Lavagna

Imagine walking along golden sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters that seem to stretch endlessly, set along the picturesque Ligurian Riviera.

Welcome to Lavagna: a lesser-known gem of Liguria, Italy, which boasts a stunning coastline that invites sunbathers to bask in the sun while enjoying breathtaking sea views.

In this guide you will discover the enchanting beaches of Lavagna, discovering their captivating beauty and practical tips for planning the perfect relaxing vacation.

You will find that Lavagna is also a strategic point to go and discover the most interesting naturalistic corners of the Riviera di Levante.

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It is very pleasant to visit Lavagna unhurriedly, experiencing the city among its streets, starting from Via Roma, the most important shopping street.

The municipality of Lavagna hides within its borders numerous attractions and places of interest, including:

Originally founded in 1972, the port has expanded over the years. Today, it covers 76,000 square meters, accommodates more than 1,400 berths, is full of first-class services, and makes it a landmark for boating enthusiasts and tourists.

The port is not simply a massive marina. It is the liveliest area of Lavagna, full of bars and restaurants, ideal for a stroll and to witness the city’s port life. It is also a great starting point for exploring other fascinating destinations along the Ligurian Riviera.

The Torre del Borgo, a symbol of Lavagna, is a historic tower that stands towering in the heart of the town. This solid medieval structure, built with dark basalt, forms an integral part of Lavagna’s historic landscape.

The construction of Torre del Borgo can be traced back to the medieval period, precisely between the 12th and 13th centuries. Built initially as a fortress, it played an essential role in Lavagna’s defense, offering protection from pirate and invader attacks.

The Borgo Tower is nestled in one of Lavagna’s easily accessible areas. Although it can be visited for free, it is worth noting that the tower is sometimes closed due to maintenance and weather conditions.

Torre del Borgo is undoubtedly one of Lavagna’s most precious historical jewels. It is a vivid testimony to medieval Italian architectural skill and the city’s resilience over time.

Casa Carbone stands out as a historic jewel that houses a slice of Lavagna’s rich past.Nestled in the center of Lavagna, Casa Carbone is a beautiful 18th-century house converted into a museum. Sparkling with a sense of opulence from a bygone era, entering Casa Carbone feels like stepping back in time, a time when exquisite art, fine craftsmanship and lush lifestyles were in vogue.

From the exterior facade to the interior design, Casa Carbone is a masterpiece of Genoese architecture. The exquisitely decorated rooms feature splendid frescoes, intricate stucco work and antique furniture that clearly indicate the lavish lifestyle of the 18th-century bourgeoisie. The house includes a library full of historical books, a dining room with silverware on display, and a living room with neoclassical furnishings, each revealing unique stories of Lavagna’s rich past.

Casa Carbone is also revered for its art collection. The collection includes a series of exhibits-paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more-each bearing witness to the artistic heritage of Liguria and the patronage of the Carbone family.

The house overlooks a beautiful Italianate garden. Here, the blooming colors of roses, hydrangeas, and magnolias blend seamlessly with the symmetrical beauty of topiaries and fountains, creating a tranquil haven for visitors.

In the 20th century, the Carbone brothers-Emanuel and Syria-the last surviving members of the lineage-made a unique decision. They entrusted their housing stock and its contents to FAI (Fondo Ambiente Italiano). The purpose was to preserve the legacy and aesthetic essence of their lived past for future generations.

The Basilica of St. Stephen, is structure whose origins date back to the fifth century BC. Nestled among the winding, narrow streets of Lavagna, this historic church is more than just a place of worship: it is a symbol of the city’s religious and cultural heritage.

Although the church originates from antiquity, most of what can be seen today is the result of major restoration work carried out in the 12th and 17th centuries.

As an exemplary manifestation of Romanesque design, the exterior of the church is adorned with intricate carvings and an unpretentious entrance that exudes an aura of peaceful solemnity. Once inside, the well-preserved interior reveals a myriad of artistic treasures.

The church is known for its eye-catching display of frescoes adorning the walls and ceiling.

St. Stephen’s Church is accessible to the public and admission is usually free.

Palazzo Franzoni, whispers stories of the city’s aristocratic past. Built as a noble residence, this imposing structure is rich in cultural richness and architectural elegance.

Originally erected in the 16th century, Palazzo Franzoni has morphed over time, gradually gaining additions and renovations, thus becoming a tangible representation of changing architectural styles and historical eras.

The interiors of Palazzo Franzoni serve as a gallery of art exhibitions spanning centuries. From the grandiose frescoes adorning the high ceilings to the maze of rooms sporting antique furniture, it offers visitors a journey into the aesthetic preferences of the past.

To enrich your visit to Franzoni Palace, guided tours are available. We recommend booking in advance or checking with the local tourist office due to occasional restrictions for private events.

Nature blooms in all its glory at the Entella Wildlife Oasis, a wildlife oasis nestled in the heart of Italy’s beautiful Ligurian region. An enchanting mix of diverse fauna, vibrant flora and the meandering Entella River, this natural gem extends a warm invitation into Mother Nature’s peaceful sanctuary. Let this blog guide you through the tantalizing sights of the Entella Wildlife Oasis.

Longing for tranquility in the lap of unspoiled nature? The Entella Wildlife Oasis is nestled in the heart of Liguria. An enchanting mix of diverse fauna, lush flora in the natural setting of the Entella River.

Established in 1985, the wildlife oasis covers 50 hectares in the heart of the Entella River. The noble effort to protect local biodiversity and provide humans with a serene oasis led to the creation of this paradise.

The heart of the oasis comes alive with the enthralling play of different species such as the water rail, purple heron and great egret. Butterfly species flutter in abundance, enhancing the visual appeal of the area. The oasis is also a temporary home for numerous migratory birds, offering birdwatchers a true paradise.

Dense groves of riparian vegetation cover the landscape of the Entella Wildlife Oasis. Wrapped under the emerald embrace are species such as poplars, willows, reeds, and so on, underscoring the diversity of plant life that flourishes in this eden.

Numerous marked trails wind through the oasis, revealing up close the secret life of the flora and fauna. Walk along these paths, soak in the undisturbed peace and tune in to the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds and flowing water.

Visitors can walk through the oasis, guided by marked trails that do not interfere with wildlife. Access is free, but guided tours or educational workshops can be booked for a detailed exploration of the Oasis.

Lavagna Beach is the town’s main beach, boasting a vast expanse of golden sand that stretches for about 4 km. The beach is characterized by its fine sand, clear waters, and backdrop of lush green hills along the coast.

Visitors to Lavagna Beach can enjoy numerous water sports, including swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The beach is lined with beach cafes, restaurants, and stores, providing ample opportunities for tourists to relax, dine, and explore the local atmosphere.

The best times to visit Lavagna Beach are during late spring and early fall, when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are fewer. A popular hidden gem nearby is the scenic trail leading to the ancient ruins of Lavagna Castle, where spectacular views of the coastline can be enjoyed.

Just south of Lavagna’s main beach is Cavi di Lavagna Beach, a smaller, secluded beach known for its tranquil setting and intriguing rock formations.

This picturesque stretch of fine sand is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. There are many hiking trails along the beach that offer breathtaking views, especially the hike to Punta Manara.

A short drive or train ride away from Lavagna is the lovely Chiavari beach. This wide sandy beach offers serene appeal and is popular with families for its fresh waters and safe bathing conditions.

Chiavari Beach offers a healthy beach experience, with beach volleyball courts, boardwalks, and even a small water park for children.

Lavagna’s coastal paradise is best enjoyed from late spring to early fall, when temperatures and weather conditions are optimal.

In Lavagna, the choice of hotels, many B&Bs, room rentals, vacation homes and apartments for tourists is concentrated in the beach area.

Here too, as in many places in Liguria, it is definitely advisable to book early to have the best possible choice.

Reaching Lavagna is very easy.

By car, you can get there by highway, the A12 Genoa-Livorno, exiting at Lavagna, and following the signs to the city center.

Reaching Lavagna by train is relatively easy, as it is well connected by Italy’s extensive rail network. The nearest airport is Genoa’s Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA), about 50 km away. Both Genoa and La Spezia have frequent train connections to Lavagna, making it a convenient destination for a beach vacation.