Spring is coming, yet the chilly winter air is still there. It is just the perfect time to enjoy hiking: fresh air to breathe, warm sun that seems to embrace you… and no sweating!
For those who love trekking, it is time to prepare your rucksacks and to warm up your feet!
In addition to that, Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi is located in a strategic position, both for the incredible views from its windows and the proximity of the hiking trails.
Are you ready to plunge into the Ligurian nature?
This time we are departing from the hotel and are going towards Santa Margherita Ligure, crossing the lush Natural Portofino Park.
Get ready for jaw dropping views.
THE PATH
The path is classified as a medium difficulty trail, but the beaty of the place will take your tiredness away.
Surrounded by the sea and the mountains, the trail winds between the olive groves, woods and mountain tracks hanging over the sea. You can finally reconnect with the nature and find your inner self.
Time has preserved this amazing ecosystem, far from chaos and cement: a real paradise to discover.
Departing from the Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi you have to take the road along the tiny stream Gentile. The path unwinds between the olive groves leading you towards the Church in San Rocco.
You can stop here to admire the incredible view on Golfo Paradiso.
On the right side of the church the path goes down, in between the houses and through the woods.
At first it is a flat path, but then it unwinds, getting increasingly steeper.
It is very important to be careful when choosing junctions: follow the indication towards Sella Toca (all the trails are clearly indicated with poles and red geometric figures, different for every destination).
Once you get to Sella Toca, you find yourself at a crossroads: follow the path towards Pietre Strette: it will take you to the San Fruttuoso bay, where you can admire an evocative abbey, right at the foot of the mountain and right by the sea. You can get some rest there, while enjoying the rare beauty of this timeless pearl.
After a little rest you can now resume your journey.
The path is quite steep right from the beginning. It winds between panoramic views and leads us to Base 0, a military base during World War II.
From here the path continues towards Portofino, gradually becoming flat while passing through the woods. You will soon reach Vessinaro and then a stairway will take you straight to the harbour in Portofino.
A lovely promenade on the seafront allows you to reach Santa Margherita from Portofino, passing through Paraggi bay. On the way you can stop by to rest and enjoy an aperitif while watching the sun go down.
The itinerary will surely tire your legs, but will fill your eyes and soul with great beauty.
RETURNING TO THE HOTEL CENOBIO
We suggest to come back from Santa Margherita to Camogli by train: there are many options and the journey only lasts a couple of minutes.
In alternative we may suggest a ferry boat on the way back: from Santa Margherita’s harbour to Camogli’s.
(Credits: the featured photo is by Maria Grazia Schiapparelli)