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Via Aldo Moro, 19025 Porto Venere, Italy (September 2018)
Porto Venere
Porto Venere, a picturesque seaside village located on the Ligurian coast of Italy, is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm. Nestled between the famous Cinque Terre and the bustling city of La Spezia, this small but enchanting town often remains under the radar of many tourists. However, those who do visit quickly discover its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant coastal allure. The combination of dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with colourful houses makes Porto Venere one of Italy’s most captivating coastal destinations. Founded by the Romans, Porto Venere has a history that stretches back over two millennia. Its name, derived from “Portus Veneris” (Port of Venus), reflects the town’s mythological connection to Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty. According to legend, the town was named after a temple dedicated to Venus that once stood on the rocky promontory where the striking Church of San Pietro nowGolfo dei Poeti), a name given to the gulf in honour of the many writers and artists who have found inspiration in its beauty, including Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and D.H. Lawrence. Visitors can walk through the castle’s ancient walls and explore its history while enjoying the sweeping vistas of the rugged coastline and surrounding islands.
One of Porto Venere’s greatest attractions is its natural surroundings, particularly the Palmaria Island and the nearby Tino and Tinetto islands, all part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also includes the Cinque Terre. These islands offer hiking opportunities, secluded beaches, and unspoiled landscapes teeming with Mediterranean flora and fauna. Palmaria Island, the largest of the three, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails that lead to dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and historic fortifications. The pristine waters around the islands are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life and underwater caves that dot the coastline. The village itself is a delightful blend of medieval architecture and vibrant coastal life. Its harbour is lined with tall, colourful buildings that seem to rise directly from the water’s edge, creating a postcard-perfect scene. The town’s narrow streets, known as carruggi, are filled with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants offering a taste of Ligurian cuisine. Fresh seafood locally made pasta like trofie with pesto, and the region’s famed white wines from the nearby Cinque Terre are staples on most menus. Dining here is an experience of both flavour and atmosphere, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating that overlooks the sea. Porto Venere’s timeless beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect destination for travellers seeking a more tranquil alternative to the more crowded tourist hubs of the Italian Riviera. Its combination of historical significance, architectural marvels, and breath-taking natural surroundings make it a UNESCO-recognized site of immense cultural and environmental value. Whether you are wandering through its ancient streets, exploring its islands, or simply soaking in the views from a seaside café, Porto Venere promises a truly unforgettable experience that captures the magic of Italy’s Ligurian coast.
Worth a Visit
Passeggiata Aldo Moro in Portovenere, Italy, is a scenic promenade that perfectly captures the charm and beauty of the Ligurian coast. Stretching along the waterfront, it offers breath-taking views of the Gulf of Poets, where the sea sparkles against a backdrop of colourful houses, historic churches, and the rugged cliffs of Palmaria Island. Named after the Italian statesman Aldo Moro, the walkway invites both locals and visitors to slow down and savour the relaxed pace of life. Lined with benches and shaded by Mediterranean greenery, it is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet rest, or simply watching fishing boats glide across the harbour. The Passeggiata connects easily to Portovenere’s historic center, making it a natural extension of a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether at sunrise, sunset, or in the lively hours of the day, it is a place that embodies tranquillity and timeless coastal beauty.
Via Aldo Moro in Portovenere, Italy, is a charming street that reflects the laid-back coastal character of this UNESCO World Heritage village. Nestled between the dramatic Ligurian cliffs and the shimmering Gulf of Poets, the road provides access to both everyday life and stunning sea views. Unlike the historic lanes of Portovenere’s medieval centre, Via Aldo Moro feels more residential and tranquil, yet it remains close to the vibrant heart of the town. Small shops, local services, and welcoming cafés can be found along the way, making it an ideal spot for visitors who wish to experience the authentic rhythm of daily life in Portovenere. Its gentle slopes and convenient location also connect travellers to the scenic promenade, Passeggiata Aldo Moro, and the picturesque harbourfront. For those seeking a quieter side of Portovenere while staying close to its cultural and natural treasures, Via Aldo Moro offers the perfect balance.
Salita Castello in Portovenere, Italy, is a steep yet enchanting lane that leads visitors on a journey through history and breath-taking views. As its name suggests, the street climbs toward the imposing Doria Castle, the medieval fortress that dominates the town’s skyline. The walk up Salita Castello is an experience in itself: narrow stone steps, ancient walls, and glimpses of the sea create a truly atmospheric setting. Along the way, travellers pass quaint houses, lush terraces, and hidden corners that speak to the town’s rich past. At the summit, the reward is not only the castle’s impressive architecture but also sweeping panoramas of the Gulf of Poets, Palmaria Island, and the colourful facades of Portovenere below. Combining charm, history, and natural beauty, Salita Castello is more than a street, it is a path into the soul of Portovenere, inviting every visitor to pause, explore, and admire.
Via Capellini, the main street of Portovenere, Italy, is the vibrant heart of this picturesque coastal village. Winding through the historic centre, it is lined with tall, narrow houses painted in vivid shades of ochre, pink, and red, creating a colourful backdrop for daily life. The street is a lively mix of traditional shops, cosy trattorias, artisan boutiques, and cafés, where the aroma of fresh focaccia and seafood fills the air. Walking along Via Capellini is like stepping back in time, with its medieval arches, stone pavements, and views that occasionally open onto the sparkling Gulf of Poets. Popular with both locals and travellers, the street perfectly balances authenticity and charm, offering a glimpse into the town’s heritage while celebrating its modern vibrancy. Whether for shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Via Capellini is an essential part of the Portovenere experience.
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Via Giuseppe Garibaldi to Via Calata Doria
Approximately 3.52 km – 2.19 miles
The walk starts in Via Giuseppe Garibaldi – Scalinata Arenella – Passeggiata Aldo Moro – Via Olivo – Via II Traversa Olivo – Walk back along Via II Traversa Olivo , Via Olivo & Passeggiata Aldo Moro to Via Aldo Moro – Piazza Bastreri – Piazza Darsena – Via Calata Doria
Please note, some of the street names were taken from the Michelin Street map for Portovenere https://www.viamichelin.co.uk/web/Maps/Map-Portovenere-19025-La_Spezia-Italy
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Piazza del Tomolo to Via Adriatica
Approximately 0.60 km – 0.37 miles
The walk starts in Piazza del Tomolo – Via Santa Maria – Via Giosia – Piazza L. V. Pudente – Cattedrale di San Giuseppe, Piazza L. V. Pudente – Piazza L. V. Pudente – Via Vescovado – Piazza L. V. Pudente – Piazza del Popolo – Via Adriatica
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