Sea and mountains make up the outline of Liguria in a combination of tenacity and generosity. From the entroterra to the coast, the region is always ready to capture the visitor’s eye – and heart. Featuring in a constellation of seaside ancient centres, Pietra Ligure offers a variety of options and emotions: sports fans opt for slopes, trails and panoramas, whereas slow tourists go for beaches, strolls, sunsets, suntan, brocante and cordiality, the light of the sea penetrating into the tranquillity of the borgo.
Pietra Ligure, the stone by the sea, the rock at the mouth of the Maremola stream, the spur where the castle clung to dominate the beautiful north-eastern bay, the last Roman-Byzantine stronghold against the Barbarian incursions of the dark Ages of Europe.
On the contrary, nowadays Pietra is a peaceful seaside resort set in the heart of the Ligurian Riviera delle Palme, the easiest reach by car or train. Whether you travel from the west (Alassio) or from the east (Finale Ligure), the via Aurelia will unravel its several wonders.Together with Loano and Borghetto Santo Spirito, this 9,000 inhabitants centre (relying on an efficient tourist information office) forms a lively seaside conurbation. Pietra boasts an important shipbuilding tradition, a pleasant marina, a relaxing lungomare and a first-rate accommodation system rich in hotels and stabilimenti balneari – the best mix for a serene, gratifying holiday. The destination is the perfect choice for demanding tourists, families with kids and nature fans. The sea, in fact, provides a thousand emotions and experiences (water sports, diving, courses…), equalled by the entroterra’s offer –the delightful hamlet of Ranzi, the caves of Toirano, the “Saracen” borgo of Verezzi and the beech forest of the Colle del Melogno all provide plenty of opportunities for excursions (on foot or by MTB) discoveries and serious relaxation.
Parallel to the vast seashore, the historical centre conveys the sounds and the smells of the most authentic Ligurian Riviera – a mosaic of shady carruggi, ancient arches between huddled houses, unexpected piazzette, pescherie (lampare fishing lights are still used), olives, white wine and – in the proper season – snails and chick-pea farinata. On the last Sunday of the month the vicoli are animated by a colourful brocante market, the joy of passionate collectors