Namrata BhawnaniLiguria in north-west Italy is known as the ‘Italian Riviera’ and boasts of the most beaches to be awarded a Blue Flag status in Italy for the eighth year running. Twenty-five stunning sandy beaches have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag designation – so make the most of these pristine beaches as summer finally is in sight! Green travel at its best.
Paraggi, Genova Province
Paraggi, a few minutes drive along the coast from the swish Portofino, is a little bay framed by lush green hills. At the only sandy beach near Portofino, find corals and starfish, hike and dive and soak in the glorious sun.
Where: Situated on the Riviera di Levante on the Portofino promontory about 33 kms from Genoa.
Finale Ligure, Savona Province
Finale Ligure in the west is Liguria’s longest beach and very popular in the summer. Finale Ligure is actually made up of three small villages: Finalmarina, Finalpia, and Finalborgo. For a real adventure, try rock climbing here in a succession of valleys in the hills behind Finale Ligure.
Getting there: Half an hour distance from Savona
Framura, La Spezia Province
The Framura coast is a succession of small beaches and rocks dropping from the cliffs to the sea. The atmospheric little town Framura spreads downhill towards the sea. It’s actually made up of five quaint villages. Perfect for a swim, snorkel and sun!
Getting there: Biking here on the Levanto-Bonassola-Framura bicycle path is special.
Varigotti, Savona Province
The pretty little village of Varigotti has charming multi-hued fishermen’s cottages. Crystal clear water, a tranquil vibe, fishing boats – what’s not to love?
Getting there: One and a half hours by train from Genoa
Noli Baia, Savona Province
Noli is delightful for its setting – sandy beaches, castle and the medieval towers that dominate the historic centre. The mix of sandy and pebbly beach features cute fishing boats.
Getting there: Genoa to Noli by train takes an hour and 15 minutes
Loano, Savona Province
Loano’s attractions include gorgeous beaches, tourist port and historical town centre. The beach, stretching for two km, has sand mixed with gravel and is rich in marine life. In autumn and spring, you can often spot dolphins frolicking in the sea.
Getting there: Genoa to Loano by train takes 1 hour and 20 mins approximately
Bordighera, Imperia Province
Bordighera’s quaint charm lies in its narrow streets, intertwined alleyways and its coastline ascends sharply to mountainous areas. A magical place to lose yourself in!
Getting there: Genoa to Bordighera takes two and a half hours by train
Levanto, La Spezia Province
The seaside resort is a short distance west of the famous Cinque du Terre. The long and sandy beach of Levanto is ideal for surfers and is home to some of the biggest waves in Italy.
Getting there: Levanto is an easy train ride from Cinque Terre villages
Ceriale, Savona Province
Ceriale is the latest entrant to the elite club of blue flag beaches. The town is situated exactly halfway between Genoa and the French border. This mostly sandy beach is extremely well suited for divers. The golden beach with its shallow waters allows for much frolicking in the sea – swimming, sailing, surfing and windsurfing.
Getting there: Genoa to Ceriale takes about an hour to an hour and a half by train
Spotorno, Savona Province
Spotorno is located on the Western Riviera between Punta del Maiolo and Punta del Vescovado, a mere 13 km from Savona. Gardens and small squares along the promenade lead to the historic village of Spotorno. With its hilly backdrop this makes for a perfect spot for R&R.
Getting there: Train from Genova to Spotorno takes a little over an hour
Baia Blu Beach, La Spezia Province
(See feature image) This stunner is located in a sheltered bay to the South of Lerici in an area known as the “Gulf of Poets”. The sand and pebble beach is surrounded by verdant hills – makes for a perfect selfie moment!
Getting there: Baia Blu beach is enclosed between Punta Santa Teresa and Punta Galera in the beautiful bay of Baia Blu
