Liguria in Pictures

Ingrid is one of our greatest Facebook fans. Every year she visits Italy at least once, and she is always kind enough to share her beautiful photos with us on our ItalyMammaMia group.

From Liguria (click for our guide) to Tuscany, and lot's of other places in-between Ingrid really has explored a great deal of Italy.

Enjoy this visual journey through a one of Ingrid's favorite corners of Italy - the coast of Liguria.

There is a place on the Ligurian coast that has always held a special place in my and Maria's hearts. Ingrid too loves this part of the coast, and the photo above was taken there. To find out more on where this secret corner of the Ligurian coast is click here.

Varigotti

About midway along the Italian Riviera, a little past Savona (view map), you'll find Varigotti, a unique little village that exudes an authentic Italian charm - it is sure to capture your heart.

What sets Varigotti apart is its mesmerizing beach, where golden cottages nestle along the fringes and the crystal-clear waters gently kiss the sands. The backdrop of rugged cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation adds to the enchantment, creating a perfect picture-postcard setting.

The journey down the narrow lanes that lead to the beach is always a pleasure. These charming alleys, known as "caruggi," beckon you with their old-world charm and promise of hidden wonders. The walls, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, artworks, and fragrant jasmine, create a tapestry of colors and scents that transport you to a place of pure serenity.

Each turn reveals a new surprise—a glimpse of the shimmering sea, a quaint shop selling local crafts, or a small trattoria serving up delectable Ligurian delicacies and tempting you in with the aromas of freshly backed bread and pesto sauces.

These lanes, with their weathered facades and ancient archways, exude an undeniable sense of history, inviting you to pause and imagine the stories they could tell.

In Varigotti, the journey to the beach is as enchanting as the destination itself.

Exploring the village itself, you'll discover the remnants of a medieval past, from the ancient Saracen tower overlooking the sea to the charming church of San Lorenzo. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the idyllic coastal views.

Varigotti's allure extends beyond its beach. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on scenic trails that lead to panoramic vistas, offering glimpses of the captivating Ligurian landscape. Whether basking in the sun, exploring the village's rich history, or embracing nature's wonders, Varigotti invites you to experience the magic of Liguria in all its splendor.

Varigotti and the Baia dei Saraceni are on my list of the top four beaches in Liguria (view the complete list here). The walk down to the beach takes you through these meandering lanes I mentioned earlier. I love it!

Varigotti Beach

Once through the narrow lanes this is the beach you end up on. A lovely place to spend a summers day.

Ingrid's Liguria in pictures really is a window on this lovely part of Italy. and the flower boxes and shutters are just so Italian. For a list of the fourteen most typical Italian reminders, visit Reminders of Italy.

Palm trees and tranquil blue seas  - photos taken on the western part of the Ligurian coast near San Remo.  

San Remo itself is renowned for its year-round mild climate, earning it the title of "City of Flowers." Immerse yourself in the scents and colors of its renowned flower market, where vibrant blooms intoxicate the senses. Stroll along the palm-lined streets, savoring the coastal breeze and admiring the elegant Belle Époque architecture that graces the town.

San Remo is also synonymous with music. Each year, it hosts the renowned San Remo Festival, a celebration of Italian music that has launched the careers of many iconic artists. Explore the town's vibrant cultural scene, from art galleries to theaters, and immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage that permeates every corner.

And of course, we cannot forget the allure of the sea. San Remo boasts beautiful beaches where you can bask in the Mediterranean sun or take a refreshing dip in the azure waters. The coastal promenade offers panoramic views, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking sunsets.

There is a superb way to explore this coast to which we shared here.

Need a map of Liguria showing where the beaches and towns photographed above are? Click here.