Tigullio Grand Traverse: Chiavari, Portofino, Santa Margherita
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BioTigullio5Terre – Tigullio Trekking.
The Cammino del Tigullio is not just a trek – it’s a true Italian Riviera walking vacation. This loop itinerary of about 70 km (43 miles) starts and ends in Chiavari, combining mountain trails, coastal paths, and charming villages.
Over 5 days and 4 nights, you’ll walk along ancient “creuze” and mule tracks (37 km), as well as small village roads and coastal stretches (30 km). The route is fully self-guided, with the flexibility to adapt for experienced hikers in 4 days / 3 nights.
One of the highlights? This is a trek where you can also swim! Between May and October, 4 out of 5 stages bring you down to the sea: Chiavari, Rapallo, San Fruttuoso, Santa Margherita Ligure, San Michele di Pagana, and Zoagli. Imagine ending a day’s hike with a refreshing dive into the turquoise waters of Liguria.
5 stages (Chiavari loop) – 70 km / 43 miles of trails and coastal roads
Panoramic views from Nostra Signora delle Grazie, Montallegro, Monte Pegge (774m), Manico del Lume (801m), Ruta di Camogli
Iconic sites: San Fruttuoso Abbey, Portofino, Paraggi, Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, Zoagli
A perfect mix of mountains, sea, and traditional Ligurian villages
Swimming opportunities along the way – a rare bonus for hikers
Suggested Itinerary
Chiavari – Le Grazie – Monte Telegrafo – Sant'Andrea di Rovereto – Madonnetta – Monte Anchetta – Monte Castello – NS di Montallegro
On day 1 of the Tigullio Trail, you climb from 0 m above sea level in Chiavari to 612 m above sea level at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro. You pass through Chiavari via the seaside promenade. You cross the road, the railway, take the fork on the left and continue uphill through the oak woods until you reach the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace. From Grace, on the right, follow the signs for Monte Telegrafo. You then continue through the Case Sparse area of Sant'Andrea di Rovereto, continuing to reach the Chapel of the Madonnetta and finally reaching the first peak of today's Monte Anchetta. After taking 5 minutes to relax, you take a short stretch of asphalt road to then find the fork on the left that leads to Montallegro. From here, it will take another 2 hours at a brisk pace to reach your destination. Average travel time for today's stage is approximately 5 hours. Given the views and encounters you'll encounter, we invite you to walk slowly—you're on vacation, after all—paying close attention to the route and the natural beauty.
Difficulty Level: For Everyone
Average travel time: approximately 5 hours
Length: approximately 12 km
Starting Point - Giovanni Paolo II Square
Start from Chiavari, a charming seaside town with shops, architecture, and seaside promenades. Prepare your gear, supplies, and mindset for a day of ascent. Here you can find a free parking area.
Sanctuary of Nostra Signora delle Grazie
Pass through this hilltop sanctuary with views over the sea. Great spot for a pause, photos, and to soak up the regional history.
Monte Anchetta Refuge (≈ 450 m)
After a stretch uphill, arrive at the refuge on Monte Anchetta. A perfect place to rest and taste genuine local food — cheese, wine, or simple local specialties.
Final Ascent to Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro (612 m)
Complete the climb through Mediterranean scrub and panoramic ridges until reaching Montallegro. The sanctuary’s views and atmosphere offer a fulfilling end to Day 1.
Moments that define this adventure
