Wonderful Nature and Rich Story Finale Ligure and the Finalese have a historical tradition dating back to prehistoric times. The medieval, walled town of Finalborgo is internationally renown for its cultural and sporting activities. The splendid, newly-renovated cloisters of St.Caterina house a fine collection of prehistoric artefacts found in the various caves in the area. Above Finalborgo the imposing castle of San Giovanni stands guarding the town. While nearby there are the ruins of Gavone Castle, where the old rulers of Finale, the Marquis of Carretto, were once in residence.

Another "pearl" in this area is Borgio Verezzi. Set high amongst the olive groves and vineyards planted with rare Pigato and Vermentino varieties of wine, this town is home to the most "theatrical" little square in Italy, where famous actors perform against a backcloth of blue sea and soaring mountains.

Towards the East lies the Mediterranean hamlet of Varigotti, with its Roman warning towers built overlooking the bay, to give alert to people of Saracen pirate ships anchoring in the bay. Crossing to the other side of the steep cliffs, the small 10th century Marine Republic of Noli is reached, which was an important ally of Genoa.

 

Signs from the past can be found inland too. Walkers can choose from innumerable pathways, and come across villages like Lacrema and Montesordo. While small churches, like "Cinque Campanili" in Perti Alto, featured in the photograph, lie hidden amongst dense Mediterranean vegetation. Not forgetting the ancient Julia Augusta Roman road with its series of Roman bridges. The steep, white limestone cliffs and rocks, which overhang the sea or create the inland mountains, are well-known to not only climbers but to those who appreciate spectacular views.

Equally scenic but more relaxing is the Plateau of Le Manie, in which the vast pine forest with its scented, aromatic undergrowth provides a dramatic background to the magnificient stretch of mediterranean blue of sea and sky, which creates the unique Ligurian experience.