genoa , cinque terre and sea

Liguria Region
Where it is
Region of northern Italy lapped by the Ligurian Sea and bordering with France.
The land
A mountainous and hilly land, Liguria is bounded to the south by the Ligurian Sea, and to
the north by a mountainous arch in which the Maritime Alps are joined to the Apennines.
Once upon a time...
Many believe that, in one of his cells, Giuseppe Mazzini, imprisoned in 1830 by Carlo Felice
of Savoy, contemplated the birth of the “Giovine Italia”. One thing is certain, the Fortress of
Priamar in Savona, built on the eponymous hillside by the Republic of Genoa in 1542, still
today represents the city’s crowning glory in terms of its historical-artistic heritage. A
bastion (erected on the site of an ancient pre-Roman oppidum), whose millenary
vicissitudes are perfectly retraced at Savona’s Civic Museum of Archaeology, housed in the
Loggia of the Castle, in which ample museum spaces merge with a fascinating
archaeological area, offering visitors hidden glimpses of the Priamar: from late antiquity to
the modern era, through the high and low Medieval periods.
Sights
A wonderful blend of seaside scenery, tradition and worldliness. Starting with the coastline
of Tigullio, boasting renowned beachfronts the likes of Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo,
Sestri Levante, and Chiavari, with its enchanting Baia del Silenzio.
A succession of ample beaches, marinas and settings just waiting to be explored, which, in
the evenings, give way to glamorous parties and fashionable shopping, above all in the
many charming alleyways, where one can still find hand-knit embroidery work and original
damask fabrics. As an alternative, head for the no less attractive Riviera di Ponente, dotted
with gems such as Sanremo, the city overflowing with flowers and palm trees, renowned for
its Festival of Italian Song and for its Casinò; or the refined Bordighera, passing by the
town of Portovenere, with its fisherman’s quarter, and Alassio, which stands out for its 3
kilometres of fine sandy beachfront.
A must destination for unabashed yachtsmen and VIPs passing through is the exclusive
marina of Portofino, and if an incursion to Genoa is planned, don’t miss visiting the
Aquarium and Lantern Tower (which has been the city’s symbol for centuries).
At La Spezia, the must stops are the Duomo and Castello di San Giorgio, literally divided in
two (with one part built during the 1300s and the other in the early 17th century), while
those seeking a unique nature experience can go whale watching in the area re-baptised
the “Sanctuary of Cetaceans”. Specially designed boats with all the necessary safety
measures take tourists out to socialise with sperm whales, whale calves, dolphins and
grampus, while fully respecting the complex ecosystem and allowing all of these species to
swim about safely and freely.
Famous figures
Liguria: land of musicians, poets and seafaring voyagers. Christopher Columbus was born
here in 1451, the man credited with the discovery of America in 1492. And Liguria is also
the birthplace of Nino Bixio, one of Giuseppe Garibaldi’s most faithful followers, the
revolutionary Giuseppe Mazzini, musician Niccolò Paganini and the poet and patriot
Goffredo Mameli, who
penned the Italian
national anthem.
Food and drink
Liguria is synonymous
with pesto, the
celebrated green sauce
made with basil, pine
nuts, garlic and
pecorino cheese, which
for centuries has had
gourmets the world over
licking their chops.
Here, in its undisputed
homeland, you can
savour pesto with
trenette or trofie in the
region’s many
restaurants, where it is
often proposed in menus with many other typical dishes.
From pansotti (filled pasta) combined with sauces made from walnuts, mushrooms or
cheese, to tomaxelle (roulade of meat with cheese, eggs and bread), the unusual cime alla
Genovese (meat stuffed with herbs, carrots, eggs, cheese and brain).
Ligurian cuisine also features a panoply of fish and seafood specialities, with ciuppin (a
variety of fish cooked with tomatoes, celery, carrots and onions) and the exquisite zuppa di
budego (angler fish), rinsed down, perhaps, with a nice bottle of Vermentino wine, or Pigato
from the area of the Cinqueterre. Still, the undisputed queen of Genovese gastronomy is
the ubiquitous focaccia (or fugassa in the local dialect), to be savoured in slices just about
anywhere, as was the case in antiquity. In fact, there are those who claim that in the late
1500s people even munched on it in church.
Amid a variety of excellences, a goodly sampling of sweets begins with baci from Alassio
(small balls of hazelnut dough combined with a fine layer of dark chocolate) and pandolce
genovese (similar to panettone).
Room with a view
Fish-hooks, old nets, shells and woven baskets serve as a backdrop for the majority of
fishermen’s old homes, where, fortune permitting, tourists can find lodging during the
summer season, in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure and other enchanting little towns
clinging to the coastline, perched over the sea. Such characteristic spots can offer a 360
degree outlook on life in an old fishermen’s village, in perfect harmony with the rhythms of
the locals.
Liguria, not only sea but land to love
"Liguria Terradamare" (Land to love) is a slogan that leads to the discovery of a land
that, apart from bathing tourism, offers a lot more! It is, in fact, land and sea. Villages
where time has stopped for centuries, woods filled with chestnuts, rich flavours and tastes
of dishes that have created great recipes with typical products from its own territory.
During the summer Liguria transforms itself in a natural stage that holds shows, festivals
and concerts under the stars. But also autumn proposes different kinds of occasions for a
different kind of vacation. Elements to be discovered. Liguria is a land that knows how to
give strong feelings and emotions, a land to love!
GENOA, RIVIERA AND CINQUE TERRE
Sojourn in Riviera or in Genoa
1st DAY
GENOA FULL DAY
The tour starts with a short drive through the suburbs to reach
Boccadasse, a nice former fishermen village, and Castelletto, one of
the best panoramic spots from which it is possible to see the whole of
the old town and Portofino into the distance.
On foot guests visit the gothic-romanesque cathedral of S. Lawrence,
with its wonderful frescoes and the famous chapel of S. John the
Baptist. Then on to piazza De Ferrari with the Opera House and the
School of Arts. At a short distance is the Jesuit church, astonishing
example of baroque, preserving works by Rubens and Guido Reni.
Here rises the Ducal Palace too, ancient seat of the city government
and now used for temporary art exhibitions. A gentle slope leads to
the medieval Soprana Gate and Columbus House. Onwards to piazza
Campetto and Via degli Orefici, an area rich in ancient charm and old
confectioners'.
The tour takes to Banchi, once thriving marketplace and seat of the
ancient moneychangers, today overlooked by the typical church of S.
Peter, with painted facade, and livened up by the numerous stalls.
S. George palace cannot be let out, where it is said the notable
prisoner Marco Polo dictated his Milione. Right opposite is the Expo’,
the Old Port, restored by Renzo Piano in 1992, nowadays the most
touristic area in the city, with the Aquarium, the Bigo and the Citta’
dei Bambini (Children’s town).
TIME FOR LUNCH.
In the afternoon guests will be led to Via Garibaldi, the most
monumental street in town. Noble street par excellence, its palaces
and gardens offer one of the best example of the 1500 and 1600 in
Genoa. The whole of the buildings are nowdays UNESCO listed. It is
possible here to visit a couple of them, to enjoy the charm and luxury
genoese noble families once lived in (entrace fees).
In the same neighbour hood it is possible to see P.zza San Matteo, a
very nice example of Italian medieval Piazza, with noble buildings with
marble facades and the elegant church San Matteo.
2nd DAY
FIVIERA FULL DAY
The group reaches Rapallo, to visit its tiny streets and tipical shops.
The guide will lead to the main sights: the sea promenade, built in the
1800s when these areas became very fashionable seaside resorts, the
ancient castle, built in the 1500ss to defend the coastline, and the
main entrance gate, 1600s.
Here guests can have some free time to enjoy strolling around and do
some shopping.
By bus we then reach Santa Margherita Ligure, rising on two different
bays, still preserves its original charm with its dayly fishmarket and
tiny shops. The guide will lead guests through the narrow streets to
the main church of Santa Margherita and uphill to a very nice
panoramic spot in the park of an ancient Villa, Villa Durazzo
Centurione.
LUNCH
In the afternoon the group reaches Portofino by ferry. Getting to the
village from the sea offers the best panorama possible. Here the guide
will escort clients to the church of San Giorgio, on top of the hill. Here
from the view is really astonishing: the entire bay of Portofino
underneath and into the distance, on special dry days, it is even
possible to see the island of Corsica. After visiting the church, which
is said to preserve S. George’s reliques, and a stroll in the typical
churchyard, people can walk back to the main piazza or walk
onwards to reach the ancient castle (good walking shoes needed) and
onwards to the lighthouse.
After some freetime the groups meets back on the main square to
reach the ferry and travel back to Santa margherita where the coach
will be waiting to drive them back to the hotel.
3rd DAY
CINQUE TERRE FULL DAY
It the group is very small it is possible to rent a minivan. Excursions
are normally by ferry. In case of rough sea, the group will have to
travel by train from village to village.
The famous five villages, nowadays World heritage, are a unique
place to visit.
The tour starts in Monterosso, one of the largest villages with the
best beaches. the village is divided into two parts from San Cristoforo
hill and the old part of the village, protected by a rock spur, still
presents the maritime village. From the capuchin church, a great
view over the entire bay.
Reach Vernazza, one of the most pictoresque, with an old part
perched on top of the hill, dominated by its castle.
The guide will escort the group along the famous “Via dell’Amore”,
where from people can enjoy astonishing views.
The group will reach the very small Vernazza, with its spectacular
views. Then onwards to Manarola, one the most photogenic of the
five villages, people can explore hundreds of narrow alleys and pretty
pastel squares. A visit to local producers of the famous liquor
Sciacchetrà can be organized.
Finally Riomaggiore, with its lively alleys and ancient churches.
Some free time will be given in each village, so that visitors will be
able to enjoy some shopping or have time to sip a coffe on the main
squares.
The itineraries vary according to where the group will be lodged.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in
Genoa or surroundings, 3 days guide, 3 days transport, entrance
fees, boat euro 140 p.p.
EVENING TOURS GENOA
Evening visits to the old city centre will introduce clients to local night life. People will be
intrigued by the winding alleys and their sotries. Ghosts and witches crowd the past of
these streets and palaces together with lovers and revolutionaries. People will discover the
secrets of the ancient town of Genoa and will be able to anjoy a brief cocktail at a local bar.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, cocktail euro 50 p.p.
COOKING EXPERIENCES
Whether a brief introduction or a proper hands on short course, people will enjoy the
experience of seeing how pesto is produced, how ravioli are stuffed and finally will taste the
cooked produce.
INTRODUCTION TO LIGURIAN CUISINE: at lunch time the group will meet the local chef
(this can be arranged either in Genoa, Rapallo or Recco) who will explain them the main
criteria of a simple but hearty way of cooking: pesto sauce, pasta and stuffed vegetable
pastries,
COOKING SHORT COURSE: late in the morning (around 10,30) the group will meet the
local chef at the restaurant for a real hands on lesson to learn about our local cuisine and
to try and do some of our dishes in order to be able to cook them at home for friends and
relatives. Dishes include pesto sauce and vegetable dishes.
Quotation for minimum 8 pax , euro 50 p.p.
FOCACCIA TASTINGS
Discover about one of the most typical local
products. At a local restaurant discover how
focacia is produced (baked in the oven with oil
and salt). Taste its severel sorts: with olives,
onions, aubergines or sage and finally the
famous focaccia di Recco or with cheese, which
is only produced in the small town of Recco a
few kilomters from Genoa.
Quotation for minimum 8 pax , euro 10 p.p. (
optional with a tour)
WINE TASTINGS
A series of different wine tastings can be
arranged in order to offer examples of tipical
Ligurian and Italian wines.
Wine tastings can be organized on different levels:
SHORT BREAK: along the itinerary in Genoa it is possible to pop in an old traditional
gorcery store whose owner will b deilighted to offer you focaccia (a very typical sort of
bread) and local white wine while chatting about local products.
PROPER WINE TASTING: can be arranged at lunch time or in the evening at several local
restaurants in Genoa and along the Riviera. The somlier will introduce their features and
help fully enjoy the different tastes and qualities. From a minimum of 3 to a maximum of
10 different wines from the Ligurian region or, at choice, from Italy.
VISIT TO LOCAL WINE PRODCERS: both the Tigullio gulf and the Cinque Terre area offer a
good selection of producers who can show you around their “cantina” (cellar).
Quotation for minimum 8 pax ,tasting 10 vines, euro 36 p.p. ( optional with a tour)
OLIVE OIL TASTINGS:
discover the difference between Ligurian and Tuscan, appreciate the importance of the
“label” DOP (d’origine protetta, of protected origin). This experience normally srtarts with
an introduction by the chef and is followed by a proper meal.
Can be organized either in Genoa or Portofino
Quotation for minimum 8 pax , euro 36 p.p. ( optional with a tour)
PAINTING LESSONS
A proper “maestro” will lead you to some of the most fascinating sights and will teach and
guide you in the production of your own masterpiece. (Translator needed)
Quotation for minimum 8 pax , euro 30 p.p. not included transport, translator
EVENING OR AFTERNOON CLASSES
Interactive and entertaining short lectures about Italy, Italian culture and Liguria.
Lecture of any kind can be arranged. Among them: Contemporary Italy: how Italians live
today, a country of contrasts and controversies; Genoa and Liguria: history and territory….;
Great Italian painters: from Giotto to the Baroque
Quotation for minimum 8 pax , half day, euro 30 p.p. not included transport.
ITALIAN SHORT COURSE
A proper trained teacher will introduce you to the Italian Language. A series of short
sessions in order to enable you a very basic communication: how to order at a restaurant,
how to greet and introduce yourself. After a couple of evenings people will be able to
experiment on site their abilities.
Quotation for minimum 8 pax , half day, euro 30 p.p. not included transport.
Cooking experiences and tastings can be organized with groups of different sizes. The
restaurants vary according to group size.
CARRARA HALF DAY OR FULL DAY BY CHOICE
The half day tour includes only Michelangelo quarry, the Marble Museum and a quick visit
to a workshop. Lunch is in Carrara.
The group will reach the quarry where Michelangelo used to chose his marble from.
And visit the Marble Museum where pieces from different periods exemplify the various
techniques of marble working and carving. Enjoy a
demonstration by a local sculptor.
LUNCH normally in Carrara
Reach Carrara and see the town’s Duomo. Study its rose
window, a masterpiece in marble and admire the various
styles it is constructed in. stroll along the streets of the old
town. A stop in Sarzana is possible, a nice ancient
medieval town along the way back.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting
point hotel in Genoa or surroundings, guide, transport,
entrance fees,(marble museum,sculptor studio,marble
gallery ), euro 70 p.p.
Optional : wine and food – from a minimum 30 euros
lunch, 20 euros lard, cheeses, wine, oil etc
LUCCA AND VILLA TORRIGIANI FULL DAY
People will explore one of the nicest private villas in the area. Still belonging to its owners,
the Princes Colonna di Stigliano, visit its historic rooms, with baroque frescoes and a nice
Renaissance architecture, stroll in the “Garden of Flora” with its statue-filled cave.
LUNCH
The afternoon is spent in Lucca. A wonderful medieval town, with its ancient walls and
ramparts still intact. The guide will lead the group through the old town to visit the
Romanesque Duomo di San Martino with carvings by Nicola Pisano, the white marble
chapels of the Church of San Frediano and the Church of San.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
SHOPPING TOURS FULL DAY
Excursions to Designer Outlet McArthur Glen. This shopping centre is a short drive away
from the main city of Genoa. Here people can find some of the most famous brands:
Adidas, Aspesi, Benetton, Brooksfield, Bruno Magli, Bulgari, Cacharel, Calvin Klein,
Belstaff, Conte of florence, Corso Roma, Diesel, Dolce&Gabbana, Elena Miro, Etro, Facis,
Ferrè, Frette, Furla, Gas, Guess, La Perla, Levi’s, Marierlla Burani, Mandarina Duck,
Marina Yachting, Moschino, Motivi, Nannini, Napapijri, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Swarovski,
Versace, Hugo Boss
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 50 p.p.
CINQUE TERRE
Reach Manarola by bus. Visit of the
village, then walk along the Via
dell'Amore till Riomaggiore (20 min.
approx).
Visit of Riomaggiore.
By train or ferry reach Vernazza, visit of
the ld town and LUNCH
Onwards by train or ferry to Monterosso
al Mare.
Visit of the village.
Here the bus will meet the group again
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
CINQUE TERRE AND PORTOVENERE
Reach manarola by bus.
Visit of the village, then walk along the Via dell'Amore till Riomaggiore (20 min. approx).
Visit of Riomaggiore.
Onwards by train or ferry to Monterosso al Mare. LUNCH
In the afternoon reach Portovenere by ferry.
Visit of Portovenere.
Leave Portovenere after about anb hour to reach La Spezia by ferry
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
VAL DI VARA - VARESE LIGURE - SESTRI LEVANTE
Leave Genoa or the Riviera to reach the Vara valley, a luxurious green oasis with small
villages and medieaval small towns, charming silent landscape crossed by the Vara river.
VARESE LIGURE visit of the ancient village, built in the XIIIth century, one of the most
interesting European examples of landscape preservation and improvement of traditional
jobs.
LUNCH in a traditional restaurant to enjoy typical dishes (eg. lasagne with scallion sauce,
corsetti with pesto - home made pasta - , castagnaccio - cake made with nut four).
Reach back the coast. Stop in Sestri Levante, to visti the charming village rising on two
tranquil bays. Walk up to the Capucin Church with its astonishing view and the Presepe
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
PORTOVENERE AND ITS ISLANDS
Reach La Spezia and by ferry reach Palmaria island. Here people can follow a two hour
track with breathtaking views over the whole gulf and the Cinque Terre.
Alternatively the tour can be led by ferry to travel around Palmaria and the other two
islands Tino and Tinetto.
Reach Portovenere for LUNCH. (If
you chose the trekking, it's advisable
to have lunch on Palmaria island)
In the afternoon visit of the
charming village of Portovenere and
of the Olioteca, a special "museum"
which shows the best examples of
local oil production.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax ,
tour only, starting point hotel in
Genoa or surroundings, guide,
transport, entrance fees, euro 70
p.p.
PORTOVENERE, LERICI E IL GOLFO DEI POETI
Reach La Spezia wherefrom the group wll leave by ferry to reach Lerici, the village beloved
by Byron and Shelley.
Visit the village, with its castle and keep dating back to the XIIIth century.
From Lerici, reach the suburb of S. Teresa, where it is possible to visit a muscle production
centre.
LUNCH in Lerici.
In the afternoon reach Portovenere and visit of its old centre.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
Itinerary Savona
The Savonese area is home to precious handmade goods created by families of
artisans who for centuries have handed down secrets, techniques, and skills from
father to son.
Between Albissola Marina and Albisola Superiore, Altare, and Tovo San Giacomo, take a
journey through time and the artistic traditions of producing ceramics, blown glass, and
monumental tower clocks.
Ceramics and maiolica in Albissola Marina
Five kilometers from Savona lies Albissola Marina, where the history of ceramic production
stretches back over six hundred years. Along the seafront, visitors literally "walk" over a
plein air work of art, the artists' stroll. This sequence of mosaics is assembled from five
million small ceramic tesserae that reproduce celebrated artistic figures of the twentiethcentury in large panels. A few steps farther along is the Casa Mazotti: a beautiful example
of futurist architecture and the home and studio of the ceramicist Tullio d'Albissola, which
currently houses the family business and keeps a few of his works. Not far off is the 16th
century Church of Nostra Signora della Concordia (Our Lady of Harmony) in the historic
center. Inside is the Adoration of the Shepherds, a maiolica ceramic panel from 1576.
Before leaving the town, the Villa Faraggiana on viale Salomoni is worth a visit. Here,
among gilded stuccoes and prized statues and furnishings, visitors can admire the
excellent ceramic pavement in the Gallery of Seasons.
The ancient ceramics of Albisola Superiore
From Albissola Marina we continue to Albisola Superiore, just one kilometer away. Here
too, ceramics enjoy a lengthy tradition that still continues today with factories in
production and the Manlio Trucco Ceramics museum. Its rooms house archeological finds
from the Roman era, local ceramics produced between the 15th and 19th centuries, and
contemporary panels by famous artists such as Luzzati and Arturo Martini. After the
museum visit, we return to Savona and take provincial road SS29 toward the ancient city
of glass: Altare.
Altare, the city of
glass
18 kilometers from
Albisola Superiore
lies Altare, a town
known for centuries
for its production of
white (transparent)
blown glass. Here, in
the oratory of San
Sebastiano we visit
the Glass museum,
where large vases and
numerous valuable
pieces are displayed
in crystal showcases.
It is a gallery of
historic, artistic, and
artisanal value, which
witnesses the centuries old work of the master glassmakers. This art was introduced to the
village in the 12th century by the Benedictine monks of Bergeggi. The fortunes and value of
the glass works carries on today in the craftsmen¿s workshops and in the art galleries
where unique pieces of exquisite delicacy are available for purchase.
Artisans and ancient trades in Finalborgo
From Altare, retracing the coast toward Savona, take the A10 highway to Finale Ligure.
Here in Finalborgo, historic center of the city, the first Saturday and Sunday of every
month you can visit the fair of old things and ancient trades. The event attracts numerous
visitors and fans. For two days, stroll among the characteristic Medieval streets inside the
historic 13th century walls, make a purchase, and browse through the stalls of
merchandise on display: antique furniture, crafts, and typical flea market items. In the
heart of the ancient capital of the Del Carretto marquisate discover numerous craft shops
and splendid aristocratic buildings.
Also worth a visit are the Gavone Castle and the Basilica of San Biagio, which preserves
works from the late-Renaissance and Baroque eras. In August, the whole town travels back
in time a few centuries to the 15th century with its Voyage to the Middle Ages event: for a
few days there is a series of shows, parades in period dress, and craft shops and taverns
open where the merchants accept only the ancient coinage of the marquisate: the "finalino".
The tower clocks of Bardino Nuovo
Just behind Finale Ligure, the town of Tovo San Giacomo overlooks the Maremola Valley.
Past the hamlet of Bardino Vecchio, where you can admire decorative ceramic elements of
Arabic origin on the 13th century bell-tower of the Church of San Giovanni, we reach
Bardino Nuovo. Here, in Piazza San Sebastiano, there is the Tower Clock Museum, which
documents the history of the art of building timekeeping machines. The Begallo family,
active from 1860 to 1980, decorated the bell-towers of many Italian and foreign churches.
Among the rare period pieces in the museum (the oldest dates to the 17th century) and the
first clock the family built, there are also complete internal mechanisms, sheaves, and
numerals. But not all the elements of clock making have remained here: grand clock hands
extend from the facade of the Bergallo family home-workshop - visible on the road to
Magliolo - while other gears compose its railings.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
Itinerary Imperia and Albenga
Nestled within the territory of Albenga, a spiritual center of great renown since the fifth
century, are superb religious buildings overlooking the sea from the coastline or slightly
inland. The route, which includes sanctuaries, seventeenth-century cathedrals and refined
parish churches, culminates in the Sanctuary of Montegrazie, which houses the most
important cycle of frescoes found within the entire territory of Imperia.
From Albenga to Laigueglia
Albenga has since Roman times been the administrational and religious centre of a vast
territory its role is demonstrated by the importance of the episcopal nucleus which consists
in a Baptistery, of the 5th century, and the Cathedral, built in the same period and of the
two extra moenia cemetery-basilicas of San Vittore and San Calocero; developed to the
north and south respectively along the via Julia Augusta and also dating from the 5th
century.
The diocese offers numerous examples of religious devotion: parish churches, sanctuaries,
oratories and simple country shrines. Starting from the town, one of the most significant
itineraries through the profound religious beliefs of this region follows the coast visiting the
western part of the diocese.
Alassio, dominated by the sanctuary of Nostra Signora della Guardia, perhaps bears in the
title of the parish church of Sant'Ambrogio the memory of an early Mediaeval settlement;
the church of Santa Croce is an example of Romanesque architecture arisen on the ancient
road; the church of San Francesco conserves the wooden altars typical of the oratory.
Laigueglia, a village set in a crescent along the beach close in Capo Mele, is dominated by
the 18th century parish church of San Matteo, with a spectacular multi-level curved facade
crowned with statues and closed by two bell-towers with small domes in polychrome
majolica.
Andora
Beyond Laigueglia you pass Capo Mele to reach Andora, a centre of parish jurisdiction
along the Roman road and later a major feudal seat where the Romanesque-Gothic church
of Santi Giacomo e Filippo, all in decorative stone from the nearby Capo Mele quarry, with
a large splayed portal and
inside great columns and
ogival arches stands in a
dominant beside the castle.
From Cervo to Diano
Castello
You know come to Cervo, a
lovely village clustered on a
hill overlooking the sea,
crowned by the spectacular
parish church of San
Glovanni Battista a
grandiose work by G. B.
Marvaldi (commenced in
1686), opening onto a
courtyard which is a vast
articulated terrace
overlooking the sea, which
has a concave facade is
decorated with fine stucco-work and a belltower dating from the second half of the 18th
century. The village conserves excellent reminders of Mediaeval times including the church
of the Cavalieri di Malta, today the oratory of Santa Caterina and at the top of the village
the structures of the feudal castle. Diano Castello has maintained the appearance of the
Mediaeval walled village, and is dominated by the parish church of San Nicolò, an
impressive Baroque construction by G.B. Marvaldi (1699).
Imperia
Once past the Capo Berta headland, you come to the provincial capital of Imperia, made up
of the ancient centres of Oneglia and Porto Maurizio. The old centre of Oneglia conserves
the collegiate of San Giovanni Battista, a rare example of late-Baroque architecture with a
cupola.Rising above Porto Maurizio is the majestic Duomo, designed by Gaetano Cantoni in
1781 with a neo-classical facade and imposing centralplan interior, marked by Corinthian
columns. The church of San Pietro, opening spectacularly onto the coast towards Taggia
and San Remo, is richly decorated with, among others, frescoes by Tommaso and Maurizio
Carrega, the convent of the Poor Clares is of Mediaeval origin but 18th century appearance
the church conserves fine painted works as does the oratory of San Leonardo. Immediately
inland from Porto Maurizio - the sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie or di Montegrazie
rises high within sight of the sea amongst thick olive groves. Built in 1450, the interior
conserves perhaps the most important cycles of frescoes on the Imperia territory. The
scenes of the Giudizio Finale were completed in 1483 by Tommaso and Matteo Biasacci,
from Busca; the frescoes in the right apse were painted by Gabriele della Cella in 1498 and
those in the right aisle were commissioned by Pietro Guido da Ranzo in 1524.
Rezzo
From Oneglia climb the Impero valley and pass over the colle di San Bartolomeo to enter
Valle Arroscia, the most important of the valleys that converge upon Albenga; here Pieve di
Teco lies at the centre of a large amphitheatre of minor valleys, full of settlements and fine
churches. This tour ends with the sanctuary of Nostra Signora del Sepolcro di Rezzo which
stands in a beautiful natural setting.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
Genova Itinerary
The great aristocratic villas
of Genoa and the
surrounding area have
bequeathed to the city's
residents large green
spaces that today are open
to the public.
They are also highly
important cultural venues,
the seat of museums and
collections, and the location
for events of international
prominence. They can be
visited comfortably in one or
two days.
Parchi di Nervi
From the Viale delle Palme where you can stroll between
two rows of palms with tall
trunks and thick fronds - we leave the station parking area behind us and enter the Parchi
di Nervi. Born from the union of the gardens of Villa Grimaldi (home of the Frugone
Collection), Villa Serra (home of the Modern Art Gallery), and Villa Groppallo, the 25 acres
of green can be explored following the paths through wide English-style lawns, cluster
pines with crowns like umbrellas, and large palm trees. Among them rises the majestic and
rare Giant of Chile, one of few specimens in Italy. Indigenous to South America and
recognizable by its broad, squat trunk, it is approximately 150 years old and 10 meters tall.
Not far off, the rose garden is at its best when flowering, from April to November. A few
more steps away is the sea: whether calm or blustery, it's always a beautiful sight for
observers along the two kilometers of the Anita Garibaldi trail, which follows the curve of
the cliff and leads to the small harbor at Nervi, the heart of the ancient fishing village. From
the trail, the view can reach all the way to the Portofino Promontory and west to Cape
Mortola. Along the way visitors can pause to rest at establishments featuring outdoor
tables, gaze at the villas half hidden by olive trees and flowers, and the Saracen tower and
the castle. Before heading into the city center, we suggest a visit to the museum of Villa
Luxoro, near Capolungo, with an entrance on via Aurelia,
Villetta Dinegro - downtown Genoa
From Nervi, you reach the city center traveling across ten kilometers of the city overlooking
the sea. Arriving in Piazza Corvetto, looking past the statue dedicated to Mazzini, you'll
immediately catch a glimpse of the waterfall that cuts through the evergreen park of
Villetta Dinegro: an oasis of calm reached in a just few steps, leaving behind the roar of the
city, known above all because it houses the Edoardo Chiossone Oriental Art Museum.
Large Buddhist sculptures, weapons and suits of armor, ceramics and porcelain, clothing
and fabrics, enamels, masks, and ancient paintings: elements and images of the
permanent exhibit that add their allure to the attractions outside. From the museum's
terrace there is an exceptional view over the rooftops of the 16th century villas on Via
Garibaldi and the Medieval slate of the historic center, along to the "Lanterna" lighthouse.
Along the walkways of camelias and grand trees surrounding the late 19th-century statue
dedicated to Giuseppe Mazzini, the half-length Carrara marble statue depicting the poet
Giosuè Carducci, and rare flowers, discover the unique nature of this urban oasis,
complete with a pond and Chinese gazebo atop the hill. Visitors with a little time to spare
and admirers of the centuries old trees can proceed to Piazza Manin, a few blocks away,
and take the historic train toward Casella, located inland. Here, on via Fieschi, admire a
spectacular Cedar of Lebanon that is three hundred years old and thirty meters tall.
Villa Serra di Comago - Sant'Olcese
Ascending the Polcevera valley from Bolzaneto, you arrive in Sant'Olcese, a Genoan town
that is home to Villa Serra: two noble residences (the 18th century villa and the Tudor
house in perfect English style) are surrounded by a grand park commissioned by the
marquis Orso Serra during the second half of the 19th century and created by Carlo
Cusani, also a marquis, who here displays the best of his talent as a Romantic architect
and landscaper. The garden is characterized by a skillful play of water, diverted from the
Comago river. Along the lanes that lead to the three lakes and the spectacular chain of
water (a stream with numerous cascades), there are majestic trees and exotic botanical
species: among them immerges the monumental sequoia and the groups of beeches and
red firs that stand out against the evergreen background of the fields, magnolias, pagoda
trees, and cedars.
Villa Durazzo Pallavicini - Genova Pegli
From Sant'Olcese we return to the city after descending back down the Polcevera valley.
Once in Sestri Ponente, we suggest a detour to Mount Gazzo, following Via Sant'Alberto
from Via Merano. Following the signs, in just a few minutes you can climb up to the
sanctuary, 421 meters above sea level. Here you can savor the panorama from two different
angles: on the coast, where your gaze roams for miles from the lighthouse in Genoa along
to Arezano, and then over the ample valleys of the hinterland from the viewpoint at the
back of the church. Returning down to the seaside, after a few kilometers you reach the
seafront of Pegli. Behind it, on a parallel street, lies the entrance to the Durazzo Pallavicini
Park. Even your first steps are picturesque along the path to the villa, home of the Ligurian
Archeological museum that houses, among its various finds, interesting objects from
Neolithic farmers, the skeletal remains of bears and lions from the caves of the last Ice Age,
and marble from ancient Rome.Not far from the museum, a unique voyage into nature
begins, conceived as a landscape in three acts by the Genoan architect Michele Canzio, a
designer and creator of the 19th century version of the park. The entrance is marked by an
inscription that invites the visitor-traveler to leave behind the agitations of the soul. After
reading some thoughts on the transience of life on earth, you are truly ready to enter.
Every path displays a precious botanical species: holm-oaks along the Gothic trail, firs on
the Mountain Retreat, and the celebrated camellias along the path of the same name,
which create a true spectacle when they flower in March. And there is no shortage of
valuable specimens such as the copper beech, the camphor, and the cedar of Lebanon that
further enrich the exotic orientalized landscapes of the garden. Among other things the
garden features a Chinese pagoda, a Roman bridge, a triumphal arch, a Greek temple, a
Turkish gazebo, and an Egyptian obelisk. And, in line with the tastes of the time, there are
also a coffee house and a secret garden. Don't miss the botanical garden commissioned by
the marquise
Durazzo
Grimaldi, with
rare botanical
specimens.
Villa Duchessa
di Galliera Voltri
Five kilometers
from Pegli we
reach Voltri, in
Vico Nicolò da
Corte. Here we
find the
entrance to the
Duchess of
Galliera villa,
which owes its
name and the
current tidiness
of the villa and
its park to its
final noble
owner, who
lived in the
second half of
the 19th
century. The
building,
constructed at
the foot of the
Castellara hills
and
characterized by
skillful scenic
design of the Neoclassic school, faces onto an Italian garden featuring magnolias,
camellias, and prize roses. A little further on, the rational and symmetrical geometries give
way to the variety of forms and romantic scenes typical of English gardens. Crossing the
tree-lined lane we come upon two grottoes, an arch, a small temple, and a few marble
elements that evoke Dantean infernal travels. The atmosphere is broken after a piece by
the Dairy, an atypical construction but fashionable for the times, similar to a transalpine
chalet. And then, more little arches, grottoes, and temples, before reaching the dense
expanse of horse chestnuts and the enclosure that has been home to fallow deer, deer, and
goats since the 60s. From here, the landscape changes again: in the remaining section of
the park you can see numerous centuries old trees including olives and platanus orientalis,
an imposing specimen of plane tree over 150 years old and 32 meters tall. The trail
continues toward the fort, the Belvedere with its particular Gothic revival construction,
underlying caves, and waterfalls. Before returning to the Italian garden, pause to admire
the nymphaeum with the Putto fountain.
Parco Pallavicino - Arenzano
Eight kilometers from Voltri we reach Arenzano, a coastal locale of western Liguria that is
home to a large park, smack in the center. It is the great English garden of the Negrotto
Cambiaso villa, the city seat, and the park takes its name from the marquise Sauli
Pallavicino. This lady, near the end of the 19th century, shaped its current appearance
following the fashion of the time. Thus today, around the villa, which is shaped like a
medieval castle with crenellated towers, visitors enjoy the spectacle of refined and imposing
shapes, and common plants as well as exotic botanical varieties that are rare in Liguria.
Locating the most ancient and valuable trees is easy: they are marked with plaques that
describe their names and ages. Along the pathways that skirt the grottoes, gazebos,
streams, and water features, the 125-year old, 30-meter tall Cedar of Lebanon grabs your
attention, rising above the swan lake in the lower section of the park. Another attention
getter is the camphor, a beautiful exotic specimen with a broad, dense crown, imported by
Marquise Pallavicino in 1880. No less impressive, both in beauty and number, are the
centuries old sequoias, the exotic palms, and the grand magnolias. In addition to the
botanical rarities, once cultivated in the monumental Art Nouveau greenhouse - one of the
largest in Europe and which today hosts events and art exhibits - the rich fauna solicits
special interest: geese, peacocks, ducks, and turtles populate the fields and small lakes.
Quotation for minimum 15 pax , tour only, starting point hotel in Genoa or
surroundings, guide, transport, entrance fees, euro 70 p.p.
"Pesto" and olive paté, the Liguria region reveals
its diabolical flavours
"Even cities think they are the work of the mind or of chance, but neither the one nor the
other are sufficient to keep their walls upright". We could use this description of Italo
Calvino, a famous Ligurian writer, to describe Genoa. All of the traits of the thin and bony
Liguria are in Genoa, which the writer celebrates in one of his invisible towns. "A town that
exists and that has a simple secret. It knows only departures and no returns. A white town
exposed to the moon where the streets wind like balls of wool. Where men of different
nations had the same dream and decided to build the town they had seen in their dream".
Genoa, a city of churches, like the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, whose location caused the
church-square to remain the only public space during the entire Middle Ages, in a city
lacking squares and a seat for laic power. A beautiful city of Baroque, Renaissance and
Medieval palazzi, such as Palazzo San Giorgio, which - built in 1260 - in 1451 became the
seat of the Banco di S. Giorgio, at the time considered one of the most efficient and
organized banks in Europe and strong-room of the Republic of Genoa until the 17th
century. It is said that Marco Polo, when a prisoner there, dictated Il Milione to Rustichello
da Pisa, his prison companion after the victory of the Genoese
at Meloria.
A plunge into the glorious past of the Marine Republic is
offered to the traveller who, between May and June, stops in
the Ligurian district. Nevertheless this is completely possible
only once every four years, when the regatta of the ancient
Marine Republics is held. These distinguish themselves by
different colours and figureheads. Blue and the winged horse
for Amalfi; white and the griffin for Genoa; purple and the eagle for Pisa; green and the lion
for Venice. With the idea of restoring the link between Genoa and the sea, the architect
Renzo Piano has redesigned the whole area in the most ancient part of the harbour, located
in front of Palazzo San Giorgio and Piazza Caricamento. Today this area offers walks along
the seafront, great areas for feasts and concerts, Il Bigo, the panoramic lift, the 18th
century houses of Porto Franco, a modern congress centre and the Aquarium, that since
1998 has opened La Nave Blu (the blue ship) (connected to the already existing structure
through a large bridge), thus becoming the largest Aquarium in Europe.
In Pra, in the province of Genoa, the visitor receives the first of many culinary surprises:
the tasting of pesto, made with basil that in Pra is picked the whole year round, garlic,
pine-seeds, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Sardinian Pecorino cheese and extra virgin olive
oil from the Ligurian Riviera, produced with olives of Taggiasca quality, first planted by the
Benedictine monks in the 13th century.
Proceeding along the beautiful Ligurian coast, one first reaches Savona, the production
centre of beautiful ceramics, then Alassio with its sweet surprises such as the fagoccio
(sweet bread enriched with candied and dried fruit, aromatised with aniseed, orange
blossom essence and Marsala) and kisses from Alassio, sweets made with hazelnuts. It is
also advisable to stop at Imperia, a land rich in culinary treasures. Here one can taste
another typical dish of Ligurian cooking: pansoti in salsa di noci (a mixture of eggs, flour
and white wine, stuffing of beetroots, borage, spinach, eggs and curds, seasoned with
minced nuts, marjoram, soft crumbs of bread, Parmigiano cheese, salt and oil) with
Rossese di Dolceacqua Doc wine, best with meat and game, and with Riviera Ligure di
Ponente Doc wine produced in the following
varieties: Pigato, Rossese, Vermentino and
Ormeasco.
In Dolceacqua, on the 20th of January is held
another special event, linked to the martyrdom
of Saint Sebastian. A laurel plant, after being
taken in procession, is planted in the earth in
front of the church from which the procession
has left. The believers take off one at a time the
twigs of the laurel that should represent the tree
to which Saint Sebastian was bound and martyrised.
One must not miss the neighbouring Sant'Agata D'Oneglia, where an excellent olive pâté is
produced. After turning inland from the coast, one finally reaches Triora, a land of witches
hunted by the Inquisition of the 16th century, and mountain summer pastures where goats
and cows graze and which produces goat tumette and brusso, a very good white goat
ricotta left in sealed wooden moulds for fermentation, stirred often and preserved under a
veil of extra virgin olive oil, rigorously Pdo. A truly diabolical recipe.
The "Cinque terre" fall sheer to the sea, but are
awash in wine
Five miles of coast that falls sheer to the sea and five villages that cling to rock spurs or
grouped in a bunch over very small creeks. This is the picture revealed by the Cinque
Terre, since 1997 a national park and territory protected by Unesco. Monterosso al Mare,
Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, these are the villages that are the
protagonists of this itinerary to be enjoyed
mainly on foot, but also by train or boat.
As an alternative one can use all three means.
On foot, the area of Cinque Terre, crossed by a
thick network of paths, can be covered from
one village to the other, along the coast or
through the upper area and towards the
Sanctuaries. Each path has its own
peculiarity: one is more suitable for
excursions, others for those who prefer cultural interests, some more difficult to negotiate
and others less. For those who prefer comfort, there is the Genoa-La Spezia railway line
that stops in every village of the coast. The boats that cross regularly between La Spezia,
Lerici, Portovenere, Levanto and Sestri Levante, touching all Cinque Terre, also represent a
valid alternative. Any means one should choose, one must not miss the famous via
dell'Amore (the road of Love), a long and suggestive route that runs along a sheer cliff above
the sea. The entire area appears as a group of man-made terraces dense with vineyards.
A curious and ancient custom is grape harvesting from the sea: the peasants-mariners
moored their boat under the vineyards and the baskets full of grapes were lowered into the
sea and transported to
the shore. This itinerary
can be enjoyed by
everyone, and not only by
sea-going, sailing or
scuba diving enthusiasts
- attracted by the deep
seabeds rich in fish and
by the bays and
charming beaches
between the rocks - but
also by the most
particular wine
connoisseurs who there
can taste some of the
most appreciated wines in the world, from the rare and vintage strong sweet wine Cinque
Terre Schiacchetrà Doc to the more common Cinque Terre Doc (dry white table wine).
The area not only produces grape products but also citrus fruit ones like limoncello, a
liquor made with the numerous lemons also used to joyfully decorate the village of
Monterosso during the lemon festival held on Whitsunday. The offer of accommodation is
vast and goes from the usual hotels to the Bed & Breakfast, farm holidays, hostel or local
house arrangements. It is also easy to find restaurants or refreshment-points that offer
tastings of local products. In this area, stuffed cakes with the strangest ingredients famous is the one with pesto - are a must that can't be missed together with the more
famous trofie, pasta made with wheat meal or milled chestnuts, again seasoned with pesto;
tagliatelle seasoned with mushrooms, cabbages and potatoes, beans, chick-peas and a
sprinkling of pest ; vegetable cakes prepared with borage and other spontaneous herbs,
with beets, artichokes, zucchini or potatoes and leeks and other different mixtures
according to family customs; there is also a rice cake which in Monterosso is enriched with
dry mushrooms.
Another important ingredient of Cinque Terre cuisine are anchovies, that are fished with
the lampara technique, and which are prepared like cutlets (stuffed and fried), and
whitebait croquettes. Between May and October, furthermore, in the sea in front of Cinque
Terre is held the seasonal surface fishing of sardines. On the hills of Cinque Terre the olive
trees abound, and for this reason also oil is one of the protagonists of the local table: salted
anchovies in oil of Monterosso are a true gastronomic delicacy together with other different
fish specialities
ACCOMODATION
GRAND HOTEL
A R E N Z A N O
–
G E N O V A
The enchanting neo-reinassance architecture, the elegance of the refined interiors, the
quality and careful excellent service, make Grand Hotel the ideal meeting point of
international customers.
It lays on Arenzano sea boardwalk, close the marina and just a few steps away from the
old town centre.
Style and atmosphere will make you spend an unforgottable stay.
In the 105 rooms and 5 suites available, guests of the Grand Hotel di Arenano will also find
the right balance between the elegance and comfort of a hotel with ancient traditions and
the necessary support that modern technology has to offer.
The furniture in all of the rooms is Italian made, studied for perfect integration with the
soft colours of the tapestry and carpet: air conditioning and heating can be controlled by
means of a special thermostat while satellite TV offers a wide range of programmes to
satisfy Italian as well as foreign clients: most of the rooms are fitted with WI-FI connections
and they all have an ISDN telephone line; special attention has been given to the
bathrooms with the green marble that contrasts with the white tiles and soft sponges.
From the large windows of our rooms guests can admire the greenery of the ancient botanic
park of Arenano, or the relaxing Ligure sea, whose contours are marked by the mountains
of the Apennines and lead down to the promontory of Portofino.
Accommodation suitable for a romantic weekend, for a comfortable business stay and for a
long holiday during a mild spring in Arenzano and a hot summer. The Suites, with a small
lounge and a double bedroom, for your most important guests and for your elegant
holiday. All furnished with the same style and with the same relaxing atmosphere. Single
bedrooms are also available together with French beds.
The bright and elegant restaurant "La Veranda", which is located next to swimming, offers
a rich gastronomy, based on local products mixed with fantasy and served with a fine
selection of the best Ligurian and national wines. "La Veranda" restaurant is famous for its
seafoods specialties which are served during the summer on the terrace facing the sea side
boardwalk.
Room type
Double single use
Double single use
Sea View
Max. (€)
258,00
258,00
Sea View Double
Room
Double Room
258,00
258,00
Rates are per room, per day, buffet breakfast and taxes included.
HOTEL PUNTA SAN MARTINO
A R E
G E N O V A
N
Z
A
N
O
–
Hotel Punta San Martino lays on a precipe just a stroll away from the beach in a quiet
and charming resort and provides a spectacular overlook on the Gulf of Genoa and the
Ligurian Riviera.
Surrended by a Mediterranean pinewood Punta San Martino is perfect for who loves
nature, rough rocks and the sea. Here you can enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday.
All rooms are air conditioned and equipped with minibar, Sat-Tv, direct-dial telephone and
safe.
Rooms with terrace or a small garden are available, too.
From all rooms you have a splendid panoramic view
on the gulf and the silence is only interrupted
by the rumours of the waves.
The restaurant "La Punta", with an unique and spectacular seaview, offers an enchanting
atmosphere where you can taste excellent typical Ligurian specialities which - in summer
time - are served at the border
of the swimming pool.
Room type
Double single use
Sea View
Double Room Sea
View
Triple Room Sea
View
Max. (€)
240,00
240,00
320,00
Rates are per room, per day, buffet breakfast and taxes included
Hotel Agnello D’Oro GENOVA
is an ideal choice for anyone wishing to have a pleasant stay in a quiet and charming
atmosphere in the heart of the historical centre.
We are located in Vico delle Monachette, just 100 m from Principe Railway Station and
from the airport terminal shuttle (volabus) and trade Fair bus stop and at walking distance
from landing piers and ferry terminal.
Our hotel is situated in the area of the best palaces, Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Ducale, just
400 m from the Aquarium and Porto Antico area (which hosts Città dei Bambini , Galata
Museum and the convention area Magazzini del Cotone).
Our hotel doesn’t overlook those who travel by motorbike and car :
We have a garage (locked and fee paying) where you can park your car, and you can also
find a lockable spaces with rolling shutters for bikers.
Our hotel has 20 modern and carefully furnished rooms : single rooms (with queen size
bed), double rooms, twin rooms, triple and family rooms.
Every room is different to satisfy the customers’ requirements.
- The rooms situated on the top floor are very characteristic with their balconies offering a
wonderful view on the harbour
- Triple and Family rooms : can be considered mini-apartments with two connecting
rooms and two en-suite bathrooms.
- Single room : are well equipped for business clients and conference attendees
Hotel Agnello D’Oro offers different and open public places for the client’s leisure time.
- A comfortable reading room available 24/24 h.
- - A panoramic terrace offers a wonderful view of the harbour and the historical
centre. A pleasant place to spend some hours in relaxing time and admiring the view.
- PARKING : For people arriving by car , we offer a limited number of parking places
where you can leave you car safely
- - BAR : open for our clients from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Breakfast is served in the spacious room situated on the same floor as the hall from 7 to
9.30 a.m.
The rich buffet is characterized by typical Ligurian products, such as “focaccia” and
“canestrelli”, biscuits. The breakfast service offers also a various kinds of sweets,
marmalades, cakes, juice, brioches.
Don’t miss, to start the day in the right way, cappuccino, tea, coffee, and chocolate.
SINGLE
Max € 110,00
DOUBLE
single use
DOUBLE
TRIPLE
FAMILY ROOM
( 4 people )
FAMILY ROOM
( up to 4 people )
Max €
Max €
Max €
Max € 150,00
Max € 200,00
100,00
120,00
130,00
• rates are per room, per night – breakfast included
•
Hotel Anthurium
The Hotel Anthurium is a prestigious reference point for businessmen, created in order to
satisfay the needs of businessmen, sales representatives, and those who are looking for
relaxation and privacy, for a distict type of clientele and lovers of high level standards.
Situated in the hearts of Liguria on the Aurelia, near the Marina degli Aregai port, exactly
in Santo Stefano al Mare, between the important cities of Imperia and sanremo, it is also a
starting point to visit the most characteristic sites in the region.
Reception: At the reception you 'll get a kind welcome from a high standard
professional team, always ready to satisfy every request of yours.
Parking: Our Hotel/Motel is equipped with a large cmplimentary parking.
Internet: The hotel offers its guests a free broadband Internet access.
Laundry : 24-hours access to laundry service.
Room service: In the intimacy and the discreet atmosphere of the warm rooms, you
can relax and enjoy our refined cuisine.
Bar: In the warm and well-lighted hall you can plan your business meetings, spend
serene and relaxed moments or drink a cocktail in pleasant company in the bar.
Shuttle service: Shuttle service is also available upon request.
Here the sea and the beaches dotted with towers and fortalices still preserve the perfume
and the old appeal of the small Ligurian fishing and seafaring villages.
Sojourning localities higly recommended to lovers of sea vacations, the town offer the
visitors also crners of remarkable artistic-historical interest.
At Marina degli Aregai, the well-equipped marina, the fans of pleasure boating can find a
comfortable reception
QUOTATION ON REQUEST
My Hotels La Spezia
In the heart of the charming Bay of Poets, My Hotels La Spezia overlooks the main narrow
and winding street of La Spezia, called via del Prione, where narrow streets link up and
where the "Tower Houses" overlook the small open spaces where the social life of the city
is conducted.
It is here that you arrive at a small area of raised ground called "Il Poggio" (the Hillock)
which overlooks the old village and on which My Hotels La Spezia soars in the
peacefulness of the hill. The hotel is a modern and stylish building which blends in
perfectly with the environment, under the watchful eyes of the old Castle of San Giorgio.
My Hotels La Spezia provides every type of comfort for its guests to ensure relax, comfort
and safety:
air conditioning, high speed internet connection, satellite tv, fridge bar and safety box are
in all 68 welcoming and well decorated rooms.
The hotel has:
-
multilingual staff at Reception
lift
laundry
breakfast room
toilets for the disabled
reserved parking spaces beside the hotel
fax service
car and bycycles rental service
In the centre of the urban village, My Hotels La Spezia and its staff will be delighted to
welcome you with courtesy and professionalism in a stylish setting where smiles and
politeness are normal occurences.
Traditions and flavours
My Hotels La Spezia will help you start your day with a fantastic sweet and savoury
breakfast buffet to be eaten in the welcoming breakfast room or, during the good season,
outdoors, at the foot of the Castle of San Giorgio.
Q U O T A T I O N
O N
R E Q U E S T
Welcome to the Best Western City Hotel
Let's immagine a day in Genoa for you and your family: the aquarium, the "kids city", a
tour of the port, a quick lunch of typical genovese focaccia...
Let's immagine a day at work in an office based in Genoa: meetings, interviews, important
decisions...
Let's immagine a day filled with culture in the heart of the largest old city centre in Europe:
museums in Via Garibaldi, the San Lorenzo Cathedral, the galleries and exhibits at
Palazzo Ducale...
There are many ways for you to spend your time in our city; there is only one way for us at
the City Hotel Genoa to welcome you: to make you feel at home.
For this reason we have furnished the rooms of the City Hotel with your needs in mind: you
will be able to make a hot drink using the kettle, send e-mails to your friend through our
WI-FI connection, see a pay for view film on the TV or simply relaz on one of our beds that
come complete with comfortable mattress and to two anti-allergy cushions of diverse
softness. All our rooms also offer an electronic safe, trouser press, mini bar, hairdryer and
two telephones.
For an unforgettable stay at the City Hotel in Genoa we have three suites complete with
lounge that open on to terrace with an unmissable view of the largest old city centre in
Europe
We hope to satisfy your appetite and your desire to have an unforgettable culinary
experience. Since 1997, the chef Alberto with Emanuele and Katia have been preparing the
typical dishes of Liguria in the kitchen, using only prime ingredients chosen daily from the
Genoese markets. Simona, Sara, Eleonora, Gabriela and Francesca will serve you these
culinary delights, accompained with the best wines and oils of our country! We only use
products of whose origins we are certain and when possible we assure their origins
personally or by suppliers that think as we do, and as you do.....
Enjoy the atmosphere of the medieval rooms. If The Ruins interest you, ask information.
And remember that....they bring good luck.......
QUOTATION ON REQUEST
Hotel Al Saraceno
Recently renewed, the new Hotel Al Saraceno (formerly known as “Ambassador”) in Alassio
is a very central but quiet hotel close to the promenade and wonderful beaches. The hotel
offers all year round comfort and hospitality.
The hotel offers multi-purpose room with wide screen TV, Garage, arranged beach and bar
lounge.
Alassio's bay is typical for sandy and shallow beaches without strong current.
Our air-conditioned restaurant is very elegant and ideal for weddings, ceremonies and
events.
The hotel has 47 rooms with all comforts: bathroom (bath or shower) air conditioner,
minibar, telephone, sat-TV, balcony and safe.
A seaside resort rich in history and old legends, Alassio offers the charming picture of
green hills sloping down and reflecting into the blue sea. The golden beach and the
amazing contour of the Gallinara Island remain, as it was for the English towards the end
of 1800, the main attractions for tourists.
Alassio offers lively night life all year round with many events. It is a modern and romantic
city and offers possibilities of holiday, amusements and sport.
Alassio, which has just celebrated ist 1000th anniversary, has its origin in the legend of
Adelasia (daughter of Emperor Otto I) who, together with Aleramo, found refuge in the
territory of modern Alassio. Alassio is the "Muretto": the idea of the "Muretto" was
conceived in the 50s. The "Muretto" has become an important walk for the beauty contest
Miss Muretto and for St. Valentine's day.
The local cuisine offers fragrances and tastes from the Ligurian sea as well as from its hills.
A typically Mediterranean cuisine is tied to what is offered by nature: olives, herbs, pine
nuts, fish, vegetables.
The Ligurian wines are renowned and appreciated all over Europe.
A few minutes from Alassio you can visit Albenga with its ancient town, Toirano with its
caves, the characteristic villages (Zuccarello, Castelvecchio) and the water park "Le
Caravelle" in Ceriale.
Rates 2008:
Lowest
Season
Low
Season
Medium
Season
High
Season
Very
High
Season
06/01 19/03
28/09 23/12
25/03 23/04
04/05 30/05
14/09 27/09
21/12/07 05/01
24/04 03/05
31/05 12/06
20/03 24/03
13/06 31/07
24/08 13/09
01/08 23/08
€ 56.00
€ 71.00
€ 79.00
€ 89.00
€ 97.00
Daily prices, per person, on half board basis, services and
taxes included. Beach service not included.