Varigotti: A Ligurian Coastal Gem
Discover Varigotti: a picturesque Ligurian village with colorful houses, stunning beaches, and a rich history waiting to be explored.
Varigotti, a 'frazione' of Finale Ligure in the province of Savona, is a captivating seaside village on the Italian Riviera. Known as a 'borgo saraceno' (Saracen village), its history is rich and varied, with influences from Roman, Byzantine, Lombard, and Saracen civilizations. This history is reflected in the unique architecture of the village, characterized by bright, pastel-colored houses clustered along the waterfront. The village is famous for its beaches, which offer a mix of sandy and pebbly shores. The Baia dei Saraceni (Saracen's Bay) is particularly well-known, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria with clear waters and a wild, natural setting. Other notable beaches include Varigotti beach, Malpasso beach and Punta Crena beach. These beaches provide opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, water sports, and relaxation. Beyond the beaches, Varigotti offers other attractions. The ancient Church of San Lorenzo, dating back to the 12th century, is worth a visit. The Saracen Tower and the Castello, a 16th-century watchtower in the Parco Naturale di Punta Crema, offer panoramic views. The village itself is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, perfect for exploring and discovering local shops and restaurants. Varigotti's economy is primarily based on tourism, with the summer months being the busiest. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque surroundings, engage in water sports, and savor local seafood dishes at the numerous restaurants along the beach. Despite its popularity, Varigotti maintains a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.
Local tips
- Visit the Baia dei Saraceni early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure a good spot on the beach.
- Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the village to discover hidden gems and local shops.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the beach promenade.
- Consider hiking the Sentiero del Pellegrino for stunning coastal views.
- Parking can be challenging, especially in summer. Arrive early or consider using public transport.
A brief summary to Varigotti
- Via del Capo, 24, Varigotti, Province of Savona, 17024, IT
Getting There
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Walking
From Piazza Vittorio Veneto, the main square in Varigotti, walk along Via del Capo, the pedestrian street that runs parallel to the beach. Continue east, passing the colorful houses and shops. The walk to the eastern end of the village, towards Baia dei Saraceni, takes about 15-20 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From Finale Ligure Marina train station, take bus line 40/ towards Savona. The bus runs approximately every 20 minutes. Get off at the Varigotti - Piazza Ulivi stop, which is in the center of Varigotti. From there, it's a short walk to the beach and other attractions. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50 and can be purchased at a 'tabaccheria' (tobacconist) or on the MyCicero app.
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Taxi
From Finale Ligure, a taxi ride to Varigotti takes approximately 6-7 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the Finale Ligure train station. The estimated cost for a taxi ride from Finale Ligure to Varigotti is between €9 and €13.
