Life in San Lucido
A collection of my favorites from a small seaside town that slowed everything down.
Gaifu Bar San Lucido Italy
San Lucido, the tiny Italian town that reminds me of Italy before it was ITALY. An old-school picturesque town without the hustle of tourism - where everyone knows everyone, people yell ciao across the street, sipping espresso, smoking cigarettes and slowing down. And of course, nothing is open during siesta.
It’s not a place you go to see but a place you go to feel - to slow down and experience la vita dolce. We didn’t end up doing much here, and that was kind of the point. Our two week stay was mostly filled with good food, drinks and of course the beach.
After trying so many cappuccinos and croissants around Italy, I have to say Gaifù Bar on the pier really knows what they're doing, and we found ourselves going back every morning for the nutella croissant and cappuccino. Waking up slowly, walking to the pier and enjoying a coffee while overlooking the town and sea became my favorite morning routine.
Even after 4 months in the Caribbean, the Italian sun feels HOT - the kind of sun that leaves you sweaty but with a perfect golden tan. Laying out on the beach is essential in the afternoon and since we visited in spring it was low-key enough to let Harley roam and run on the beach - a dogs paradise! The water in April is a bit cold for swimming, but perfect for cooling off before laying back out in the sun.
La Mandorla
The one place in town that’s open all day is La Mandorla - where you’ll find the locals hanging out during siesta. Going here for a post-beach treat is a must. Fior di latte is my favorite gelato flavor, and this is hands down the best I’ve ever had, along with their mandorla (almond) flavored granita. I would honestly go back to San Lucido just for this. If you’re a real foodie, you’ll appreciate this spot.
Even though this place is sleepy it truly comes alive in the evening. People coming in from surrounding towns to fill the pier for drinks, aperitivos, and live music.
It ended up being one of those places where we didn’t try to do much, but somehow didn’t feel like we missed anything.