DISCOVERING THE TERRITORY
From Liguria to Piedmont
Marina di Varazze is set in the narrow strip of coastline between the mountains and the sea, offering guests the chance to discover local beauty spots in either Liguria or southern Piedmont, both of which pride themselves on their fine food & wine.
Varazze
Varazze owes its name to the long established tradition of shipbuilding. In the west of Varazze you can see some towers and long stretches of the old city walls from the XII and XIV centuries, built to defend the medieval city from the Saracen invasion. Once visited the city centre, we suggest to go along the stretch of the promenade, called Lungomare Europa, that runs for 5 kilometres between Piani d’Invrea and the sea. A mere stone’s throw from the town centre, the visitor is completely immersed in nature.
For Mountain Bike lovers
172 trails, 23,947 m elevation gain, 185 km downhill! Trail maps are available for anyone interested in mountain bike excursions in the Monte Beigua area, along with MTP rental information, guided tours and much more. Discover dirt and rock trails with unrivalled views of the sea, trails that climb from sea level to 1,300 metres, and trails with flow sections, pathways and jumps! It’s also possible to rent e-MTBs or MTBs, book a guide for a carefree ride, and take advantage of the lift services.
Lake area
Few people know about an almost deserted forest that’s dotted with small lakes, waterfalls and chutes carved into the rock, just a few kilometres from the packed beaches. And because they’re less popular, they’re also less crowded. For anyone seeking refuge from the heat, whether that means going for a swim or simply taking a stroll in the countryside.
Genova, the “Superba”
The Marina is just half an hour by car from Genoa, where you can visit the Museo del Mare, the Aquarium, the Lanterna (Genoa’s iconic lighthouse), the Palazzo Ducale and Carlo Felice Theatre. Boccadasse deserves a special mention. This storied fishing village offers a unique atmosphere and some spectacular views. History lovers can visit dozens of monuments, historical buildings and churches, the most important and oldest of which are located in the old town, where the characteristic lanes with their multi-ethnic atmosphere represent a fine showcase for local traditions and culture.
In Arenzano, the Santuario del Bambino di Praga (Shrine of the Infant of Prague). To the west, Priamar Fort in Savona
To the east of the Marina, the Shrine of the Infant of Prague in Arenzano is well worth a visit, while a few kilometers to the west, in Savona, are the Sistina Chapel and Priamar Fort, where operas and other events are often staged. Of particular interest is the Santuario della Madonna della Misericordia [Shrine of Our Lady of Mercy]. Also nearby is the medieval town of Noli.
Beigua Nature Park / Unesco Global Geopark
The mountain that overlooks the Marina hides a fascinating natural park. Sports lovers can go horse riding, canyoning, running, cycling and much more, or alternatively stay overnight in one of the Park’s mountain huts and enjoy the local dishes on offer.
Step into prehistory in Toirano
Visitors with an interest in the underground world of caves will want to make the short trip to the Toirano cave complex. A tour that all the family will enjoy.
Taste Culture
Focaccia, pesto, oil and olives form part of the region’s culinary tradition. Well worth a visit to find out about the origins and history of these products is the Museo dell’Olivo e dell’Olio (Olive Tree Museum) in Imperia.
Truffles and wine in the Langhe area of Piedmont
A short trip to southern Piedmont takes you to the Langhe, Roero and Monferrato area, where your visit cannot fail to explore not only the local culture, but also the fine food & wine the area is famous for. Here the local fare is graced by the area’s celebrated truffles and accompanied by wines like Barbera, Barbaresco, Dolcetto and Dogliani. It is home to numerous parks, gardens and wonderful towns steeped in history and tradition, not least the medieval Castiglione Falletto, Castello di Monticello d’Alba, and the Bosco dei Pensieri in the Fontanafredda Royal Estate, with its 250 acres of vineyards.
A trip to Mondovì offers the bravest visitors the chance to enjoy a view of the area from the sky… in a hot air balloon!