The wonders of the mount of Portofino

By Filippo D'Antuono Apennine hikes, independent tour guide in Italy

Portofino is a top class jet-set destination. But, of course, we will not be there for that reason. Or, if you like to have a glance also on this aspect, why not: luxury boutiques and expensive bars. I will patiently wait for you. But, Portofino is not only that.

It is one of the ancient villages along the rugged Ligurian coast; if you look at it from the see, you can still catch the beauty of the row of tall houses, at the bottom of the deep bay.

But, for us, Portofino is  mainly the name of the mountain, with all its beauties. Mount of Portofino is a block of rocks protruding into the Ligurian sea, delimited, west and east, by two ample gulfs.

Camogli is a spectacular little town, sited at its west side; Santa Margherita lays at its east side. The railroad tunnel passes under the mountain, connecting the two towns. A road goes from Santa Margherita to Portofino, along the coast; another one connects Camogli with some hamlets; a third road winds up to the pass of Ruta, descending on the other side. Then, a well maintained trail network will allow us to set up your personalised experience.

But, first of all, let’s mention the star of the place: the San Fruttuoso Abbey, isolated into a bay, reachable by foot or by boat. It is a famous place, so it can be really overcrowded; but worth to visit, either by a pure hike, of different intensity (that will depend on your choice !), or combining hiking, with a boat return, or vice-versa. So, what a better occasion to come, maybe a bit out of season ?

For the rest, our hikes can combine olive groves, pine and Mediterranean oak forests, Mediterranean bush, ancient settlements, and be, sure, dramatic views from high above the sea, that will never miss.

And, why not: if you stay longer in the area and like to explore the surroundings, let’s taste the renowned cheese focaccia of Recco, or explore the archaic remains of the pastoral life in the mountains crowning the inland side of these places.

 
 


 

About Filippo D’Antuono Apennine hikes, professional tour guide in ItalyProfile image of tour guide Filippo D
Hi everybody, here is Filippo. Wanting to walk, hike, sightsee, enjoy nature and be connected to the environment around you ? I may be your guide in the Cinque Terre, Ligurian east coast and the northern Apennine range, in Italy. Please, find at the end my professional qualifications. My work places are a diverse area, but with a common past background. From the Mediterranean sea coast to almost Alpine environments; from overcrowded tourist spots, to almost neglected places full of emot
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