Gulf of Tigullio – Liguria: villas, pine forests and historic ports between promontories and turquoise waters.
The Gulf of Tigullio extends between Portofino and Sestri Levante, embracing some of the most famous places in Liguria: Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, Zoagli, Chiavari and Lavagna. It is a varied stretch of coastline, where the green hills gently descend towards the sea, dotted with villages, marinas and Mediterranean pine forests. A landscape that alternates elegance and simplicity, nature and maritime culture. 🌊 Calm sea and walks along the promenade:
The Tigullio sea is protected by the promontories of Portofino and Punta Manara, with generally calm waters, perfect for swimming and nautical activities. The long walks by the sea of Rapallo, Chiavari and Lavagna accompany the traveler among maritime pines, moored boats and glimpses of rocky inlets.
👉 Tip: Walk from Santa Margherita to Paraggi along the coastal path: shade, sea and the scent of pine trees will accompany you to the emerald green bay. 🏘️ Historic villages and villas overlooking the blue:
Each location in the gulf has its own personality. Portofino is the most famous, with its elegant square and sailboats. Santa Margherita combines aristocratic charm and sea life. Chiavari preserves a medieval historic center full of arcades, while Zoagli clings to the cliff with its ancient railway bridge. The Art Nouveau villas and flower gardens tell the story of a cultured and well-kept Liguria.
👉 Tip: Visit the historic center of Chiavari early in the morning, among artisan shops and arcades in the shade: a daily and authentic experience. 🌿 Green promontories and sea view paths:
The territory is crossed by a network of panoramic paths that connect the villages along the coast and climb to higher ridges. The Portofino Park offers spectacular routes among olive trees, holm oaks, terraces and views of the open sea, while to the east the paths lead to Punta Manara and the fragrant scrub above Sestri Levante.
👉 Tip: Going up from Rapallo to the Sanctuary of Montallegro opens up a wide view of the entire gulf: ideal even in half a day. ⛵ Marinas, sailing and maritime culture:
Tigullio has always been linked to navigation. The ports of Rapallo, Lavagna and Santa Margherita are ideal bases for sailing, but also places to observe the fishermen's boats and the daily life linked to the sea. The relationship between coast and water is still alive and visible in the nets laid out to dry, in the fish markets and in the summer seafaring festivals.
👉 Tip: Take part in a regatta or a village festival on the waterfront: perfect moments to experience the sea in an authentic way, with music, anchovies and illuminated boats. 🍋 Flavors of the territory between sea and hills:
Food in the Gulf of Tigullio tells of fishing and agriculture. Stuffed anchovies, Genoese focaccia, pansoti with walnut sauce and stuffed vegetables are just some of the dishes to be tasted, accompanied by local wines and fragrant oils produced in the inland hills.
👉 Tip: Taste hot focaccia in a bakery in Lavagna or a slice of vegetable pie with a glass of Bianchetta Genovese.
The Gulf of Tigullio is a subtle balance between refinement and simplicity: every village, every path and every bay tell of a Liguria where beauty can be discovered in small steps.