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Winter in Liguria reveals routes and villages that, far from the summer hustle and bustle, become the ideal retreat for nature lovers and hikers. Thanks to the mild climate, this season invites unhurried exploration of Liguria's hills and coasts, where colors and atmospheres become more intense. From the silent forests of Aveto Park to the coastal views of Mount Portofino, each trail tells a different story, while villages such as Pentema and Campo Ligure, with their traditions and crafts, welcome visitors on a journey of rediscovery of local traditions.
Hiking in Nature: Trails and Landscapes to Discover
Winter hiking near Genoa allows you to explore a nature that knows how to surprise at every step. Paths immersed in woods and stupendous views frame a journey capable of uniting sea and mountain. Discovering these places in winter means getting in tune with a Liguria that is perhaps less known, but deeply fascinating.
Aveto Regional Natural Park - The Green Heart of Liguria
The Aveto Regional Nature Park is a protected area that encompasses some of the most striking mountain landscapes in Liguria.
The trail to Mount Penna, one of the highest points in the park, is ideal for those seeking panoramic views ranging from the Alps to the Apennines, with glimpses that open out to the sea. In contrast, the Lame Forest, with its ancient trees and small lakes, offers a more intimate and relaxing experience, immersed in an almost surreal silence. In winter, these trails provide truly unique colors and atmosphere.
Warning: the trails in winter are often snow-covered! We recommend checking the weather forecast before setting out and considering taking part in a guided hike.
Directions: from Genoa, by car, follow the A12 highway to Lavagna, then continue on the SP26 towards Rezzoaglio and Santo Stefano d'Aveto, the main access points to the park.
Mount Portofino - Trekking with Sea Views even in Winter
The Mount of Portofino offers truly evocative trekking routes, quietly passable even in winter, with views of the sea stretching to the horizon.
Among the most striking trails, the one that connects Portofino to San Fruttuoso di Camogli offers unique views: the path winds along the coast, passing scenic viewpoints, until it reaches the famous abbey of San Fruttuoso, set in a bay accessible only on foot or by sea. In winter, the colors of the Mediterranean scrub intensify and the trail is less crowded, ideal for those seeking a moment of peace and contact with nature.
Directions: from Genoa, by car, take the A12 highway and exit at Rapallo, then follow the signs for Portofino, or exit at Recco and park near San Rocco di Camogli, choosing an alternative path on the headland. By public transportation, you can take a regional train to Santa Margherita Ligure and from there continue by bus to Portofino or on foot along the path along the coast.
Beigua Park - Hiking in the Mountains with a Sea View
Beigua Park is one of the most fascinating protected areas in Liguria, where trails wind between mountains and sea, giving views that embrace the entire coast and the Ligurian Alps.
Among the most beloved trails, the path leading to the Faiallo Pass is perfect for those seeking spectacular views of the sea even in winter. Here, on clear days, you can admire a unique contrast between the blue of the sea and the snow-capped peaks on the horizon.
Caution: this is also an area at risk of snowfall in winter, so it is advisable to bring suitable shoes to deal with potentially slippery sections and to consult weather conditions, considering taking part in a guided hike.
Directions: from Genoa, by car, take the highway to the Voltri exit and continue on the SP73 until you reach the Faiallo Pass.
Villages to Discover in Winter in the Surroundings of Genoa
Ligurian villages, especially in winter, reveal an authentic soul far from mass tourism. Strolling through the streets of these small historic centers, among artisan traditions and striking views, allows you to discover the most hidden and fascinating Liguria.
Campo Ligure - A Medieval Village between Nature and Traditions
Campo Ligure, a small medieval village nestled among the hills, is known for its artisan workshops specializing in filigree work, a tradition that has been handed down for centuries.
In winter, the village takes on an intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle and explore the narrow streets of the historic center. The nature surrounding Campo Ligure also offers accessible hiking trails, ideal for those who want to combine culture and nature in a single experience.
Directions: from Genoa, by car, you can take the A26 highway towards Alessandria and exit at Masone, then follow the signs to Campo Ligure (about 40 minutes). By public transportation, you can take a regional train from Genoa Brignole or Genoa Principe station to Campo Ligure-Masone.
Camogli - The Kingdom of Amaretto and Focaccia in a Natural Frame
Camogli, overlooking Paradise Gulf, is famous for its colorful village and long seafaring tradition. In winter, the village calms down and offers a picturesque setting for walks along the small harbor or in the historic center.
It is also the perfect place to enjoy local sweets or a plate of cheese focaccia, a local specialty. A visit to Camogli pairs well with an excursion to Mount Portofino, which can be reached directly from the village by scenic paths that open up to the sea.
Directions: from Genoa, by car you can take the A12 highway, exit at Recco and follow the signs for Camogli. By public transportation, you can take a regional train from Genoa, which goes directly to Camogli in about 30 minutes.
Pentema - The Village of Nativity Scenes
Pentema is a small village in the Ligurian hinterland that, during the winter, comes alive with the traditional display of a life-size nativity scene. Among the stone houses and narrow streets of the village, you can admire scenes of daily life and typical characters, combined with an atmosphere that takes you back in time.
Directions: from Genoa, by car take the A7 highway to Busalla, then follow the SP7 and SP10 toward Pentema. By public transport, access is more complex: you need to take a train to Busalla and from there continue by bus to nearby towns, but service may be reduced in winter.