Santa Margherita Ligure, a seaside town on Italy’s Ligurian Riviera, offers a blend of coastal scenery, elegant architecture, and maritime traditions. Nestled between Rapallo and Portofino, it has long attracted travelers seeking both relaxation and a glimpse of authentic Italian life. The town’s waterfront is lined with pastel-colored buildings, fishing boats, and palm trees, creating a scene that feels both timeless and lively. A stroll along the lungomare (promenade) reveals views of the sparkling Gulf of Tigullio, where yachts glide past the old harbor.

Santa Margherita Ligure is a gateway to the Portofino Regional Natural Park, known for its scenic coastal trails. A popular route leads from the town to Portofino itself, winding past Mediterranean pines, rocky cliffs, and hidden coves. Along the way, visitors can stop at Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a 10th-century Benedictine monastery tucked into a secluded bay. This abbey can only be reached by foot or boat, giving the place an almost secret atmosphere. The crystal-clear water here is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and just offshore lies the famous “Christ of the Abyss” statue beneath the waves.