Via Petronio, 16039 Riva Trigoso GE, Italy (May 2022)

Riva Trigoso

Riva Trigoso is a small coastal town situated in the Liguria region of northern Italy, along the Gulf of Tigullio. It is part of the municipality of Sestri Levante and lies just a few kilometres from the more widely known tourist towns of the Italian Riviera. Despite its modest size, Riva Trigoso offers visitors a unique combination of seaside charm, maritime heritage, and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere that reflects the rhythm of life along this part of the Ligurian coast.

The town is set along a sheltered bay, providing calm waters that have long supported fishing and small-scale maritime activities. Its beaches, composed of pebbles and sand, are ideal for swimming and sunbathing, and the surrounding coastline offers quiet spots away from larger tourist crowds. Small fishing boats dot the shoreline, a reminder of the town’s enduring relationship with the sea. The natural beauty of the area is complemented by the backdrop of hills and cliffs, which rise steeply from the coast and are covered in Mediterranean vegetation, including olive trees and pine groves.

Riva Trigoso has a rich maritime history. For decades, it has been known for its shipbuilding industry, with local shipyards producing vessels for both commercial and recreational use. This industrial tradition is a defining part of the town’s identity, linking modern life with centuries of craftsmanship and seafaring expertise. Walking through the town, it is possible to see evidence of this heritage, from working docks to older warehouses that have been repurposed for community and commercial use.

Despite its industrial connections, the town maintains a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. Narrow streets wind through clusters of houses, with pastel-coloured façades and tiled roofs that reflect typical Ligurian architecture. Small cafes, local bakeries, and family-run restaurants line the streets, offering visitors an authentic taste of regional cuisine. Seafood is a particular highlight, often served simply to showcase the freshness of the day’s catch. Local specialties are complemented by Ligurian olive oil, fresh herbs, and focaccia, creating meals that are flavourful yet understated.

The surrounding area offers opportunities for exploration and outdoor activity. Trails along the hills above the town provide scenic views of the Gulf of Tigullio, while nearby paths connect Riva Trigoso with Sestri Levante and other coastal villages. These routes allow visitors to experience both the natural beauty and the historic charm of the Ligurian Riviera. The proximity to larger towns means that cultural attractions, shopping, and entertainment are easily accessible while maintaining the peacefulness of a smaller community.

Riva Trigoso is a town where the sea, history, and everyday life coexist in harmony. Its quiet beaches, maritime heritage, and scenic surroundings make it an appealing destination for travellers seeking a slower pace and a more intimate experience of the Italian coast. Visitors leave with a sense of connection to the land and sea, and an appreciation for a place where tradition and natural beauty are closely intertwined.

Worth a Visit

Photo Gallery of Walk – Via Petronio to Via Giacomo Balbi
Approximately 1.09 km – 0.68 miles

The walk starts in Via Petronio – Via Benedetto Brin – Via Milite Ignoto – Via Giacomo Balbi