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 On the crest of the waves |
Via Dante Rapallo Genoa 16035 Italy +39 185 23 1017 http://www.motonauticaligure.it/ |
This company is at the mouth of the river Boate, near to the entrance to the tourist port of Rapallo, and hires out motor boats with or without a license. From rubber dinghies to 270 horsepower cabin cruisers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Swimming pool and more |
Via Adamoli Genoa 16141 Italy http://www.comune.genova.it |
Coming from the city center and taking the fast road to the left shore of the Torrente Bisagno, one can't help being struck by the great, black profile of the covered swimming pool of Sciorba. Similar to a hangar, this transforms into an open air pool, by taking off the motorized cover, which is an excellent solution to the Genoan climate. It only takes a few minutes to take the cover off and so it can always be a last minute decision depending on the weather. This is one of the best municipal, sports centers, planned by the architect Zoppini in 1992, it has four pools, two of which are covered and an Olympic pool with a gallery for 600 people. During the summer season the area of Sciorba becomes 'another beach' for the city, and is especially favored by people who don't have the time to go to the sea and can take advantage of the large parking facilities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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To the Righi |
Giro del Vento Parco Urbano dei Forti Genoa, Genoa Italy +39 (0)10 57 6791 (Tourist Information) |
This tour is not particularly demanding and passes through the so-called Parco Urbano dei Forti di Genova, taking in the Forti Due Fratelli, Forte Puin and il Forte Sperone. In an hour and a half you reach the 'Righi' which at 300m high gives a magnificent view of Genoa and its port; you may want to take advantage of the Zecca-Righi cablecar and indulge in a pleasant return trip down to the city centre. Departure is from Bolzaneto, Giro del Vento (bus 7). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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To Vittoria |
Busalla Genoa Italy |
You can walk from the village of Busalla(around 25km from Genoa) to Vittoria in less than two hours. It is an easy trip with a difference in height of only 200m and leading to the small sanctuary in Vittoria (a Sunday destination for many of the young locals of Genoa). The trip begins at Piazza Garibaldi and is marked by a solid yellow circle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Monte Antola |
Torriglia Genoa Italy |
It takes two good hours to get to Monte Antola which with its 1597 metres, is an appennine peak with a gap of around 600m. From the top of the Mount, where there is a refuge open year round, there is a remarkable view to the north over Val Borbera and to the south over Genoa. The tour begins at the bus stop on Strada Principale 15 at the fork in the road heading for Caprile (take the SS45 from Genoa heading for Piacenza up to Torrriglia) and is marked by a yellow triangle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefano Genova |
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Monte Penello |
Behind Pegli and Pra Case Duchi area Genoa, Genoa Italy +39 (0)10 57 6791 (Tourist Information) |
Monte Penello (990m above sea level) behind Pegli and Pra, arises from a grassy plain and extends towards the sea offering a lovely view of the area to the west of Genoa of the port and the airport. The proposed journey starts at a height of 250m in the Case Duchi area, easily reached from Via Taggia and Via Stassano, and lasts for around three hours. The trip begins in Case Duchi and is marked by a red rhombus and a solid red circle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Punta Martin |
Vicino A Colla Lencisa Genoa, Genoa Italy |
Punta Martin with its 1001m is a mountain with a daring profile which can be reached by the rocky ridge to the south-west whilst it becomes more accessible if you leave from Colla Lencisa (569m) and can be reached by going back up Val Varenna from Genoa Pegli. It is a panoramic trip with a lovely view of the western riviera but can be tiring, as you cover around 400m during a two hour trip. The only problem is the fog that settles quite frequently in the area and which can make orientation difficult. It starts from Lencisa and is marked by a filled red triangle and two blue filled circles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gerti gras |
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A balcony over Sestri Levante |
Sestri Levante Genoa Italy |
One of the great classics with a magnificent view of the gulf os Silence in Sestri Levanti. To reach Punta Manara, (166m above sea level) there are two alternative tours: via Casa Mendrella, a trip lasting an hour and a quarter and is marked by two red squares or via the Capelletta della Sagra Famiglia, a trip that takes the same amount of time and is marked by two red circles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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For divers from all over Europe |
Near Gulf of Tigullio Genoa, Genoa Italy |
After years of debate, the Marine Reserve was added to the Regional Park of Monte di Portofinio, which represents a fundamental stage in the protection of the marine environment in the area. The underwater activity in the Marine Park is now strictly regulated and limited to diving in certain. Do not miss out on a visit to Cristo Degli Abissi in the San Fruttuoso bay, an easy and enchanting place to dive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: macubu |
 Photo: Giuseppe De Marte |
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Immerse yourself in nature |
Via Lago Figoi, 15 Genoa 16161 Italy |
Part of a sports centre, surrounded by greenery, the Borzoli swimming pool is 33 metres and is covered over. There are large windows so that swimmers can enjoy a view of the surrounding parkland and this creates a light atmosphere, reminiscent of similar, north European structures. It is a shame that the changing rooms are not quite up to standard and there are not many parking spaces here. Open on Sunday mornings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Queen of Tigullio |
Via della Vittoria Genoa 16038 Italy |
Set on perhaps the most famous part of the Ligurian coast, the little town of Portofino (32km) can be reached by boat from Camogli (approx. 20 mins.) or from above, via a two hour walk along the breathtaking promontary. Without doubt, one of the best loved destinations for foreign tourists, it is a fishing village, so picturesque as to seem unreal, with its famous little square surrounded by different coloured houses, and its wonderful little port. Despite having an elegant international flavour, with its prestigious boutiques and fine restaurants, this side of the town co-exists in utter harmony with the skills of the old axe-makers, and the craftsmen who excell at pillow lace and macramè. The famous Brown castle is also worth a visit, built right on the sea on the remains of the old Fort of St. George. It stands in a beautiful garden, from which there are spectacular views. From the town of Portofino several routes lead off into the winding undergrowth of the promontory, where luxury villas lie hidden in the vegetation. The lighthouse at the very tip of the promontory can be reached in an easy 15 minute walk, while at the top of the hill are the little settlements of Portofino Vetta (34km) and Ruta. The nature reserve is full of mediterranean flora, in a vast spectrum of colour which seems to have been stolen from the depths of the sea. The renowned path, which leads unexpectedly to the bay of San Fruttuoso di Camogli is a route overflowing with panoramic viewpoints and the scent of untouched nature. There is a fairly easy walk (approx. 2h 30 mins), through the pine trees and the olive groves, which yields spectacular views of the coast. Having passed the charming Paraggi bay, where the sea refelcts the luxuriant green of the trees, the path arrives at the village of s. Margherita Ligure (37km). The route can be followed by bus or boat (in the summer). Along the panoramic route which links the two settlements, lies the North East Hideout, one of the most famous places in Italy, especially in the 'roaring' 60's and 70's, but still well-frequented by both the genovese and tourists. Santa is a well-known bathing resort, with elegant hotels and shops, as well as a lively night life, assured by the many fashionable locals. The fascinating Villa Durazzo Centurione is also worth a visit: it is an aristocratic residence dating from the end of the sixteenth century, now belonging to the local council which rents it out for wedding receptions. Near S. Margherita is Rapallo (45 km), characterised by its old fortress on the seafront, at the base of the revered Montallegro sanctuary, which can be reached by an attractive cablecar ride. Despite undergoing a massive period of urban growth, the town has retained its exquisite ligurian traits in the part nearest the sea, with colourful houses, architectural traces of the past (including the roman bridge said to have been made for Hannibal), and the legant villas dating from the end of the nineteenth century when Rapallo was already known as one of the most popular tourist resorts. The Cooperativa Battellieri del Porto Di Genova organises excursions to San Fruttuoso, Portofino, Cinque Terre and Portovenere. +39 10 26 5712 departing from the Acquarium. La Golfo Paradiso di Camogli: daily departures from Camogli for San Fruttuoso and Punta Chiappa. Also departures from Porto Antico for Portofino, San Fruttuoso and Camogli. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefania Amodeo  |
 Photo: Stefano Genova |
 Photo: Stefano Genova |
 Photo: Hans Kremers |
 Photo: giorgino |
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The west is full of historical traces |
Via Aurelia Genoa, Savona 17026 Italy |
This is a highly interesting itinerary from both an artistic point of view and because of the landscape. It is particularly recommended in winter months, when the western riviera enjoys exceptionally mild weather (minimum rainfall and comfortable temperatures). Noli (58km), the former marine republic, retains important traces of its past (the city walls, its castle, the romantic church of S Panagorio); it is one of the better preserved tourist destinations in the region. Varigotti (63 km) is recognised by its magnificent stretch of limestone cliffs which drop dramatically to the sea (Malpasso), and by the brightly coloured mediterranean houses, with roof-terraces, built directly on the shore. Finalborgo (70km), once the seat of the Marquis Del Carretto, then a Spanish holding, is a fascinating town; entirely enclosed by city walls, it retains its interesting architectural weave intact. Among the splendid buildings which can be visited are the church of S. Biagio and several fifteenth cetury, perfectly preserved houses. The popular antique market takes place on the first Sa and Su of every month. Continuing along the Via Aurelia, the itinerary leads next to Borgio, a small bathing resort near which lies the beautiful Valdemino grotto. Borgio belongs to the district of Verezzi (77km), an old Saracen town with typical houses and covered streets, known for its prestigious international drama festival each summer. An excursion to the Toirano caves (+11km) is recommended. Albenga (96km) stands on the largest Ligurian plain, at the mouth of the river Centa. It retains its compact medieval structure, which was inspired by the roman nuclear settlement, with its houses and towers piled almost on top of each other. The Naval Mueum deserves a mention, with its remains of ships dating from the first century A.D., as does St Michael's Cathedral, of paleo-christian origin and the splendid baptistery. Alassio (km 106), a famous bathing resort, boasts the largest beach of the western riviera, which spreads from the Capo di Santa Croce to Capo Mele. The historic church of St. Ambrose, rebuilt in the Renaissance, is worth a visit. Hemingway spent long periods of time at Alassio, and even gave his parrot to the Bar Berrino (it died a few years ago). The bar's owner has been instrumental in making the 'muretto' famous throughout the world: it is a little wall around the public gardens, decorated by the signatures of famous artists and actors etched in clay. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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In the Fieschi area |
Via Brigate Partigiane Sestri Levante Genoa, Genoa 16039 Italy |
55km from Genoa, this picturesque fishing village soon became a well-known tourist destination, discovered and appreciated by many famous visitors who unlocked the secret of its unique character. The heart of the town was built facing the coast, on a green island today connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. The sea spreads to each side of this peninsula, on which stands the real historic centre of the town; to the east is the Bay of Silence, while to the west lies the Bay of Fables, named by Hans Christian Anderson, in whose honour a prize is awarded each year for the best fable. Sestri Levante's marine tradition is linked to the memory of the fleets of fishermen and sailors who, on board their "leudi" left here for the coast of Sardinia, having promised the Virgin, Protectress of Safe Journeys that they would return before the 15th August. The "leudo" was a robust transport vessel, 15m long and 4m wide, able to transport about 10 gallons of wine and 150 quitals (old weight measure) of Sardinian cheese. It was a sure vessel in any sea, with a leaning mast, and was manned by a team of four: the captain and three sailors who each had sleeping quaters. Travelling in the direction of Genoa, having passed the popular Cavi bathing area, you reach Lavagna (km 49), a long-established town linked to the Fieschi family which endowed it with with fame and wealth, until it was taken over by the neighboring Chiavari in the 14th century. It has a modern tourist port, one of the largest in the mediterranean, as well as important medieval buildings in its historic centre, and the splendid College of St Stephen dating from 1653. As a reminder of its illustrious past, since 1951 Lavagna has celebrated the 'Torta dei Fieschi' on the 14th August. This is a feast in Medieval dress, with a grand court, an equestian tournament and the distribution of a huge cake, as occurred in 1230, on the occasion of the wedding between the Count Opizzo Fieschi and the Sienese Countess Bianca dei Bianci. Before you reach Chiavari, you are advised to pause at S. Salvatore di Cogorno, the most important, monumental Romano-Gothic building of the east riviera, nestling between the woods and the olive groves. This little town, huddled around a typical Liguran pebbled sacrestry, belonged to the aristocratic Fieschi family, which decided the fate of its vast holdings from here. Opposite the 17th century parish church and the Palazzo Fieschi, notable for its black and white facade, stands S. Salvatore's basilica, commissioned between 1245 and 1252 by Pope Innocent IV Fieschi, and his nephew Ottobono (who became Pope Adrian V). The two-coloured facade is splendid, with a central stained-glass rose window, and the imposing tower recalls those of several genovese churches (like the Chiesa di S Giovanni di Pré). Having crossed the river Entella, you reach Chiavari (47km), an important city, long contested by the Fieschi family and the comune of Genoa. Having finally triumphed, Genoa council named it the main centre of the Tigullio area, which today remains the headquarters for various banking and cultural institutions, several times nominated to become Liguria's fifth official province. It is known above all for its lace and wood craftwork, but also boasts historcal traditions linked to its medieval character which its centre has maintained: the streets with 'man-size' arcades; the splendid Palazzo Rocca with its garden restaurant, the 12th century castle and the beautiful beach make it an ideal destination for all seasons. Finally, via a panoramic road, you reach Zoagli (40km), a town on the seafront, with attractive walks along the shore. It is a historic producer of velvet and silk, using methods imported from the east many centuries ago. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: michele vincenzi |
 Photo: -MaTTe- |
 Photo: Mompl Aka Markuso |
 Wellbeing professionals |
Via Milite Ignoto, 13 Genoa 16012 Italy +39 10 964 2608 |
This is a modern gym of 1,000 square metres which includes two squash courts, a turkish bath, spinning bikes, cardio-fitness machines, technogym and qualified instructors who teach aerobics and martial arts classes as well as personal trainers who will take you in hand and listen to your needs and help you reach your aims. There is also a bar here and a terrace where you can regain your energy after all that exercise! Review © 2007, Wcities |