Territory & Activities
A gulf of experiences
Spotorno
Beaches, History and Nature
Nestled in the bay between Capo Maiolo and Punta del Vescovado, Spotorno is the ideal destination if you desire a seaside holiday of taste, discovery, and relaxation.
It is one of Liguria’s most popular seaside resorts, awarded the Blue, Green and Lilac Flag for environmental quality, accessibility, and the inclusivity of its facilities.
It welcomes you with a sandy coastline of over two kilometers, kissed by clear waters and enhanced by the view of the iconic heart-shaped Bergeggi island.
In the historic center you can explore the 17th-century oratories of the Church of SS. Annunziata, visit the Villa La Carlina Art Gallery with its 20th-century works, or search for the five ancient sundials among alleys, arches, and small squares.
Spotorno also invites you to explore the surrounding hills: panoramic paths open onto the gulf and lead you to the historic core of Borgo del Monte, with its characteristic painted doors, and the remains of the ancient castle.
Here the landscape becomes intimate, immersed in the scents of the Mediterranean scrub: lavender, thyme, rosemary, and myrtle.
It is no wonder that, over time, Spotorno has won over artists and writers such as D.H. Lawrence and the poet Camillo Sbarbaro, who described it as a “Landscape of the soul, a sky that to look at is to drink.”
Spotorno has all the ingredients for a perfect stay: a mild climate all year round, well-equipped beaches in a unique natural setting, and a lively center rich in history, art, authentic flavors, and events.
The Golfo dell’Isola district includes this area, and thanks to its central position, it is the ideal starting point for visiting it. Just minutes away, Bergeggi awaits with its marine protected area, as does the enchanting Noli, a perfectly preserved medieval village that was the fifth Maritime Republic.
Here, between sea, history, and nature, the holiday you deserve awaits you.
Discover sports and recreational activities
Staying at Villa Imperiale, you will have the opportunity to try numerous outdoor activities, from hiking or cycling excursions to diving courses and kayak outings, to experience the best of the territory.
Hillside Activities
Hiking
If you love walking in beauty, here you will find paths that speak to the heart. The Golfo dell’Isola territory offers a wide variety of hiking trails immersed in nature, rich in history, and suitable for every level.
One of the most evocative routes is the Dante’s Walk (Passeggiata Dantesca) on a well-marked path starting from Noli, which leads to the discovery of places like the Grotta dei Falsari, the Torre delle Streghe, and the Bric dei Corvi. It is even said that Dante, so fascinated by this path and its views, set some passages of his Purgatorio here.
If you are more experienced, the loop trail that leads from Spotorno to Monte Mao offers a spectacular view of the Golfo dell’Isola, accompanied by the intense scents of the Mediterranean scrub.
It is also possible to take the enchanting tour of the Golfo dell’Isola along the ancient Roman road that connects Bergeggi to Spotorno, uniting nature and history.
Also from Spotorno, you can climb up to the Manie plateau, a unique territory from a geological and naturalistic point of view, marked by karst phenomena and atmospheric caves inhabited by man since prehistoric times. Here you can admire rare and exclusive plant species, such as the Campanula of Savona, the Tyrrhenian cornflower, and the Finale dandelion.
Please contact the reception at Villa Imperiale to discover the routes best suited for you, receive maps, or information on guides and organized excursions.
Biking
The mountains behind the Golfo dell’Isola are a true playground for cycling enthusiasts. Here everyone can find the route suited to their needs and abilities: the beginner as well as the competitor, the fan of long excursions as well as the lover of single tracks, the biker looking for technical routes as well as the most daring downhiller.
Ride on the Manie plateau, the San Bernardino plateau, Caprazoppa, and Pian Marino—trails capable of offering unique panoramas
between the Mediterranean scrub and the sea standing out on the horizon.
Villa Imperiale provides spaces for bicycle storage.
Ask at reception for any type of information regarding itineraries, guides, and tours: our staff will be happy to advise you on how best to enjoy your experience in nature.
Sea Activities
Diving
Dive into the blue and explore the extraordinary seabeds of the Golfo dell’Isola, a unique natural treasure.
The area around Bergeggi island is a Marine Protected Area and preserves one of the richest and most fascinating ecosystems in Liguria.
Despite its proximity to the coast, the island offers unforgettable dives that will leave you breathless.
The island’s wall drops vertically to a depth of 7-8 meters, crossed by crevices that offer refuge to anemones, small crustaceans, and gastropods. In the depths, sea bream, dentex, conger eels, octopuses, moray eels, and coralligenous seabeds await you. And if luck is on your side, you might even catch the eye of a grouper.
An underwater experience that will win you over, dive after dive.
NEREO SUB – SPOTORNO
nereosub@gmail.com – Tel. 335 5493097
www.nereosub.com
ASD OLIMPIA SUB – SPOTORNO
info@olimpiasub.com – Tel. 019 746286
ASD Associazione Nautica Spotornese
info@ans-spotorno.it
www.ans-spotorno.it
kayaking & snorkeling
Set off from the beach and let yourself be guided toward adventure. Kayaking gives you a unique perspective on the gulf, allowing you to discover corners inaccessible from land and explore the natural reserve of Bergeggi island.
Paddle under the imposing dolomite cliffs of Punta del Maiolo or be surprised by the Bergeggi sea cave and its ancient geological formations.
Guided excursions are suitable for everyone: expert guides accompany you safely, sharing stories and insights into local nature that make the experience even more engaging. The kayaks used are “sit-on-top” models, easy and comfortable. All necessary equipment is provided on-site. An authentic and sustainable way to experience the sea and create unforgettable memories.
Duration: approx. 3h. Reservation is required
IL GOLFO OUTDOOR – SPOTORNO
ilgolfooutdoor@guidedelgolfo.it
Tel. +39 344 4677670
www.guidedelgolfo.com
ASS. PROLOCO BERGEGGI APS – BERGEGGI
Online reservations
www.prolocobergeggi.it
Do you desire even more adventure and excitement?
The beauties of the Golfo dell’Isola district, of which Spotorno is a part, await you
