The tour from Portofino to Camogli by bike is one of the most scenic you can explore along the Ligurian coast. A network of lanes and trails will lead you into the heart of a magical and unspoiled nature, with the summit of Monte Portofino on one side protecting you and the majestic views of the Gulf of Tigullio and Paradiso on the other.
Discover everything you need to know to tackle this ride in the best way and what the stops are on this wonderful itinerary!
What to Know Before You Get on Your Bike
The stretch of Ligurian coast that includes the Gulf of Tigullio, the Gulf of Paradiso and the Riviera di Levante is among the most charming in this region, a place chosen by tourists as much as the nearby Cinque Terre.
All the towns in this area share the feature of being nestled between lush inland and wild sea. Because of the variety and beauty of the landscapes, they are all perfect to explore on a day trip focused on sports activities, whether hiking or cycling.
In recent years, especially in these lands, there has been a true rediscovery of cycling and the number of bike, e-bike, or mountain bike itineraries has literally multiplied, catering to all tastes! If you don't have your own bicycle you can still take on this beautiful ride, because many local centers offer rentals.
The stretch Portofino – Camogli is therefore among the most popular, perhaps also due to its proximity to Genoa, which can also be your base if you come from afar. From Genoa, in fact, you can easily reach Camogli with a half-hour drive, while Portofino is farther away but takes just under an hour to get to. From Genoa's station, you can also take the train to reach either town in very little time.
Before you leave, remember to wear appropriate clothing, with comfortable clothes and shoes designed specifically for sports activities!
If you'd like to experience this adventure in company, you can join the Meeters e-bike tour. For all information and bookings, visit the dedicated page!
The Route and the Stops
To reach Camogli from Portofino or vice versa, you can take two different routes. The first passes through Santa Margherita Ligure and then inland. It is a fairly easy route covering 14 km in just over an hour, with an elevation gain under 600 meters.
The second path follows the coastline cliffside passing through San Fruttuoso. This road is longer and a bit more challenging, about three hours with elevation gains of 800 meters.
One idea, if you can, is to take one path on the way out and the other on the return, so you can enjoy the beautiful views both offer and visit all the intermediate stops.
Along the route, there are many points of interest where you can stop to visit, take some photos, and also enjoy a well-deserved lunch break! Let's see which are the most beautiful stops!
Portofino
Like many other villages in the area, Portofino was born as a fishing village, but over time it has transformed into a highly charming tourist destination. A walk through its historic center is a must to get lost among narrow streets and typical colorful houses.
Definitely worth visiting are its famous square, the Church of San Giorgio, the Church of San Martino and the Castello Brown. Located atop a gentle hill, the castle offers an unbeatable view of the entire gulf that will take your breath away!
Finally, the Portofino Park is a vast natural area, home to numerous animal species, which you can also visit on your bike. Climbing up to the Pietre Strette area, you will reach the most beautiful panoramic viewpoint in the area.
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Santa Margherita Ligure
Like Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure is a place much loved by tourists. It is a small seaside village that has preserved the historical features of the settlement, making it the perfect place to retreat and clear your mind.
Despite its small size, the center boasts many wonders and interesting architectures. You'll truly be spoiled for choice on what to visit, whether theAbbey of Cervara or Villa Durazzo, the Castle of Santa Margherita Ligure or the Cathedral of Madonna della Rosa. It's definitely worth staying a bit longer to see everything, perhaps also the Chapel of Gave!
San Fruttuoso
San Fruttuoso is another wonderful fishing village you will have the fortune to visit on your e-bike tour from Portofino to Camogli. It is a unique place to relax in contact with nature.
Certainly, the stop you cannot miss is theAbbey of San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte, a Benedictine monastery nestled in the rocky cliff that descends to the sea: truly unique!
Recco
Recco appears as a more modern town compared to those seen so far, because unfortunately it was destroyed during World War II. The Church of the Confraternity of Santa Chiara and the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary are among the most important monuments, inside which you can admire beautiful paintings and frescoes.
Camogli
We have now reached our final stop: Camogli. Born as a fishing village, over the centuries it transformed into the city of shipowners and thus the “city of a thousand white sailing ships“.
There are many things to see here. Among the first stands out without a doubt the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, built on a small promontory by the sea. However, it is the interior that will truly amaze you, with its frescoes and gilded stuccoes. Also the Medieval Dragon Castle, now used for various purposes!