Cycle path from San Lorenzo al Mare

A railway turned into a cycle path

The path follows the old single-track line of the Genoa–Ventimiglia railway, which hugged the coast. In 2001 the line was doubled and moved into tunnels inland between Ospedaletti and San Lorenzo, and the old San Lorenzo-Cipressa station was closed. The green corridor was created on the abandoned trackbed: first the section as far as San Lorenzo, then, after the railway was also moved between San Lorenzo and Andora in 2016, the Imperia and Diano Marina sections.

That is why the route is almost entirely flat, with gentle bends and tunnels, and some of the old stations have been turned into places to eat and drink.

What the path is like

The surface is tarmac throughout and the signage is clear, both painted on the ground and on signposts. For most of the route there are lanes reserved for bikes and one lane for pedestrians: walkers and runners should keep to theirs, and cyclists should slow down near the towns and the beach accesses. Along the way there are rest areas at scenic spots.

The route suits everyone: families with children, occasional cyclists, runners and skaters. You do not need a road bike or a mountain bike: any city bike will do.

The tunnels

The old railway tunnels have been restored and lit. In summer they offer a little cool air; bear in mind, though, that when you come out into the open the light changes suddenly, so slow down.

West from San Lorenzo: Arma di Taggia and Sanremo

Heading west, the path follows the coast through Santo Stefano al Mare and Riva Ligure to Arma di Taggia, with its long beaches. Carrying on, you enter Sanremo from Bussana and cross the whole town, past Portosole and the seafront promenade, to Ospedaletti, the western end point.

This is the best-known section: on 9 May 2015 the first stage of the Giro d’Italia was a 17.6-kilometre team time trial from San Lorenzo al Mare to Sanremo, along the path. It was won by the Orica-GreenEDGE team and Simon Gerrans wore the first maglia rosa. Riding at an easy pace, with stops at the sea, Sanremo makes a half-day trip.

East from San Lorenzo: Imperia, Diano Marina and Andora

Heading east, the path enters the territory of Imperia and crosses the town along the sea. On 20 June 2026 the last section between Imperia and Diano Marina was opened: since then you can ride without a break to Andora, passing close to Cervo. This is the direction to choose if you want to combine cycling with a visit to Imperia’s historic centres.

Bike rental and services

Along the route there are kiosks hiring out bikes and rickshaws by the hour, for half a day or for a full day; the Marina di San Lorenzo also offers bike rental and tours. Prices and opening times change with the season: check them on the spot. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as many stretches are in full sun.

Bike and train

San Lorenzo has no station: the nearest are Imperia and Taggia-Arma, both a few kilometres from the path. If you want to ride one way only, you can return by train from one of the stations along the coast, checking with Trenitalia which trains take bikes.

Tips for cycling

• When: spring and autumn are the best times; in summer set off early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
• Crowds: on summer weekends and near the centres of Sanremo and Imperia it gets very busy: keep your speed down.
• Children: the route is flat and away from traffic, but there are a few crossings and beach accesses.
• Stops: bring your swimsuit: it is easy to get down to the beach from the path.