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Lovers of villages and beaches

Enjoy your experience

Bathing suit and sneakers

The Riviera di Levante is a paradise for hiking and unspoiled beaches. Here, the beaches are smaller, sand is less common, and pebbles and gravel are more prevalent. However, the mix of cliffs, coves, natural parks, and villages perched on rugged bluffs creates unparalleled views. It's no coincidence that the Cinque Terre, Portofino, and the Gulf of Poets are sought-after destinations for international tourism.

The Abbey of San Fruttuoso: A Hidden Gem on the Italian Riviera

The Abbey of San Fruttuoso is nestled in a small cove at Capodimonte, between Camogli and Portofino. It can only be reached on foot, via scenic trails, or by sea. The abbey dates back to the 8th century AD, when Prosper, a Tarragonese bishop fleeing from Arab-invaded Spain, chose the bay as a refuge to safeguard the relics of St. Fruttuoso. Over the years, the structure underwent several changes, but in the 13th century, the Doria family, who became its owners, gave it its current form. Today, the abbey is owned by the FAI (Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano - National Trust for Italy), which promotes various tourist activities each year.

In the bay, you'll find the famous statue of the Christ of the Depths, placed on the seabed in 1954 and restored in the 1990s.

Paraggi Beach: A Hidden Gem on the Italian Riviera

Paraggi Beach is nestled between Rapallo and Portofino, in the picturesque bay just behind Santa Margherita Ligure.

This cove is highly popular with diving enthusiasts due to the rich marine life found on its seabed. You can even find a submerged nativity scene inside a small cave several meters deep.

The beach itself is sandy, and the sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters with an intense emerald green hue. It's a must-visit spot for a swim in a dreamlike setting.

For those who enjoy hiking, the Valle dei Mulini trail starts just behind the beach. This excursion takes its name from the presence of several ruins of old mills along the route.

Sestri Levante and the Bay of Silence: A Seaside Gem on the Italian Riviera

Sestri Levante, also known as the "City of Two Seas," is a must-visit destination for anyone staying in Liguria.

Divided between the "Bay of Fairytales" with its marina and the "Bay of Silence" where crystal-clear, calm waters mix with fine sand, Sestri Levante is a peaceful place steeped in history. It has been a source of inspiration for many artists, including writer Hans Christian Andersen, scientist Guglielmo Marconi, and composer Wagner.

Easily accessible by both car and train, Sestri Levante is also a stop for coastal boat trips.

The Bay of Silence, guarded by the statue of the "Fisherman" created by artist Lusting, offers moments of great beauty. From the peace of the blue sea contrasting with the small fishing boats moored in the harbor, to the meals or aperitifs that can be enjoyed in the restaurants along the beach.

Behind the bay, you'll find the old part of Sestri Levante, with its narrow street that hosts the town's social life, thanks to the typical shops and restaurants that enliven the small city even in the evening.

The Cinque Terre: A Fairytale Setting on the Italian Riviera

World-famous, also thanks to the Disney/Pixar movie "Luca" which was inspired by the enchanting atmosphere of these magical places, you can have fun spotting each image from the film in real life (click here to discover the film's locations).

Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – these ancient seaside villages with their colorful houses perched dramatically on the cliffs, the bustling little harbors, and the vineyard-covered hills that absorb all the salty air coming from the sea, are places that leave you speechless with their beauty and unique character.

Visiting the Cinque Terre:

You have three options for visiting these beautiful villages:

  • By sea: Take the ferry from Santa Margherita or Sestri Levante, where you can conveniently leave your car.
  • By train: Depart from Sori and hop on and off at each small station as you please.
  • By land: To fully enjoy all the breathtaking views the coast has to offer, you can follow the dedicated trekking app (click here).

For all information regarding the Cinque Terre National Park, please visit the official website

Camogli: A Seaside Gem on the Italian Riviera

Also known as "The City of a Thousand White Sails" for the boats that once lined its harbor, Camogli is a perfect destination to visit, even in March.

Here are some recommendations:

  • Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, and be sure to grab a piece of focaccia to enjoy along the way.
  • Wander around the pier where you'll see the small fishing boats docked after returning from their morning's work.
  • Climb up to the church where you can admire the imposing Castel Dragone overlooking the town.
  • If you're there around lunchtime, choose one of the charming little restaurants along the waterfront promenade and savor some freshly fried seafood or another typical Ligurian dish.
  • If you happen to be there in the afternoon, don't miss out on trying a "pinguino" – a cup or cone of gelato made with fior di latte (a type of Italian ice cream) that's dipped in hot chocolate to create an incredibly delicious coating.

For directions on how to get there or where to park, we'd be happy to provide all the information you need at the Looky Hotel reception desk.

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