San Lorenzo al Mare: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!

San Lorenzo al Mare is a charming coastal town in Liguria. Colorful houses in the Ligurian style, framed by Mediterranean plants such as macchia, pines, or palms, characterize the historic center. On the golden beaches of the small town, you can engage in water sports or explore the idyllic valleys in the hinterland.

Table of contents

San Lorenzo al Mare - Must-see attractions
San Lorenzo al Mare - Secret spots
San Lorenzo al Mare - In 3 days

San Lorenzo al Mare - Must-see attractions

San Lorenzo al Mare - Holiday homes & apartments

Italy San Lorenzo al Mare seaside landscape

Beach of San Lorenzo al Mare

The beach of San Lorenzo al Mare is located right by the picturesque center of the village of the same name near the city of Imperia in the Italian region of Liguria. The entire region is characterized by idyllic rocky coves with small sand and pebble beaches. Due to its central location, the beach offers good amenities with loungers and umbrellas, as well as cafes, bars, and restaurants. It consists of the typical combination of rock, sand, and pebbles, allowing for a great bathing experience.

Coastal cycle path

The coastal bike path runs from San Lorenzo al Mare to Ospedaletti and is one of the longest continuous coastal bike paths in the Mediterranean region. The route is characterized by its flat profile and runs mostly parallel to the sea with fantastic views. Along the way, many beautiful beaches invite you to take a break with a refreshing dip in the sea. But the small coastal villages you pass along the way are also worth a stroll or a break with a delicious Italian ice cream.

Free Beach of Ponente

San Lorenzo al Mare is located on the so-called Riviera of Flowers, the section between Imperia and Ventimiglia. The town is known for its Libera beach, which curves in a crescent shape from the Molo del Cerbero to the Molo della Prima Punta. At Bagni U Nustromu, you can rent a lounger with an umbrella to make your stay by the sea particularly pleasant. By bicycle, you can reach the coastal city of Sanremo, where the famous Festival della Canzone Italiana takes place annually.

Marina of Aregai

The Marina degli Aregai is more than just a marina: here you can play sports, relax, or enjoy something delicious in one of the restaurants. In addition, there is also a diving center and a private beach. From the marina, you can reach the coastal bike path "Pista Ciclabile della Liguria," which runs from Ospedaletti in the west to San Lorenzo in the east. Take a trip to coastal communities like the famous Sanremo or the tranquil Riva Ligure.

Capo Mimosa-Rollo

With its small sandy beach and the inland wooded hills of the Parco comunale del Ciapà, Capo Mimosa-Rollo delights both beach vacationers and hiking enthusiasts alike. You have magnificent views of the Ligurian Sea from the hills of the hinterland. You can make your stay in Capo Mimosa-Rollo varied with a trip to Imperia, 11.8 km away, as the capital of the province of the same name. There, you can visit the Art Nouveau villa Grock or immerse yourself in the cultural history of the olive at the Museo dell’Olivo Carlo Carli.

Villa Biener

Villa Biener is a top attraction near San Lorenzo al Mare. This contemporary art emerged from the will of two artists who view their home as an open space. Take a deep breath and enter an amazing world full of mosaics and other works right at the artists' location. The villa is situated in an old olive grove, on the hills of Cipressa, where the terraces overlook the sea. It is now known for hosting exhibitions, shows, and events in the field of the arts.

San Lorenzo al Mare - Secret spots

San Lorenzo al Mare - Holiday homes & apartments

The Oratory of Mercy

In the pretty coastal town of San Lorenzo al Mare on the Riviera di Ponente, the Oratory of Mercy, built in Baroque style, has developed over the years into a place of creative encounter. Musical events and art exhibitions by local artists take place in the impressive setting of the northern Italian oratory.

Bai delle Vele Beach

The Spiaggia Baia delle Vele stretches shallowly along the Ligurian Riviera di Ponente. The finest pebbles form the foundation of the 160-meter small beach, which gently slopes into the clear water in the northern Italian resort of San Lorenzo al Mare. Those who enjoy sports can surf beyond the breakwater over the deep blue Mediterranean Sea.

Church of Saint Mary Magdalene

This church enjoys a privileged location near the sea. Its mighty form stands proudly facing the waves. Inside, you can admire fine frescoes and a large wooden choir with 11 panels. The church is closely linked to a legend about Mary Magdalene, which says that her raft landed on the beach of San Lorenzo, where the church was later built.

Cetacean Sanctuary

For nature and animal lovers, a whale watching tour in the "Cetacean Sanctuary" is recommended. This marine area, established by Italy, France, and Monaco, is home to eight species of whales and is particularly rich in pelagic life. It is one of the most important areas in the entire Mediterranean basin for whale populations.

San Lorenzo al Mare - In 3 days

San Lorenzo al Mare - Holiday homes & apartments

Day 1

On the first day, let the charm of the two town centers of San Lorenzo al Mare take effect on you. In the tranquil coastal town, you stroll through typically winding alleys past brightly painted houses alternating with natural stone walls. Palms, gnarled olive trees, and walls overgrown with colorful bougainvillea contribute to the town's charm. From the car-free old town, almost all paths lead to the marina. There stands the baroque church of Santa Maria Maddalena, which traces back to a late medieval predecessor. Its bell tower resembles a lighthouse and serves as a landmark for sailors. Artworks by Giovanni Battista Casanova and Tommaso Carrega, as well as anonymous artists, adorn the interior. The ceiling vaults, richly decorated with stucco in sky blue, white, and gold, are impressive. After a stroll along the harbor promenade to the rotunda, you end the day at one of the public beaches or at Bagni "U Nustromu."

Day 2

The cycle path runs along the coast. Hop on a bike and enjoy the well-developed car-free road, once a railway line. You can rent bicycles at many places along the coast. In the shade of trees and with a view of the sea, the route is a real pleasure. You ride about 36 kilometers northeast to Alassio, where you can treat yourself to a delicious gelato in an ice cream parlor in the charming old town. Or you head west and reach Sanremo after a good 17 kilometers. Here you can visit the Floriseum flower museum, located in a lush blooming park. Here and at the flower market beats the heart of the Riviera dei Fiori. The Russian Orthodox Church, with its gilded onion domes reflecting the Ligurian sun, seems like something from another world. Stairs lead into the mountain to the remarkable old town "La Pigna" with fountains, statues, and charming little shops.

Day 3

A bike tour to the forest-rich surroundings of San Lorenzo al Mare is also worthwhile. About 4 kilometers northwest, you reach the Fortezza del Gallinaro. Take a break at the historic fortress. While the children enjoy the playground, you can try out the public fitness equipment or refresh yourself at the picnic area and enjoy the view. Just under 2 kilometers further east, you reach Costarainera with the remarkable Church of Saint Anthony in the shadow of two mighty cypresses. Follow the road along the cemetery, and you will reach the Oratorio di San Sebastiano. Only some wall remains and archways of the building stand amidst dense vegetation. If you love lost places, the atmosphere will captivate you. Continue your journey to the old town of Lingueglietta, where excellent restaurants await you alongside a historical museum. From here, San Lorenzo al Mare lies at your feet.

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