Lerici town in italy. Liguria: the most beautiful places on the coast

I am often asked about where we have the most the best beaches... I wrote about this in several different posts at different times (to find them all, click on the tag "beach").
And so, I decided to fit all the basic information into one post for convenience:

The rainy season has ended, and the heat, more familiar to the Italian summer, has begun. I want to escape from the office or stuffy apartment somewhere in a cool, beautiful place.

Yes, Italian wine cellars are also a way out, I admit it, but today we are talking about the beaches of magnificent Liguria.
More precisely, about the southernmost part of it, oh beautiful beaches Coves of Poets and the Cinque Terre of the province of La Spezia.

Many famous poets and artists, as well as Russian aristocrats used to live and rest in these places. They also say that Milanese with prosperity, who love the sea, yachting and privacy, prefer to have summer residences in the province of La Spezia.
These days, it is definitely also a haven for photographers, bloggers, ecotourists, beach tourists and just romantics.

The mountains give the beaches of the province of La Spezia a unique flavor - Highland, lush vegetation, the scent of flowers in the air, cascades of villas on the coastal cliffs, mountain serpentines of roads.

Here you will not find such a wide coastal strip as on east coast Italy, but you will definitely be enchanted by the unique beauty of each beach and the views from the shore.

So, the number 1 beach town on our list:
Porto Venere - a town on picturesque cape, the western "gate" to the Bay of Poets (Golfo dei poeti).
The beaches in Portovenere are good. Those who are not very fond of sand will appreciate the large boulders from which you can dive, and the small pebbles that will not be hammered into the swimsuit. And the water with a rocky or pebble bottom is very transparent and somehow it splashes in a special way, as if it were ringing, right?

The beach strip stretches almost throughout the town of Porto Venere. Paid beaches are equipped with everything you need, for free you can find a place in the shade of trees.
Another plus of Portovenere is that you can park close to the shore, you don't have to walk hundreds of meters in the heat from the bus stop or the parking lot to the beach.
From La Spezia - the center of the province to Portovenere, go by car 15 kilometers along the scenic road along the sea, port docks, military arsenal with warships, yacht clubs and other sea beauties. Buses also run with enviable regularity, they stop near all the beaches, it is very convenient. There are no problems with paid car parks either.

Beach town number 2: Lerici. Lerici is the eastern "gate" of the bay of poets. In the summer, the city is closed for auto-tourists (there are paid parking lots on the way to the city) and is located far from railroad and motorways. Perhaps it is this seclusion that gives the town a special charm. In addition to ancient fortresses, beautiful villas, yachts, mini-coves with sandy beaches, mild maritime climate and subtropical vegetation.

The beaches in Lerici have their own names:
Venere Azzurra - sand beach marked with a blue flag. Located in one of the picturesque bays west of the center of Lerici. There is a beautiful promenade, stunning views, hotels and guesthouses along the coast. Parking interceptions for vehicles are located somewhere half a kilometer from the beach. The bus from La Spezia makes stops at the beach.

There are not too many tourists here, mainly Italians with children, summer residents, young people.
The center of Lerici is also very picturesque, there is where to walk, admire and eat deliciously.

The second major Lerician beach is located further from the center to the west, in the bay adjacent to Venere Azzurra, in the San Terenzo area. In terms of recreation and beauty, the beach of San Terenzo is very similar to the Venere Azzurra, only slightly smaller in size of the sandy strip.

Further west from Lerici is Baia Blu beach. Nestled in a picturesque rocky bay. It is chosen by local youth and children from summer lagars. Has great difficulty with private parking. The pluses are fine sand and stunning views :)

In store for dessert number 3 - the most beachfront of the five magnificent natural cities national park Cinque Terre. Monterosso al mare.

The number of residents of Monterosso is only about 1.5 thousand people. At the expense of tourists, the population of the town in the warm season increases to 300 thousand. And it's clear why - Monterosso has a magnificent wild nature, exotic diverse vegetation, silence and beauty around.

And also a stunningly clear sea, beautiful beaches, promenades, magnificent coves, mountains, vineyards, wine, walking and sea tourist routes, ancient buildings from the times of the Roman Empire and much more.

The beaches in Monterosso are more beautiful than each other, from huge boulders to small pebbles, the water is clean.
The promenade is amazing, gorgeous observation decks from which you just want to shout "life is a success!"

It is better to get to the beaches of Monterosso by train or bus, it is cheaper and more convenient than by car.
If you do decide to go by car, fill up the tank in advance, as there are no gas stations at all on the territory of the Cinque Terre. And keep your camera ready, the views from the road are just belissimi!

Enjoy your stay! Ciao!

Posted on Jun. 24th, 2016 at 08:30 pm | | | |

Incredibly beautiful location of the Liguria region. Authentic, small-town, like from an old picture, Italy, here falls in love with itself. You can't expect anything more from her!

But in vain ...

After all, the Cinque Terre (accessible to anyone more or less active tourist who will step a little further than the famous Italian resorts) - only humble beginnings the same insane beauty of Tuscany, which I was lucky enough to discover ...

WHERE???

So, if you step a little north of the Cinque Terre and Spice, here ... (click the picture to enlarge)

Then you can see a small peninsula where small towns are located - Lerici, Ameglia, Montamorcello, etc. The main feature of this place, in addition to the naturally magnificent views, is inaccessibility for an ordinary tourist, you can come here only by your own car. What makes this place uninhabited, little-known and therefore especially captivating.

I will not torment with a long introduction and my sighs. I will show you vivid views, let me cry ... and breathe in blissfully ...

AMEGLIA (AMEGLIA)

There is a silver lining, introducing the Italian hostess 2 days before arrival, canceled our reservation and had to urgently look for suitable apartments for 5 people, in the midst of the tour. season for a reasonable price. So I ended up in the truly Italian outback of Ameglia. From the owner only GPS coordinates, a long road through the magnificent hills of Tuscany ...

... English is not known here, there is no trace of chain stores, wild boars are found outside the walls as it gets dark, and in general, civilization here is on compromises with wildlife.

The inner streets and dungeons of the castle look like this ...

The entrance to the apartments is a high rise ... What to do !? The castle, as it should be, is on the mountain:

The aesthetics of this place are amazing ...

... at dusk, Ameglia becomes frighteningly magical

Descent into the forest ...

LERICI (LERICI)

The report is titled "Lerici", but it's actually cool to ride along the entire coastline and see all the small towns that are located here. They are all very similar, adorable in their surroundings and have cool mountain terraces overlooking the sea ...

Lerici I remember my main feature- the castle Castello di Lerici, 12th century, untouched by a strong restoration of antiquity ...

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I don’t remember thoroughly the geography of these places, I’ll leave a photo of the coolest views that I managed to shoot. Montomarcelo, Punto Corve, Punta Bianca - you still can't go wrong wherever you go ...

MORE (about the sea, about the wild, about the wild beach)

If my memory serves me, this is the beach Puntocorvo- black sand, cocky sea, very good climb high up.

It can easily wash off the stones with a wave ...

On this page: Beaches, What to see and where to go, How to get there, Hotels, Where to eat, Videos ...

Features: A resort town in the southern part of Liguria with a strong national flavor. The Italians themselves like to relax here with their families, and there are fewer foreign tourists than in other places. Located in the Bay of Poets. Very beautiful nature, sea views, parks, beaches, villas ...

Pros and cons:

Advantages: Here you can indulge in a real traditional resort vacation: beach, food, sea air, walks, local sightseeing - complete relaxation - and not notice how the vacation time will fly by.

Flaws: In the city itself, no railway station- will have to ride regular buses... In the summer season, entry to the city is prohibited by private cars. The beaches, especially the free ones, can get full.

Where to swim

We can say that there are many beaches. Including sandy (or sandy with pebbles), and with a good entry into the sea.

All of them consist coastline cities - they have their own colors, striking flags and sun umbrellas (for example, Lido is blue). You can swim in Lerici itself, or you can go somewhere in the suburbs, for example, Fiascherino or Tellaro. Many beaches are free to enter, but you will have to sunbathe on a towel or on the rocks aside. Where there is a paid entrance - it will cost 7-10 euros. In Lerici itself, it is more expensive than in the suburbs, although it depends on the beach. A set "2 sun loungers + umbrella" can cost 20-30 euros or even more in the most exclusive places (in the amazing Eco del Mare in Tellaro - more than 100 euros).

Some vacationers do not necessarily choose the beaches near which I live. For example, in Fiasquerino there are two very beautiful little bays - with clear emerald water, framed by rocks and greenery - and someone prefers to swim there. But you have to go there by bus (unless you choose a hotel directly in Fiasquerino).

What to see and where to go

The main attraction of the town is medieval castle Castello di Lerici (you can visit it - it is open there historical Museum with dinosaurs - quite interesting, and not only for children).

It is very interesting to visit and explore the nearby towns of Tellaro and San Terenzo. They are as authentic as the villages of the Cinque Terre, although less well known. Tellaro has a funny octopus monument. There is also a castle in San Terenzo, albeit a small one. There is also a villa where Shelley allegedly lived (according to other sources, he lived in a house on the water, converted from a ship).

Nearby, across the "Bay of Poets", is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Liguria.

Of course, you cannot miss the chance and do not go to the Five Lands, also best of all on plying ferry boats.

By car (or train) you can go to Genoa or. Such trips fit very well in one day.

La Spezia is very close by. You can visit it, especially since from there - by train anywhere.

in San Terenzo

Food

In this colorful Italian town, and most of the food outlets, they cherish the spirit of honoring quality national cuisine... Restaurants, gelaterias, pizzerias and wineries are scattered here and there, concentrating in areas close to the sea. A notable feature of the local cuisine is respect for fresh fish and seafood (there is even a monument to the octopus). Which is quite natural, because small fishing boats with fresh catch regularly come to the shore in the local port.

In this regard, one of the most interesting, if not fantastic places is the IL Senatore fish restaurant, whose terraces overlook the beach in Fiasquerino. I heard the restaurants IL Frantoio, i Doria (at the Hotel Doria Park Hotel), Golfo dei Poeti, Bonta Nascosta pizzeria, Arcobaleno gelateria, Montemarcello Focacci bar ...

Hotels

Doria Park Hotel, according to many vacationers, is the best, or at least very good. It is located not directly by the sea, but on a hill, but the balconies of its rooms offer a wonderful view of the bay.

The beautiful Hotel San Terenzo welcomes guests almost where the poetry couple Shelley once lived.

And then there is the Europa Grand Hotel, Piccolo Hotel del Lido, Florida Lerici, Baia Blu di Lerici apartments and many other great options ...

Fiascherino is the nearest suburb

With kids

For quiet rest with a child this place fits very well. By the sea, especially where there is sand, many children play and tinker - the kids will find a company. In the city itself, in the castle there is a museum with dinosaurs - you can go there more than once. You don't have to say that ice cream and desserts are very tasty. You can go to the famous Maritime Museum ...

How to get there

By train you can get to Sarzana station, and then either by bus (20 minutes on the way, leaves every half hour, costs 2 euros) or by taxi (10 minutes, 13-15 euros).

You can come here by ferry, but it is not a fact that on the same day you will be able to sail back. For details on local maritime connections, see the Portovenere page.

Video

Everything about the municipality of Lerici. Beaches, hotels, entertainment, culture I program. Photos and reviews of tourists who have visited Lerici.

Municipality of Lerici - located on the northwest coast. Despite its beauty and attractiveness, Lerici is unpopular with tourists. This is due to the proximity to the more famous and well-known tourist operators of the Cinque Terre, where vacationers from all over the world strive.

The population of the municipality is 11 thousand people.

The warm Mediterranean climate - hot summers and warm winters, amazing landscapes and mountains - have long turned Lerici into a city of romantics. Unlike most popular resorts Mediterranean, it is always calm and quiet here. Relatively isolated, Lerici is inaccessible to most tourists.

History

The history of the city dates back to the pre-antique period. Archaeologists have determined that a settlement at this place existed in the time of the Etruscans. Unfortunately, few historical details have survived to our time. For the first time in the chronicles, Lerici was mentioned in 1152.

Transport

Transport in Lerici is one of the main troubles. The city is not connected to the "mainland" by rail, so the only way to get here is by car or bus.

The most convenient way to get around the territory of the municipality is by bus. Water transport is also popular here. Are you looking for a boat ride or would you like to take a boat trip to a nearby town? Sea port Lerici is at your service.

Cuisine and restaurants

Since Lerici is a 100% Italian city, unlike the northern regions of the country, the cuisine here is not too influenced by external influences. The restaurant menus are mainly composed of traditional Italian dishes, as well as seafood dishes.

Hotels

In Lerici, despite its small size, there are a lot of hotels. The most luxurious hotel in the municipality is the four-star hotel "Piccolo del Lido". Most of the rooms, starting at 230 euros, overlook the bay.

Even more amazing are the views from the San Terenzo rooms. On the official website, where you can easily and quickly book a room without additional commissions, there is a Russian version http://www.hotelsanterenzo.it/

The cost of rooms with sea views starts from 170 euros. Breakfast and parking space included in the price.

Attractions Lerici

Lerici still retains its medieval appearance, with characteristic houses lined up along the narrow Karuji streets. Inside the borgo is the Jewish Quarter, a castle built in the thirteenth century by the Pisans and enlarged by the Genoese, with a thirteenth century chapel dedicated to St. Anastasia, as well as the Geopaleontological Museum and Piazza Poggio and San Giorgio.

At the foot of the castle there is a walking path along the Vassallo promenade. Borgo also houses the Roman-era San Rocco tower, converted into a bell tower in the sixteenth century, the parish church of San Francesco d'Assisi, the San Bernardino oratorio and not far from Palazzo Doria, an ancient medieval hospital dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul.

Near Lerici it is also interesting to see many other historically famous places, for example, San Terenzo, with the castle, Villa Magni, where Percy Bysshe Shelley and Mary Shelley lived, and Villa Marigola, from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Venere Azzurra beach.

And between Pulola and Solaro, you can admire Villa Cochrane, better known as Villa Rezzola, nestled in a park of eucalyptus, oak and cypress ...

Having learned to reclaim land from the mountains, the inhabitants of Liguria managed to make them fertile, growing olives and vineyards on the slopes of the mountains descending to the sea. And the unique geographical position at the foot of the mountain arc, mild climate, crystal-clear sea, ancient historical evidence have turned Liguria into one of the most attractive places among tourists.

Here you will not find wide spacious beaches in the south of Italy, but the incredibly beautiful landscapes and transparent sea among the cliffs and secluded bays have no equal. Bright sun, luxurious colors of nature, evidence of painstaking human labor, works of art from different eras, the richness of the tastes of local cuisine - complement the colorful mosaic called Liguria.

We will see several famous places, and at the same time little-known ones charming corners Ligurian coast.

Sanremo

San Remo is the fourth largest city in Liguria with a population of about 57,000 and the largest in the province of Imperia. The development of San Remo as an international resort began in the second half of the 19th century, and in modern tourists this city is known as a city of casinos and a music festival, and in recent times- and thanks to the new, the longest in Europe 24-kilometer bicycle road, which was built on the site of the old railway and which runs along the entire coast to the town of San Lorenzo al Mare between the seaside pine trees and beaches. Lovers active species recreation can be used for walking not only bicycles, but also skateboards, rollers, and just walking.

The longest cycle path in Europe. Photo hotelrivieradeifiori.it

From romance to baroque, from neoclassicism to liberty, Sanremo combines a wide variety of architectural styles that tell the story of the city. Villas and palaces, towers and monuments, churches and places of worship not only adorn the city, but also reflect its multinational character.

Local traditions and festivals

The unofficial name of San Remo - "City of Flowers" is explained by the widespread cultivation of carnations of various shades, as well as other flowers. A special holiday called "Flower carts" is also dedicated to them, when real works of art, consisting of fresh natural flowers, are transported every year at the end of winter on carts along the streets of the city, arranging a colorful procession and welcoming spring. The “Feast of the Goddess Flora” was born in San Remo in 1904 and over time has turned into a unique spectacle, which each time about 60 thousand spectators try to see, especially for this purpose, who come to San Remo.

One of the flower carts participating in the festival. Photo doveviaggi.corriere.it

Another exciting event that draws attention to Sanremo is the rally (officially called Rallye Sanremo), one of the most important sporting events in the city and its surroundings, held here since 1928.

Every spring, at the end of March, the Milan-San Remo bike race is held. In one day, cyclists have to overcome 290 km, this is one of the longest cycling races in one day, in which both Italian and foreign athletes take part.

Sanremo beaches

The Three Bridges Beach (Spiaggia dei Tre Ponti) is located near the town and is a beach of soft golden sand surrounded by a picturesque landscape of green hills. The beach is equipped with all the necessary amenities for tourists: changing rooms, rental of sun loungers, umbrellas and pedal boats, there are two bars and a restaurant overlooking the lights of San Remo. The transparent blue sea with a sandy bottom is great for water procedures, and in addition, the special shape of the seabed in this area contributes to the formation of waves suitable for surfing, which makes the Three Bridges Beach popular with lovers of this water sport, both in summer and in winter.

Sanremo beach. Photo infromim.it

Things to do in Sanremo

It is impossible to get bored in Sanremo; entertainment can be found here for all tastes: from horseback riding in the arena, decorated in the style of the 30s of the last century, to playing golf on the famous 18-hole course, which turns 80 this year.

Yachtsmen who find themselves in San Remo have an excellent opportunity to sail in the yacht club. Here you can rent a motor or sailing boat, and sailing courses are periodically held for everyone. In particular, for teenagers, these courses are organized in the summer and last 15 days, and adults can order an individual course of study.

Yacht- club San- Remo. Phototraveljournals. net

For shopping or just walking around the city center among the inviting windows of the most fashionable shops, the Matteotti Avenue is best suited. Piazza Brescia can be called the heart of San Remo, it is here that freshly caught fish is brought from the port every morning, from where it goes straight to numerous fish shops and restaurants specializing in fish dishes. Sanremo has several discos and many cocktail bars, and the nightlife is very active here.

Casino San Remo. Photo ilcovodijack.blogspot.com

Where to stay and where and what to eat

The hospitable San Remo has over 80 hotels for every taste and level of comfort. The choice of tourists - hotels with a swimming pool, a restaurant, with animation and wi-fi internet, hotels for families with children, hotels that allow pets and dogs to come in, hotels in the city center or not far from the beach, agriturismo hotels, in addition, you can rent a house or villa.

Finding where to dine in San Remo is also not a problem, there are a huge number of places where you can satisfy your hunger, for every appetite and budget: from small trattorias and pizzerias to restaurants specializing in Ligurian cuisine or exclusively fish menus. In total, San Remo has 90 restaurants, 70 pizza restaurants, 5 trattorias, 10 ethnic restaurants (with Chinese, Japanese, South American, Indian cuisine).

From traditional dishes, you should definitely try the "green pie" (stuffed with rice, boiled eggs, cheese and herbs), rabbit in Vermentino wine, as well as delicious flat cakes, among which the most famous is "Sardenaira" - with sardines, tomatoes, olives and olive oil.

Neighborhood San Remo

Ospedaletti is located west of San Remo, a small resort town for a relaxing family vacation... The village of Arma di Taggia, on the contrary, attracts tourists with numerous night discos and restaurants, from here it is easy to get to the town of Taggia and the mysterious valley of Argentina (Valle Argentina) - the highest above sea level on the Ligurian coast.

Here every town deserves attention: there are many churches, monasteries, medieval castles and Renaissance palaces in Taj; Badalucco is famous for its ceramics and murals on the wall; Karpazio is interesting for the Museum of the Resistance; Triora - a mesmerizing medieval fortress town, notorious for the executions of "witches"; Realdo and Verdegia are two alpine towns located in the middle of pristine nature. And besides, Bayardo is an ancient Celtic settlement, Ceriana and Montalto.

Bussana - this town was destroyed by the strongest earthquake in 1887 and then rebuilt again. Now its second name is the International Artistic Village. Since the beginning of the 50s of the last century, artists, sculptors, musicians and poets, from Italy and other countries, have liked to come here. Today, walking through the charming narrow streets leading to the sea, here you can plunge into history and art.

The old streets of Bussana. Photo experyentya.it

Another interesting town, located on the westernmost point of Liguria, almost on the border with France, is Bordighera, founded in the 4th century BC. This pearl of the Ligurian coast at all times has attracted both noble persons and people of creativity. For example, Claude Monet dedicated several of his paintings to Bordighera.

"Bordighera" by Claude Monet, 1884 Photoit.wikipedia.org

Alassio

Alassio is a charming town in the province of Savona with a population of about 10,000, one hundred kilometers from Genoa. The ancient walled city has now turned into a resort place with one of the most beautiful beaches of fine sand on the coast, which stretches for four kilometers. There is a long street parallel to the beach (Via XX September), which crosses the entire historical Center cities. There are many shops and cafes on this street; it is a favorite walking place for tourists.

City of Alassio. Photo panoramio.com

The city received its name in honor of Princess Adelasia, the daughter of Emperor Otto I the Great, who fled with her beloved, squire Aleramo. The couple settled in the very place where the city now stands, on the coat of arms of which the castle tower with Princess Adelasia is depicted.

And Alassio himself gained fame as a romantic city of lovers, this is also reminiscent of the "wall of lovers" with the famous drawing "Lovers" by the French artist Raymond Payne and the bronze statue of Eros Pellini, as well as the "Mailbox for letters of love", which on Valentine's Day 14 February is filled with letters with romantic confessions in verse from all over Europe, and then the most beautiful letter of love is chosen from them. Besides, Alassio hosts the Miss Muretto beauty pageant.

"The Wall of Lovers" by Alassio. Photo liguroapoket.com

British and Alassio

In the middle of the 19th century, this corner of the Ligurian coast was discovered by the British, who founded a colony of immigrants from Great Britain led by the Hanbury family in Alassio, which made a huge contribution to the tourist development of the city: gardens and parks were laid out and typical English houses were built. In a short period of time, an inconspicuous fishing village has become a well-known tourist center. In 1872, the British built a railway to Genoa, and the nobility and officials of Queen Victoria began to visit the resort of Alassio. They boated, hiked the hills, played tennis and bridge, attended theater and charity events, and held meetings at the first British Club cafes.

The British in Alassio, 1920. Photo visualphotos.com

Over time, some Englishmen began to practice "tonic bathing in the sea", and this was the beginning of the modern form of tourism. They began to build magnificent hotels, like on the Emerald Coast of Sardinia. In 1948, with the death of his son Sir Hanbury, the story of the small English earthly paradise of Alassio ended. However, much in the town reminds of the English presence even today.

Alassio beaches

The huge beach of Alassio is divided into five zones, all of them have more or less the same characteristics of sand and seabed, and all are equipped with spa centers (there are about 100 of them), offering tourists maximum services. Fine gray-white sand stretches at a distance of 4 km. The sea near the coast is shallow and gains depth very smoothly, which is especially appreciated by families with children. You can enjoy the sea and the sun here from April to November, while admiring the magnificent views of the capes of Capo Mele and Capo Santa Croce.

Alassio beach. Photopanoramio. com

Not far from Alassio there are other resort places: Alberga, Laigueglia, Andora, each with beautiful beaches.

In Alassio, everything is thought out for serene rest tourists: from 5-star hotels to agritourism hotels, the number of which has increased by last years... You can rent a house or apartment, stay in one of 100 hotels or stay with your mobile home in a camping.

Attractions Alassio

One of the most interesting places of ancient Alassio is the Julia Augusta road, which connected Liguria with Provence and Gaul in the Roman era, along which you can still see the remains of ancient columns and other structures.

Noteworthy is the small church of Santa Croce, standing on the top of a cliff above the sea. You can get to it by walking two kilometers along Hanbury Street.

Church of Santa Croce. Photo flickr.com

Local kitchen

And in the cuisine of Alassio, as well as on the entire Ligurian coast, the taste of seafood is predominant. Basil with garlic, cheese and pine nuts are the ingredients of the famous pesto, which is seasoned with the local pasta - Trenette and Trofie. And for sweet - "Baci di Alassio" (Alassio's Kisses) - a traditional chocolate, consisting of two halves.

Sweet "Kisses of Alassio". Photo ilmondodeidolci.blogspot.com

For wines, it is worth trying the local brands DOP Pigato, Rossese and Vermentino.

Gulf of Tigullio (Il Golfo del Tigullio)

The Gulf of Tigullio, consisting of many coves and bends, is bounded by the Portofino Regional Natural Park in the northwest and the Cape of Punta Manara in the southeast. Its name comes from the Tigulli tribe that lived in these places in the pre-Roman era. Like the rest of Liguria, the Gulf of Tigullio at one time suffered both pirate raids and Saracen conquests.

On the coast of the Gulf of Tigullio there are such famous tourist sites as Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, Zoagli, Chiavari, Lavagna, Sestri Levante (Sestri Levante) and Moneglia, as well as other small resort towns... In total, they are home to 130,000 people who live mainly off the tourism business.

Gulf of Tigullio on the map. Photo teleradiopace.tv

Rapallo

Rapallo is the largest city in Tigullio, located in the center of the bay, with about 30,000 inhabitants. Thanks to its enviable geographic location, Rapallo became tourist center already in the second half of the 19th century, this type of activity is actively developing to this day. On one side of Rapallo you can see the magnificent green landscapes of Cape Portofino, and on the other side, the breathtaking rocky reefs that separate Rapallo from Zoaglia. A chain of paths leads to both sides, suitable for walking.

Of the local attractions, the church of Nostra Signora di Montallegro stands out (Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montallegro), which can be reached using cable car, the only one in the whole of Liguria. From above, a stunning view of the entire bay opens.

View of Rapallo from the cable car. Photo rapallo_ge.paginevacanza.it

Church of Nostra Signora di Montallegro. Photo ww1.zenazone.it

It is also worth visiting the ancient fortress on the sea (Antico Castello sul mare), the city tower (Torre civica), the Basilica of the Holy Martyrs Gervasio and Protasio (Basilica dei SS Gervasio e Protasio), the monastery complex of the Clarisse sisters and not far from Rapallo - the ruins of the Abbey of Valle Cristi (Abbazia di Valle Christi).

The picturesque promenade of Vittorio Veneto, with a long palm tree lane and numerous cafes, is a favorite place for all visitors to the city.

Palms and Rapallo Cafe. Photo flickriver.com

The historic center of Rapallo has a medieval origin, but this does not prevent the most fashionable shops from being on its streets.

Rapallo has a convenient tourist port, in the city there are 40 hotels, two campgrounds, many agriturismo hotels, more than 60 restaurants, 12 spa centers, as well as numerous bars and cafes.

Santa Margherita di Ligure

This city, located on the shores of the Gulf of Tigullio, 35 km from Genoa, most likely has a very ancient origin, as evidenced by the found urn with ashes, dated to the 3rd century, with an inscription in Latin (now this urn is kept in the Basilica of Santa Margarita ). From the Middle Ages locality consisted of two main fortresses - Peschino and Corte, which were often at enmity with each other. In 1813, when Napoleon came to power, both fortresses were united under the common name Porto Napoleone. The name Santa Margarita was established in 1863. In 1870, the city already had two stations of the nascent railway Genoa - Sestri Levante, and with the advent of the road to Portofino, the golden age of the "dolphin coast" began, villas and hotels began to be actively built. After the Second World War, Santa Margherita, which was nicknamed the "Pearl of Tigullio", together with Portofino began to gain the fame of exclusive resort locations.

Santa Margarita di Ligure. Photo flickr.com

In Santa Margherita, you can enjoy the enchanting landscape of the sea and the surrounding hills covered with Mediterranean vegetation, with villas and gardens overlooking the sea. Luxury yachts dock in the port, as well as centers for sea sports (sailing, rowing and underwater), from where international regattas start. There are also many fishing boats that go out to sea every night to deliver the freshest fish to the shore in the morning. The surrounding landscape tells about the history of the city and about the colossal work that is put into locals in the cultivation of olives on mountain terraces, in the construction of cobblestone roads on mountain slopes.

For those who love hiking, the surroundings of Santa Margherita offer many trails and paths, walking along which you can discover picturesque rural landscapes, old castles, and at the same time admire the mesmerizing views of the sea from anywhere.

Sea lovers will find a variety of coastal areas here: sand and pebble beaches or rocky coastlines, small cozy coves or lively spas. Many hotels offer their guests a private beach as well as a swimming pool.

Moving along the coast of Santa Margherita from the so-called "Ghiaia" zone, you can find both paid beaches and a beach with open access for everyone - almost completely pebbled, equipped with a changing room and a free shower. Another small free beach located in the same area is called Piazza del sole, with a free shower. Nearby is the Regina Elena hotel, followed by small public beaches, including the Bau Bau Beach for dogs, where owners with dogs can enjoy the sea and the sun without any restrictions. Continuing to move towards Portofino, you can come across other public beaches, with sun loungers, umbrellas, bars and other services for rent.

A little further south of them is the magnificent Paraggi Bay, with its golden sandy beach, sea of ​​intense emerald hues and pine-covered mountains. Paraji was once a village of fishermen and millers, but now this place has become one of the most beloved by tourists with a spa center and a superbly equipped beach.

Paraji beach. Photo flickr.com

Portofino

Portofino is one of the most beautiful and most prestigious resort destinations not only on the Ligurian coast, but throughout Italy. It is a small town with a population of about 500, nestled on a hillside on the shore of the bay.

Portofino gained fame in the 60s of the last century, when actors, pop stars, famous and wealthy people began to visit this place, attracted by the beautiful landscapes of the Ligurian coast. Gradually, social weekends began to move from Via Vittorio Veneto and Piazza di Spagna in Rome to new fashionable places on the coast: Capri, Montecarlo, Cortina, Porto Cervo and Portofino. Over time, Portofino turned into a prestigious resort, to which they began to moor expensive yachts and host famous sailing competitions.

Modern Portofino. Photo flickriver.com

Today people come to Portofino to relax and unwind surrounded by nature. The holiday season lasts here from May to October. The rest of the year, life in the town practically stops. At the height of the summer season, a small central square, the so-called “Piazzetta” is always full of tourists, people come here to “show themselves and see others”. Portofino restaurants specialize mainly in fish dishes. The wealthiest tourists devote their free time to shopping in boutiques of famous brands.

Hotels are also designed for every taste and budget: from 300 euros per night for two at the Hotel Nazionale, to 700-7000 euros at the Splendido hotel. Those wishing to stay closer to the sea can choose the 4-star Piccolo Hotel, which has a convenient beach for its guests. Walking through Portofino, it is worth visiting its lighthouse, Fortress Brown, old abbey San Fruttuoso or just take a boat trip.

Fortress Brown. Photo slowtrav.com

Features of local cuisine

Portofino - appropriate place both for those who are used to snacking quickly (Liguria is famous for its delicious cheese cakes), and for gourmets who prefer slow food: they have many restaurants at their disposal that are ready to offer spaghetti with Genoese pesto, fish, crayfish, crabs and lobsters, as well as minestra (soup) with legumes, Genoese minestrone, pansoti (a variety of dumplings) with peanut sauce, ravioli with dried cod, dried cod in garlic sauce, and a herb and seafood dish called kappon magro.

Appetizing tortilla from Portofino. Photoweircombinations.com

Cinque Terre

A tourist who first came to this place remains mesmerized by the landscapes of the Cinque Terre (Five Lands): Monterosso, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Corniglia and Manarola. These five towns were founded in the Middle Ages and remained isolated during the period of the Genoese Maritime Republic, retaining their ancient medieval fortresses built in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature.

In 1997, the National nature Park Cinque Terre entered the list World heritage UNESCO. Vineyards on the slopes of the mountains, crystal-clear sea, architectural and historical sights and a whole network of trails and paths for walking make this area more and more attractive for tourists, even though there is no usual tourist comfort, where all-inclusive, narrow the roads go up and down and it is not always easy to find parking for your car. This place is not suitable for everyone, at least not for those who are accustomed to a comfortable and comfortable stay.

Riomaggiore

Squeezed between two steep hills, terraces descending to the sea, the old town amazes tourists with its colorful houses, evenly standing on the slopes of the hills, and walks along its lanes, passages, staircase streets allow you to admire the ever-changing play of light and shadow. Each house here has two exits: one is facing the sea, and the other is located on the opposite side, overlooking the next street on the level. Such a structure made it possible in the 16th century to quickly hide in the event of an attack by the Saracens. At the top of the town is the Church of St. John the Baptist, built in 1340.

Riomaggiore. Photonickbooth. id. au

Manarola

Manarola is an old town, the colorful houses of which seem to have grown out of a rock. The first evidence of it dates back to the second half of the 13th century and is associated with the possessions of the Fieschi family from Lavagna.

Under the rule of Genoa, Manarola began to develop actively, at that time it was one of the main producers of wine and olive oil. In the lower part of the city, you can still see the restored old mill and olive oil press.

In the square of Pope Innocent IV, you can see the Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338 in the Gothic-Ligurian style, and the White Bell Tower, an old tower erected in the 14th century as a point of observation and protection.

Manarola entered the first hundred of the most beautiful castles in Italy.

Manarola. Photo sfrezychannel.blogspot.it

Corniglia

Standing on a cliff at a height of one hundred meters, Corniglia is practically inaccessible from the sea. To get to it, you need to either climb a long staircase, consisting of 377 steps, or come along the road that rises from the side of the railway. On three sides, the town is surrounded by vineyards, terraces located on the slopes.

In this amazing walled city, of interest is the 18th century square with the chapel of St.Catherine, the Church of St.Peter is one of the most interesting monuments architecture of the entire coast, a fine example of Ligurian Gothic, built in 1334.

Corniglia. Phototrekearth.com

Vernazza

Pernazza, perched on an imposing rocky reef, is already mentioned in the chronicles of 1080 as a fortress, where ships were stationed to defend against the Saracens. Medieval town, with enchanting streets between pink, red, yellow houses, today tourists from all over the world strive to visit, it is not for nothing that it is included in the first hundred of the most beautiful walled cities in Italy.

It is better to get to this picturesque town from the sea side. From the port you can go to explore the city, of which the Church of Santa Margarita stands out from the beginning of the XIV century. In Vernazza, the remains of a powerful defensive system have been preserved: fragments of the fortress wall, the Doria castle, an observation tower of the 11th century.

Vernazza. Photo cinqueterre.a.tourist.com

Monterosso

The first reports of Monterosso date back to 1201, at the beginning of the 13th century it was the most fortified fortress on this stretch of the coast, successfully repelling the attacks of the Saracens. Monterosso is the favorite vacation spot of the Italian writer, 1975 Nobel Prize for Literature Eugenio Montale, who loved to spend the summer in a "rocky and harsh village, a haven for fishermen and peasants."

In the middle of narrow, tangled streets stands the 13th-century Gothic-Genoese church of John the Baptist, with a beautiful two-tone façade. The 17th-century Capuchin monastery and the San Antonio del Mesco church, built in 1335, are also worth a visit.

In the newer resort area of ​​Fagina, you can see the Liberty style villa of the Montale family, and on the promontory separating Fagina from the old part of the city rises the old defensive system of the city, with fortified walls, the remains ancient fortress with two towers and a rocky reef at the foot of the majestic Tower of Aurora.

Monterosso. Photolecinqueterre. org

The sea at the Cinque Terre

The coast of the Cinque Terre is primarily sea and rocky, with the exception of two sections of sandy beach at Monterosso and a few other pebble beaches. The coast practically hangs over the sea, often sinking into the water with vertical rocky cliffs. From Cape "Punta Mesco", bordering the Cinque Terre marine reserve in the northwest, to Monterosso, the bottom is rocky and not very deep, at Monterosso the sea becomes shallow, with a wide sandy strip on the coast. Further, in the direction of Vernazza, the coast becomes high and steep, with a rocky seabed close to the coast. From here, in the direction of Manarola, a wide sandy bay with a sea depth of 9-10 meters spreads. The marine fauna off the coast is considered one of the richest and most diverse on the entire Ligurian coast.

Lerici

Located on the shores of one of the most beautiful bays of the Eastern Ligurian Riviera, the city of Lerici is rich in historical and artistic evidence, and in addition, it has the reputation of a modern and superbly equipped resort center.

View of Lerici. Photo flickriver.com

This place is also called "the bay of poets" - for the fact that Petrarch and Montale, Byron and Shelley loved to visit here. The mild climate and greenery of the hills, as well as ancient castles on the hills, to which scenic trails lead, and secluded sea bays hidden among rocky reefs, make it attractive at any time of the year.

Lerici is an ideal destination for those looking for a quiet relaxing holiday, in close contact with nature and the sea, and at the same time, it is an excellent choice for lovers aquatic species sports, entertainment, delicious food, art and culture.

Lerici embankment. Photo flickriver.com

The beaches of Lerici have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flags and the Four Sails badge by the environmental organization Legambiente on several occasions. In addition, the territory of Lerici is included in the Regional Natural Park of Montemarcello Magra.

Already in the Middle Ages, Lerici was an important port, where travelers, pilgrims, merchants, trying to get to the north of Italy and to the center of Europe, landed. The city was also used by the inhabitants of Lucca during the trade in fabrics and leather. In the 17th-18th centuries, the city was actively developing thanks to the presence of many noble persons who built palaces and villas in Lerici, which have survived to this day.

Lerici beaches

Blue Venus Beach(Spiaggia Venere Azzurra) is located next to the village of the same name, between Lerici and San Terenzo. It offers a magnificent view of the islands of Tino and Palmaria. The free beach is equipped with the rental of umbrellas, sun loungers, sun loungers and pedal boats. Since 2000, the beach has been consistently awarded Blue Flags and Four Sails for the purity of sea water and quality of service. There are three food outlets on the beach, every day, during the day and in the evening, animators entertain vacationers, music and themed festivals are organized.

Blue Venus Beach. Photo venereazzurra.com

Blue Bay Beach(Spiaggia Baia Blu) - A magnificent bend in the bay is enclosed between the capes of Punta Santa Teresa and Punta Galera. Transparent sea waters sparkling in the sun wash the beach, framed by a green oasis with century-old oaks and olive groves. The beach is equipped with a variety of services, a restaurant, three bars, a swimming pool, a large parking lot.

Blue Bay. Photo oasidelbelvivere.it

Fiascherino beaches(Spiagge di Fiascherino) - located on the east side of Lerici and are very interesting place behind a picturesque ridge of rocky reefs, with cliffs and coral islands... Famous poets and writers such as Byron, Shelley and Lawrence have visited this amazingly beautiful place.

Fiascherino beaches. Photoiluoghidelcuore. it

Sea Echo beach(Spiaggia dell'Eco del Mare) is a famous and prestigious beach located on the shores of one of the most beautiful bays of the coast between Lerici and Tellaro. The family running the beach always treats their clients with great care, who come here in search of exclusivity and relaxation in close contact with nature. The beach offers vacationers a wide range of services: from an elevator and a warm shower, a bar and cafe to wi-fi and private parking.

Sea Echo beach. Photo hotelflorida.it

Beach Lerici Coast(Spiaggia del Lido di Lerici) - gently descends to the clean sea with a shallow bottom near the shore, which makes swimming safe even for children. The beach is surrounded by rocks and pine trees, in the shade of which you can relax from the hot sun. The beach is equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers, sun loungers, a shower, a telephone, and there is a bar just a stone's throw from it.

Columbus beach(Spiaggia del Colombo) is a private holiday resort located along the coast that connects Lerici with San Terenzo. The beach is equipped with everything you need to comfortably enjoy the sea, sun and beautiful views of the islands of the bay.

Marinella di San Terenzo beach(Spiaggia La Marinella di San Terenzo) - located near the castle on the coast of a beautiful bay, from where you can admire the entire Gulf of Lerici.

Local kitchen

One of the traditional dishes is seafood soup, the main "hero" of which is the sea date - a bivalve mollusk that lives off the coast of Liguria. The marine date, which lives in its natural environment, is protected, but for gourmets it is artificially grown on special cement blocks.

Sea date soup. Photo accademiadelgusto.info

Once upon a time local kitchen based on dishes made from wheat flour, corn and chestnuts. These ancient culinary traditions have survived to this day. It is also worth trying the rabbit stewed in sauce or fried.