Bonassola is a small village overlooking the Gulf of the Liguria coast of Levante, nestled between the headlands of Punta del Carlino and the little church of Madonnina della Punta.
Walking through Bonassola, you can admire the many beautiful features that characterise this small village, enhanced by the magical meeting between the green Mediterranean maquis and the shades of the crystal-clear sea.
What to see in Bonassola
Among the pastel-coloured façades of the characteristic houses, many wonders are hidden in the narrow streets of the historic centre. If you want to spend a day in Bonassola, we have prepared a list of the things to see and visit at your leisure:
- Church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria
- Palazzo Paganetto
- Palazzo Vinzoni
- Bonassola Castle
And now let's set off together to discover the most distinctive places in Bonassola!
Church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria
Built in the first half of the 16th century, it was almost completely transformed from the 17th century onwards, which is why it features numerous Baroque frescoes that provide a backdrop for works of art by famous artists such as Pietro Costa, Antonio Discovolo and Giovanni Battista Carlone.
Palazzo Paganetto
Built in the 18th century, it is one of the most characteristic buildings in Bonassola. What makes it so distinctive are the painted decorations on the façades and the finely frescoed vaults.
Palazzo Vinzoni
Dating back to the 16th century, it was home to Matteo Vinzoni, an ancient cartographer of the Republic of Genoa, as shown by an old plaque affixed to the main entrance. The façade is particularly striking, enriched by a marble statue depicting an unusual crowned Madonna holding a book in her hands.
Bonassola Castle
Built in the 16th century to protect citizens from pirate attacks, it was transformed in the 19th century. The only element that has survived to the present day is the clock tower.
What to do in Bonassola - the Slow Active Tours proposal
If you feel like visiting this spectacular village, we have prepared a list of the best things to do in Bonassola that you absolutely cannot miss!
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Madonnina della Punta
About a fifteen-minute walk from the village centre lies a fairytale setting where you can clear your mind and immerse yourself in the enchanting colours of the sea. This is the Sanctuary of Madonnina della Punta, built towards the end of the 17th century by the Poggi family. The portico that makes it so picturesque was added only later.
We recommend reaching the headland at sunset, when you can admire the colours of the sea reflecting the soft hues of the setting sun. -
Salto della Lepre
From the Sanctuary of Madonnina della Punta, you can reach, via a staircase, a panoramic viewpoint immersed in the colours of nature. Its curious name comes from a legend according to which a hare chose to leap into the void rather than be captured by a hunter who was chasing it.
The enchanting and unspoilt beauty of this place contrasts slightly with the gun emplacements still visible in the rock. But the feeling of bewilderment lasts only a few seconds, just enough time to let your gaze follow the cliff as it plunges into the turquoise waters of the Ligurian coast. -
A walk between sea and history
Bonassola's long beaches are peaceful and clean, making them ideal for a refreshing walk or a relaxing stop by the sea while exploring the village.
To the east you will find the rocks, perfect if you want to savour the stronger scent of the sea, while to the west, pebbles in a variety of colours are scattered along the shoreline: treat yourself to a barefoot walk and let the smooth stones shaped by the movement of the sea gently caress your feet. -
Trekking in the Cinque Terre and Portofino
In the shade of Bonassola's characteristic and picturesque houses begins an incredible walking journey that we at Slow Active Tours offer you to discover its hidden secrets and most characteristic views, following an enchanting trekking route through the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, and along the Ligurian Riviera di Levante.
Are you reading this article and can't wait to visit Bonassola and Liguria?
Discover our travel proposals and set off on your next adventure!
Stationary trekking in Liguria
Self-guided walking holiday
Exploring Liguria
Cinque Terre and Portofino trekking
Festivals and Popular Events in Bonassola
Various events dedicated to local folklore are deeply rooted in this idyllic village.
We recommend immersing yourself in the wonderful atmosphere of the Festa di Santa Caterina, celebrated on 25 November, to fully appreciate the strong identity of the local community. On this occasion, memorabilia brought to Bonassola by sailors over the years is displayed, and these objects are now the property of the Church.
Traditional Dishes of Bonassola
Bonassola offers traditional products from Ligurian and La Spezia cuisine, but it is particularly known for its cheeses and pasteurised milk, rich in flavour and quality. The area is also home to a highly prized variety of olive oil: Olio Riviera di Levante DOP, produced thanks to the olive trees that you can admire while trekking through Bonassola and its surrounding countryside.
Eating and Drinking in Bonassola
Here are some local suggestions:
Degli Aranci at Via Gino Daneri 53. Authentic cuisine and generous portions are the hallmark of this delightful restaurant. Everything is accompanied by excellent house wine and friendly staff to make every meal enjoyable. Recommended if you are looking for a great mixed fried seafood platter – you won't regret it.
Ristorante Antica Guetta at Via Marconi, 1. With a wide selection of wines and very fresh seafood, Ristorante Antica Guetta wins the hearts of all its diners. Its main strengths are undoubtedly the freshness of the ingredients and the quality with which they are handled and prepared.
Ristorante Perballe at Piazza S. Francesco, 5. An elegant and intimate restaurant providing the setting for excellent seafood cuisine. Its main speciality is undoubtedly raw seafood paired with bold and innovative flavours. The delicious desserts are also absolutely worth trying.
So, what are you waiting for? Backpack on and let's go!
