The Gulf of the Island remains an ideal destination for outdoor and culture enthusiasts even during the Christmas season. Thanks to the Routes of the Gulf project, supported by local authorities and Pro Loco with contributions from the Compagnia di San Paolo Foundation, a diverse schedule of guided tours will allow visitors to explore the most enchanting corners of Bergeggi, Noli, Spotorno, and Vezzi Portio, enhanced by unique Nativity displays.
EXCURSIONS TO SUIT EVERY TASTE
From nature trails discovering the Roman bridges of Val Ponci (27 December) along the ancient Via Julia Augusta, to the cork oak forest of Bergeggi (6 January), a haven of peace and biodiversity. Enjoy historical walks through the alleys of Noli and Spotorno (1-4 January), with theatrical visits to Monte Ursino Castle (28 December), bringing to life epic battles of the past, and elegant re-enactments of the Belle Époque (29 December), celebrating the era’s glamour. Literary treks will trace Camillo Sbarbaro (30 December), capturing the poetry of the Ligurian landscape, and panoramic routes over the hills of Vezzi Portio (31 December, 5 January).
Nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Architectural Park of Torre del Mare in Bergeggi (26 December), overlooking the sea. Participate in urban trekking to explore buildings designed by Milanese architect Mario Galvagni, guided by a tour leader with insights from architect Francesca Olivieri. For children, a fun-filled treasure hunt with the Befana in Spotorno (5 January), featuring hidden clues, stories, and sweets.
A BAY OF NATIVITY SCENES
Beyond the excursions, the Gulf of the Island offers a unique itinerary featuring both artistic and traditional nativity scenes, often linked to the sea and the world of fishing. In Vezzi Portio, one of Italy’s leading nativity artists, Master Marco Pastorino, has created a work that faithfully depicts the local landscape. Visitors can admire stone houses with tiled roofs, early 20th-century farms complete with a courtyard where animals roam, and dry stone walls painted with natural earth tones, reminiscent of ancient times. The scene also includes mechanical elements, such as day and night effects. The popular nativity scene, located in the San Bernardo Oratory next to the Portio church, is open until 6th January (Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 3 PM to 7 PM).
In Noli, the Dominae Naulenses Association and Knights of the White Weapon present a nativity scene that merges the glorious history of the Maritime Republic with contemporary times, offering an artistic installation that invites reflection on the meaning of Christmas. This nativity scene, hosted in the premises of the pharmacy at Corso Italia 9, within the former autonomous holiday company, is open for visits until 12th January from 3 PM to 6 PM (weekdays) or 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM (weekends and public holidays). It is divided into three different settings: the first inspired by Noli with the castle, bishop’s palace, and ancient village; the central part evokes ancient Galilee; the third section represents the Ligurian hinterland. These environments also host a reinterpretation of the Christmas tree, guiding visitors on a journey through its significance, from the original Nativity to the modern celebration, highlighting the contrast between consumerism and war-ravaged regions.
In Bergeggi, on Sunday 15th December, the captivating Living Nativity will bring the alleys of the village to life: around a hundred costumed figures, including children from Bergeggi’s nursery and primary schools, will enact scenes of daily life and crafts of the era. The event, organized by L’Îzua ODV in collaboration with Proloco Bergeggi and Circolo Ricreativo Bergeggino, is free with mandatory booking for the two scheduled sessions (5 PM and 5:20 PM).
In Spotorno, the spread-out nativity scenes return, complemented by an exhibition of Nativity scenes by renowned artists at Sala Palace CSC Pontorno from 25 December to 6 January. On Friday, 27 December, a special event for both adults and children will take place: a Christmas lantern walk among the nativity scenes, starting at 8 PM from the Oratory of Saint Catherine.
For information and bookings: Casa del Turismo Spotorno 019745379 – 3914824031