Discover Camogli and Portofino Park through scenic trails, group activities, and outdoor experiences in the heart of nature.
Camogli is one of the most charming coastal villages in Liguria, overlooking the Golfo Paradiso and serving as the western gateway to the Portofino National Park. Famous for its pastel-colored facades and small harbor, it is an ideal destination for those wondering what to see in Camogli and wishing to experience the area’s blend of sea and nature.
The route between Camogli and San Fruttuoso is one of the most picturesque on the headland: the scenic trail winds along cliffs and through Mediterranean scrub to the abbey overlooking the sea, while the route to Punta Chiappa offers spectacular views of the Golfo Paradiso.
Thanks to its location at the entrance to Portofino Park, Camogli is also the ideal starting point for outdoor activities such as orienteering, team-building courses, educational activities, and school field trips.
Camogli boasts a distinguished tradition of sailing, which is still preserved today in the Gio Bono Ferrari Maritime Museum. In the mid-1800s, in fact, Camogli was known as the “city of a thousand white sailing ships” and was one of the world’s greatest naval powers (Camogli’s fleet was larger than Hamburg’s). Thanks to the economic growth driven by maritime trade, the community theater, the hospital, and the kindergarten were built during that period.
Fortress of Camogli was Castel Dragone, tower of defense also used in defense of the Saracen invasions, dated back to the 11th century and later expanded. The adjacent church of S. Maria Assunta originally from the 11th century still preserves many works of Ligurian artists. Castle, church and annexed houses were built on the island of the village, today joined to the mainland through Piazza Colombo, built on the water of the port.
The origin of the name of Camogli – “Camuggi” in dialect – has several interpretations, among the best known include “cà a muggi” which suggests stacked houses, a characteristic that emerges above all from the sea, or “cà da muggé” the house of wives, indicating the prevalence of the female population while the men were embarked engaged in the work of fishing.
Camogli is the western gate of the Regional Park of Portofino. From here, both by sea and by land, you may discover breathtaking views and enchanting stretches of coastline, including San Rocco, Punta Chiappa, San Fruttuoso and Portofino.
Punta Chiappa represents the border between the southern and western sides of the promontory. Thanks to its characteristics and its position it is a very popular site for diving and snorkeling lovers.
The western slope of the promontory is characterized mainly by by formations of marly limestone from the Mount Antola.
The village of Camogli still retains its authentic maritime character today, with its typical tall, colorful houses overlooking the beach and the small harbor. Strolling through the narrow streets, you’ll come across panoramic views of the Golfo Paradiso, black-and-white photos, and reminders of the town’s long naval tradition.
Among the most picturesque spots in the area are Punta Chiappa, the village of San Rocco di Camogli, and the Abbey of San Fruttuoso—one of the landmarks of the promontory—which can be reached on foot via the trails of Portofino Park or by boat.
For those who love hiking in nature, Camogli is one of the main gateways to the trails on the western side of Portofino National Park. From here, scenic trails lead to San Rocco, Punta Chiappa, and the famous bay of San Fruttuoso, winding throu
These routes allow you to explore one of the most picturesque stretches of coastline in Liguria, offering a mix of views of the Golfo Paradiso, hidden coves, and prime vantage points on the headland.
The Outdoor Portofino marina is located in Niasca, in Paraggi Bay, one kilometer from Portofino when coming from Santa Margherita Ligure.
The Niasca office is open to the public during the summer months, from May through September. During the rest of the year, we remain open and offer services by appointment.
Live as a local, visit the most authentic spots and learn the local traditions coming into contact with nature and sport.
