Living on the Gulf is located on the Strada Aurelia. A few minutes from the center of Zoagli, it is well connected to the other towns on the Tigullio Gulf and nearby larger towns, such as Genoa. For further information, please call us with no obligations at +39 335 5946153 or fill out the form.
3000 people live in Zoagli, 40 km from Genoa. Overlooking the Tigullio Gulf, between Rapallo and Chiavari, it combines the colors of the sea and those of the hills. A well-kept environment, with several options to enjoy nature, culture and history or get to know the Ligurian culinary tradition.
Living on the Tigullio Gulf Zoagli
It is a small, pastel-colored town, with surprising picturesque views. Zoagli spreads between the hills and the sea and includes the three villages of Sant’Ambrogio, San Pietro di Rovereto and Semorile. A characteristic feature of Zoagli are the so-called ‘creuze’, narrow medieval streets that climb up the hill crest. Two pedestrian roads originate from the center of Zoagli, one toward east and the other one toward west, climbing up the hill crest toward villages and farms, where they almost create a white cobweb against the green natural landscape. It is still possible to walk along several paths, to take in the unique view of the Italian Riviera. Since the 19th century Zoagli has been a well-known tourist destination, but the local economy is also based on fishing and silk weaving, a legacy of the past that still benefits the village, by trading and exporting the precious fabrics worldwide.
The sea in Zoagli
Zoagli surrounds the sea with its charming promenade, the seafront pedestrian cliff built in the ’30s with the help of the locals. To promote the increasing tourism, the locals built a stone path on the sea, which allows walking along cliffs and coves on both sides of the central beach. At night, the promenade is lit, thus becoming a very romantic spot to enjoy the view of the Tigullio Gulf. Besides its unique beauty, the pedestrian cliff has also helped increase the seaside facilities. The heart of the Zoagli coast is the town beach, equipped with private and public bathing establishments. Walking along the promenade, you can also reach coves and cliffs from which you can dive into the emerald waters of the Tigullio. Scuba divers can also enjoy underwater trips, to take in the beautiful statue of the Madonna del Mare (Virgin of the Sea), 9 meters deep into the waters of Levante, opposite the Rotonda Grande. This statue, created by sculptor Marian Hastianatte, is 1.60 m tall and has been protecting the people of Zoagli since 1996.
Naturalistic routes in Zoagli
You can follow several paths – of various lengths – along ‘creuse’ and mule tracks. Therefore, there are many options for those who want to surround themselves with nature in Zoagli. The most complete and well-known walk – crossing all the villages halfway up the hill and unveiling the local churches – is Cinque Campanili, 11 km among paths, mule tracks and creuse. It is named after the five churches – and their bell towers – located all along its length. Along this path, for instance, we can find Sexi – a village that was abandoned several decades ago – where we can find the Eulitic portals of ancient houses, the Sant’Ambrogio square overlooking the whole Tigullio Gulf and a view on Rapallo and Portofino. It crosses thick holm-oak and chestnut woods, besides the characteristic olive ‘strip’ terrace cropping.
Living in Zoagli: facilities
The people of Zoagli know that this beautiful town lacks nothing. There are neighborhood shops, for daily purchases. There are sports facilities, such as the soccer field and the tennis court. There are also important areas for socializing, such as the picturesque square by the sea, or the giant chessboard, where you can stop and play anytime or simply spend the evening.
How to reach Zoagli
Zoagli can be easily reached by car or train. The highway 1 Via Aurelia crosses the center of Zoagli, connecting it west to Rapallo and east to Chiavari. Zoagli also has a railway station on the regional Trenitalia Genoa-Pisa line.