ZUCCARELLO

Founded in 1248 by the Marquises of Clavesana as a defensive outpost along the historic Via del Sale (Salt Road), Zuccarello later became the capital of the small Marquisate of Del Carretto.
The heart of the village consists of a single main cobbled street, lined with arcaded porticoes supported by varied arches and pillars. In the past, ancient shops displayed their goods through small windows beside the entrance doors.

Passing through Porta Sottana, you enter the village, which still preserves its original layout, with well‑maintained medieval walls, towers, and gateways. Particularly evocative is the so‑called Roman bridge (actually medieval, as suggested by its humpback architecture).

Zuccarello also has a distinctly romantic aura, closely linked to the story of Ilaria Del Carretto, who was born here and grew up in the halls of the Castle of Zuccarello (now reduced to ruins). She later married Paolo Giunigi, Lord of Lucca, where she moved and tragically died in childbirth at a young age. Today, Ilaria is remembered through the famous sculpture by Jacopo Della Quercia in the Cathedral of Lucca.

TOIRANO CAVES

The Toirano Caves, located on the hills above the village of Toirano in the province of Savona, are among the most impressive karst cave systems in Italy. Discovered starting in 1950, they preserve unique prehistoric evidence, such as the Bàsura Cave, where Homo sapiens footprints dating back 12,000–14,000 years have been found, as well as remains of Ursus spelaeus, the cave bear, in the famous “Bear Cemetery.”

The Lower Cave of Santa Lucia, discovered in 1960, is renowned for its chambers richly decorated with calcite and aragonite formations, while the Upper Cave of Santa Lucia preserves historical engravings and a 16th‑century rock sanctuary.

FINALBORGO

Finalborgo is a medieval town just a stone’s throw from the sea, enclosed within perfectly preserved city walls. Locals say that inside these walls one feels protected—perhaps even cared for—and it is hard to disagree. Part of the “Most Beautiful Villages of Italy” network, this hamlet of Finale Ligure—one of the most dynamic towns on the Riviera di Ponente—represents the city’s romantic heart.

Every street, square, and corner hides architectural treasures, whether an opulent palace, a monumental church, or one of the splendid doorways, columns, and decorative slate elements that embellish buildings rich in history. What makes Finalborgo truly special is the way the grandeur of the past coexists with a lively present, animated by people of all ages and a wealth of shops, artisan workshops, and cafés.

ALASSIO

Alassio is one of the most popular towns along the Ligurian coast. Particularly lively during the summer months, it is now considered one of the most sought‑after destinations for holidaymakers who love the sea and sandy beaches. It is located along the Riviera di Ponente, about 49 km south of Savona.

Equally notable is Alassio’s historical, artistic, and gastronomic heritage, which makes it an ideal destination for pleasant stays or for spending a day dedicated to relaxation, entertainment, and fine cuisine.

Magnificent noble buildings enrich Alassio’s architectural heritage, especially the Palazzo Ferrero de Gubernatis Ventimiglia, built in the 18th century; Palazzo Brea, located in the historic center; Palazzo Scofferi, dating back to the 18th century, where a crucifix attributed to the Flemish sculptor Jean de Boulogne can be admired; and the 17th‑century Palazzo Bonfante.

ALASSIO – THE GARDENS OF VILLA DELLA PERGOLA

Villa della Pergola in Alassio is a historic residence surrounded by magnificent Anglo‑Mediterranean gardens overlooking the sea. The park, dating back to the late 19th century, is home to botanical collections that are unique in Europe, including over 40 varieties of wisteria and more than 500 types of agapanthus.

After years of neglect, the gardens have been carefully restored and now offer an enchanting route through exotic plants, flower‑covered pergolas, and panoramic views of the Gulf. Open to visitors by reservation, they are considered one of the most fascinating green gems of the Ligurian Riviera.

VARIGOTTI

Varigotti is a charming seaside village located on the Riviera di Ponente in Liguria, a hamlet of the municipality of Finale Ligure. Famous for its colorful houses overlooking the sea and its golden sandy beach, it is one of the most captivating destinations along the Ligurian coast.

Varigotti blends the charm of the Mediterranean landscape with the tranquility of a village seemingly suspended in time, featuring narrow lanes, picturesque views, and an authentic atmosphere. Once an ancient Saracen port, it still preserves traces of its history in the remains of the Saracen tower and in the Church of San Lorenzo. Today, it is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, crystal‑clear waters, and natural beauty, without giving up culture and tradition.