Portovenere, Liguria’s well-kept secret, bewitches travelers in search of authenticity and charm. Nestled not far from the famous Cinque Terre, this picturesque village reveals its treasures to those who dare to venture off the beaten track. Between its colorful streets, its medieval castle and its breathtaking view of the sea, Portovenere promises a captivating getaway, far from the tourist hustle and bustle. Venture into its meanders and let yourself be seduced by the magic of this preserved place, where history mixes with natural beauty in perfect harmony.
Imagine yourself lying on the deck of a boat, the sun caressing your skin after a feast of freshly harvested oysters. You are in Portovenere, a hidden treasure on the Ligurian coast of Italy. Forget the five villages of Cinque Terre, because Portovenere offers you a sixth wonder to explore!
A historical and cultural gem
Located about forty minutes by car from Pisa, Portovenere is a village full of charm with its colorful houses lining the port and its cobbled streets that transport us to the past. Every street corner reveals a new facet of its rich heritage, from historic churches to cemeteries offering breathtaking panoramas.
Accommodation in Portovenere
Grand Hotel Portovenere
The Grand Hotel Portovenere, located directly on the Portovenere Marina, is a true historical gem. Built from an old 17th century building, the Dimora Storica, this 5-star hotel combines historic charm and modern luxury. Imagine waking up to the smell of salty air and freshly baked focaccia, while admiring the stunning harbor views from your windows.
An unforgettable culinary experience
Palmaria Restaurant
For an exceptional dining experience, the Palmaria Restaurant at the Grand Hotel Portovenere is a must. With its nautical decor reminiscent of a ship’s interior and its outdoor terrace offering stunning sea views, this restaurant offers modern Italian cuisine using fresh seafood and quality local ingredients.
Trattoria Tre Torri
Just two minutes from the hotel, Trattoria Tre Torri is the ideal place to taste local specialties like pesto and focaccia. The quality of the region’s basil and olive oil makes each dish unforgettable. Don’t miss out on tasting their pesto pasta, a real delight for the taste buds.
Excursions and Experiences
Hiking on Palmaria Island
Take a ferry to the island of Palmaria, just a stone’s throw from Portovenere. The island is uninhabited and unspoiled, offering magnificent views and untouched nature. The hike can be strenuous, but the spectacular views are worth it. It’s a peaceful getaway from the crowds, ideal for total immersion in natural beauty.
Boat trip and oyster feast
Enjoy a boat trip departing from the island of Palmaria. Once anchored in the heart of the marina, you can enjoy freshly caught oysters, accompanied by pesto and white wine. After the feast, lie back on the deck of the boat and let the sun and sea breezes wash over you. You will have a unique perspective on the coastline and its majestic cliffs.
Visit and tasting at La Possa Winery
After a hike through the Cinque Terre, head to La Possa Winery in Riomaggiore for a guided tour of the vineyards. The property, carefully terraced on the side of a cliff, offers breathtaking views. Taste unique wines, slightly salty due to the proximity to the sea, produced using sustainable and environmentally friendly methods.
Hiking through the Cinque Terre
Via dell’Amore
The Via dell’Amore, or Path of Love, is one of the most famous hikes in the Cinque Terre. This easy one kilometer trail connects the villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola. Although it is temporarily closed due to a landslide, it is planned to reopen soon and offers a romantic and picturesque walk along the coast.
Vernazza in Corniglia
Start your hike in Vernazza, where colorful houses line the turquoise marina. After a visit to Antiochia’s Santa Margherita Church and Castello Doria, prepare to climb a long staircase. The magnificent views along the way are worth it. After about two hours of hiking with stops to admire the scenery, you will reach Corniglia, the least visited of the five villages, where you can enjoy fresh focaccia and explore this picturesque town.
How to get around Cinque Terre
To visit the Cinque Terre from Portovenere it is best to opt for the ferry, which offers a splendid view of the coast and easily connects the five villages. If time does not permit, take the train from La Spezia, easily accessible with a transfer service organized by the Grand Hotel Portovenere. The train offers a quick and efficient journey between villages, perfect for travelers wanting to see the most in the least amount of time.
Although car rental is usually not necessary, be sure to check schedules and transportation options to maximize your time in this stunning area.
When to visit Cinque Terre
To avoid crowds, it is advisable to visit the Cinque Terre in low season (November-February) or just around the high season (March/April or October). A visit in April, for example, offers ideal weather for hiking while avoiding the floods of tourists. The busiest months are May, June and September, while July and August are the hottest. Outside of peak season, rates are more affordable, but some accommodation and dining options may be limited.
If you go there
- Book your stay directly on the website Grand Hotel Portovenere
- Discover the experiences and excursions offered by the Grand Hotel Portovenere
- Check out the ferry timetable to plan your journeys between villages
Portovenere is an ideal base for exploring the Cinque Terre and the surrounding area. The village charms with its peaceful atmosphere and its hidden treasures, offering a more serene alternative to the tourist villages of the Cinque Terre. Whether you decide to visit in high or low season, Portovenere and its surroundings promise you an unforgettable experience.
