The surroundings

Westwards: Genova, 65 kms. An important Mediterranean port as well as a rich artistic city, with historical buildings, gardens and parks. After a phase of decline, the medieval centre - one of the largest in Europe - is now being restored. The art shows of Palazzo Ducale, the Aquarium, the Children Town by the old port, and important exhibitions such as 'Euroflora' have created new outlets for tourism.
Portofino, 40 kms. The houses on the seafront and the small port - one of the favourite landing places of the international jet set - are the starting-point of a series of narrow streets through the old village. Behind, among the hill's pinetrees and holm oaks, the old villas testify an élite tourism born at the beginning of '900.
Eastwards: La Spezia, 25 kms. Marine lovers can visit the Arsenal, the largest one in Italy, while ancient and modern art is well represented in Amedeo Lia Museum. Beautiful excursions in the surroundings are made possible by the numerous boats that sail across the gulf daily.
Portovenere, 35 kms. The ancient Portus Veneris is situated in a marvellous position at the extreme point of the coast defining the gulf of La Spezia. Built as a fortified town by the Genoese in 1200, it has beautiful old churches and gothic monuments.
Lucca, 90 kms. On the first slopes of the Apennines is the old town, rich in monuments and surrounded by fortified walls, almost intact. Town-planning layout is one of the best example of Renaissance architecture.
Pisa, 100 kms. One of the most well-known art centre in the world. The Campo dei Miracoli , the Cathedral, the Baptistry and the Tower are surely the most impressive monuments of romanesque art.
Firenze, 170 kms. Cradle of the Renaissance and art centre par excellence , it offers visitors buildings, monuments, churches of inestimable value, and art treasures preserved in its numerous museums. It is also an appreciated centre for a prime shopping.