Sometimes, windows are not windows, doors are not doors, and even balconies and flower boxes are not balconies or flower boxes at all. They’re simply painted on for effect. Such is the case in Portofino, where the gelato-coloured houses, each with uniform forest-green shutters, have graced more postcards and travel brochures over the years than can ever be counted.

Look closely though, and you’ll realise that many of the shutters, large cornerstones, elaborate carved arches, porticos and gothic colonnades are skilfully painted onto the walls. You’ll find this decorative illusionism in Santa Margarita, Camogli, Nervi and the five villages of Cinque Terre too, as well as further up the coast all the way towards the French Riviera.