Fuorisalone POSTCARDS: Clara Bona’s beloved summer destination

Summer has just begun, bringing with it a desire to slow down, travel, and reconnect with places that - even when far away - make us feel at home. There are locations that somehow belong to us: views that evoke childhood, freedom, and light promises. Places of the heart and memory, where returning feels like a comforting ritual.
We asked a group of creatives - designers, curators, architects, and collectors - to share their favorite destinations: personal places rich with memories, routines, and inspiration. This resulted in a collection of sincere postcards accompanied by tips and secret recommendations, meant to be read with curiosity and saved for later. Perhaps they will inspire you to discover and enjoy new destinations.

Let’s hear from Clara Bona.
 

Can you tell us a little about you?
I'm an architect and journalist. My work ranges from renovating homes to designing interiors, creating home products, writing articles about architecture and lifestyle... and much more. My days are always full and never the same.

What’s your favorite summer place?
Every summer for many years, I’ve been exploring 3 or 4 Greek islands, always choosing new ones to discover. But if I had to name my favorite place, it would be my home among the olive trees in Santa Margherita Ligure - that’s where I escape to whenever I can.
 

Places worth discovering?
Sport and Nature: hiking on Mount Portofino is a must — the area is crisscrossed with scenic trails offering stunning views of the sea from above. More experienced hikers can reach the hidden bay of San Fruttuoso, but even a short walk on the mountain is enough to reconnect with the area’s natural beauty.
Place close to my heart: the small church of San Sebastiano.
Lunch break: stop at Mulino del Gassetta, above Portofino, or at Eremo Sant’Antonio in Niasca, just above Paraggi. Both serve simple, honest food with lots of produce straight from the garden.
Where to eat: the big news is that Ö Magazín, a historic restaurant in Portofino where you dine almost with your feet in the water, has now opened two new spots: one in Rapallo, inside the beautifully designed Porto Carlo Riva, and one in Paraggi, right on the beach at Bagni Bosetti. All three are stunning, character-filled locations, perfect for lunch, dinner, or just a snack.
Where to stay: Blu di te is a small boutique hotel in the heart of town, beautifully designed, with a rooftop pool and a cozy ground-floor lounge with outdoor seating. The breakfast is incredible - and you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy it.
Food tips: try the pansotti with walnut sauce at Pastificio Dasso, a legendary pasta maker originally based in Rapallo, now also in Santa Margherita on Via Maragliano. For dessert, get a classic paciugo from Ugo, at Bar Morena on the little square in Portofino. It’s also the perfect spot for a Bellini - the best around. For sweets and pantry gems, head to Seghezzo, an old-style deli filled with unique, high-quality products, from candies to chocolate to gourmet groceries.
Don’t miss: the Friday morning market. It’s a typical local street market, but a few stalls are truly special. My favorites? The vintage stall with antique objects, the one selling handwoven African baskets, and the one with handmade linens, rugs, and bedspreads.

Do you have a favorite hidden spot?
A small beach nestled in the rocks.. too special to give away