Bergeggi Island is a small island located off the coast of Liguria, near Spotorno, in the province of Savona. Despite its small size, it offers some very interesting experiences for those visiting the area. A visit to Bergeggi Island is an exciting adventure between nature and history. It is a limestone cone, reaching up to 53 meters in height, and is entirely covered in Mediterranean scrub flora.
Origins
Bergeggi Island is also known as the Island of Saint Eugene. Legend has it that Saint Eugene, bishop of Carthage, fleeing Christian persecution, took refuge on this small island, where a monastery was later built in his name. The saint's remains were transferred to Noli, where he became the town's patron saint, but legend has it that they mysteriously returned to Bergeggi Island, swept away by the current.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered the remains of buildings from some Ligurian populations who settled on the island in pre-Roman times. The most rewarding way to visit the island is to begin with a kayak tour around the island and dive into the caves of this nature reserve.
Get inspired
The most fascinating aspect of visiting the island of Bergeggi, located just 200 meters from the coast, is the combination of colors: the deep blue of the sea, the vivid green of the trees, the dark gray of the rocks. A route called "Bergeggi" has been created around the island, which in ancient times was connected to the coast by a limestone rock destroyed by the waves. Blue Trail With 27 buoys preventing access to any motorized vessel, the area is accessible. However, the approximately two-kilometer route can be explored by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Kayak excursions are available upon reservation, with an expert geologist accompanying visitors inside the caves.
Bergeggi beach
While the small island itself isn't accessible due to its status as a fully protected nature reserve, Bergeggi Beach deserves a special visit. The sand is fine and the water crystal clear, ideal for swimming and relaxing, in a setting that rivals the sea and beaches of the Caribbean.
The Bergeggi Marine Park
This park is famous for its biodiversity and offers the opportunity to dive and snorkel to explore the marine flora and fauna.
Flora and fauna on the island of Bergeggi
The island is covered in typical Mediterranean vegetation, with shrubs such as rockrose and rosemary, which thrive in the hot, dry climate. Plants such as mastic, strawberry tree, and maritime pine are also found, and during the spring and summer, the island is full of colorful flowers, including wild orchids and aromatic plants. As for fauna, the island is an important stopping point for various species of migratory birds, such as gulls, sparrowhawks, peregrine falcons, and cormorants. The waters surrounding the island are home to a wide variety of invertebrates, such as sea urchins, starfish, octopus, and lobsters, as well as fish such as white bream, gilt-head bream, snapper, and tuna. It is also not uncommon to spot dolphins approaching the coast. Reptiles include small species of lizards and occasionally even non-venomous snakes.
Where to sleep
The best hotels close to the island are those in the small village of Bergeggi. These include:
- Palm Hotel: located near the beach, it offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful sea view.
- B&B L'Isola: a small bed & breakfast nearby, with cozy rooms and an excellent location.
Where to eat
Below are the most typical restaurants, trattorias, and pizzerias in the area.
- La Lanterna Restaurant: Located just steps from the sea, this restaurant offers spectacular views of the coast and serves fresh seafood dishes, such as spaghetti with clams and mixed fried fish.
- Il Timone Restaurant Pizzeria: It's an excellent choice for those seeking a more casual yet still high-quality atmosphere. Seafood, pizza, and traditional Ligurian dishes are served.
- Il Gabbiano Restaurant: It is located along the coast, and is a perfect place to enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes, with a panoramic view of the sea.
- Osteria della Piazza: With a more rustic and traditional atmosphere, this osteria is a good choice. It offers typical Ligurian dishes, such as farinata and trofie al pesto.
- Marechiaro Bar Restaurant: Ideal for a quick lunch or dinner with a view, it offers a good selection of fresh seafood dishes and appetizers.
How to Get There
The starting point, from which you can then arrive on the island, is the municipality of Bergeggi, in the province of Savona, which can be easily reached by various means of transport.
By car:
- A10 Motorway (Autostrada dei Fiori):
If you're coming from the west (seafront), you can take the A10 motorway and exit at Spotorno, which is the closest town to Bergeggi. After the exit, follow the signs for Bergeggi, which is just a few kilometers away.
- A10 motorway (eastbound):
If you're coming from the east (Genoa), exit at Noli or Spotorno and then follow the signs for Bergeggi.
By train
Bergeggi has a small train station, located on the Genoa-Ventimiglia line. If you're arriving in Savona or Albisola Superiore, you can take a train to Spotorno station and then take a taxi or bus to Bergeggi, which is about 3 kilometers away.
By bus
Bergeggi is served by buses connecting the city to Savona and other Ligurian towns. From Savona, you can take a direct bus to Bergeggi, or you can change in Spotorno.
By plane
The nearest airport is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, about 50 km from Bergeggi.
Information
For all information on the island of Bergeggi, you can visit this site:
or write to this email address:
For kayak or SUP excursions you can write to:
Photo credits cover image: Simone Bava
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