Laigueglia: Coast, History and Hill Trails

Laigueglia combines the coast, historic architecture and trails in the hills. The town has a golden sandy beach, a historic center with a maritime character, and a network of trails for trekking and cycling. If you are looking for a hotel in Laigueglia, you can start planning your trip by considering whether the beach, architectural history or scenery along the hill trails should take center stage.

Coast and Maritime Townscape

The coastal scenery includes a golden sandy beach and clear sea. In the historic center, seaward-facing piazzette and caruggi in the characteristic architecture of a seafaring village shape the townscape. Laigueglia therefore offers different points of interest: the coast and the maritime character of the town center. A promenade connects Laigueglia with Alassio, providing a named link between the two towns.

Architectural History by the Sea

The Chiesa di San Matteo is a religious building in the Ligurian Baroque style, with works of art from the 17th century. The Bastione di Levante is the only surviving tower from Laigueglia’s 16th-century defensive structures. The Baluardo di Levante was built in 1564 and also served as a prison and a lazaretto for sailors under quarantine. These details span sacred art and the Baroque period, as well as the former use of a building for prisoners and sailors in quarantine.

The Cappella della Madonna delle Penne also has a maritime connection: it was built by Catalan coral fishermen. A ceremony for sailors and fishermen is held there on August 5. The chapel’s builders and the occasion for the ceremony root it in Laigueglia’s seafaring history, while the Chiesa di San Matteo represents a different cultural and historical focus, with its artistic period and works from the 17th century.

Trails for Trekking and Cycling

Laigueglia has a network of trails and connections suitable for trekking and cycling. One specific route is Route 23 of the Sentiero Liguria: this scenic high trail runs between Albenga and Andora, above Laigueglia. The hill trails pass through fragrant Mediterranean maquis and offer views over the Gulf. Each detail highlights something different: the network of trails is suited to trekking and cycling, Route 23 is a named high trail between two towns, and the hill trails offer maquis and views of the Gulf.

Local Specialties

Balette di San Maté have been part of festivities in Laigueglia for more than thirty years and are officially recognized in the DE.CO. register as part of the town’s gastronomic heritage. They are prepared at the Pro Loco stand, which welcomes visitors, during the Fiera di San Matteo. Marunsin, by contrast, are almond biscuits from Laigueglia made with almonds, flour, sugar and orange blossom water. The two specialties offer different ways to explore the local food culture: Balette are associated with festivities and the fair, while Marunsin can be described by their ingredients.

Discover more destinations: Ceriale, Villanova D'albenga, Stella, Piani, Tovo San Giacomo, Borghi, Millesimo, Altare

For the broader travel overview: Savona.