castle on the cliff
If you head inland instead of to the coast, San Leo is the place for a walk you won't soon forget. You can see the castle from far away. Built on a cliff, the castle of San Leo is said to be the most inaccessible castle in Italy. Still, the walk up is easy enough for most people, and there is a shuttle bus if you are less steady on your feet. San Leo is less touristy than San Marino and has a completely different atmosphere. The village square looks a bit like a film set, and its eventful history can still be felt here.
Spending the night in a microstate: a special experience
Only a handful of people spend the night in or close to San Marino. That makes a stay in this country extra special. After a traditional fagioli con le cotiche (bean soup with bacon) and a torta tre monti, the locals' favourite dessert, you arrive at your lodge and feel alone in the world for a moment. Camping Centro Vacanze San Marino feels like coming home. On the terrace of your lodge you unwind with a good glass of wine, and you sleep soundly, with only the sounds of nature in the background.
What a stay at the campsite looks like, you can read in San Marino: a place that surprises.
Here you can choose between smaller pitches and, for a small extra fee, larger ones. There were still plenty of free pitches in mid-June. The free bus to and from the historic centre is perfect! Very friendly staff and the price is fine. Nice pool at the campsite with lots of shaded spots and sun loungers, just a shame about the blaring music by the pool in the afternoon — why so loud? Very irritating!
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Owner of Lodge Holidays. For years I have personally selected the loveliest kleinschalig glampings in Europe. Questions about a destination? I'd be happy to help.
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