Bishops' Road

Excursions in Liguria are renowned for their stunning views and picturesque locations and the trail that connects Spotorno to Noli is no different: it unravels through rolling hills overlooking the sea and breath-taking views. Actually, up to 1817, the year Via Aurelia was built, this was not just any trail but the main road connecting these two beautiful towns.

The hike starts at the coach parking between Spotorno and Noli and the trail begins with a fairly steep stretch of paved road that runs along Casa al Mare dell'Incoronata's park, former Villa Ada, which dates back to the early 1900s and is quite distinctive for its "eclectic" style and red colour.

After this uphill road, before proceeding to the Chiariventi region, you will be able to enjoy a breath-taking view of the gulf of Spotorno and the Bergeggi island. Surrounded by olive trees and scents of the Mediterranean scrub, you will reach the crossroads for Castle of Monte Ursino which you can go and see by taking a short detour.

You then get to the white chapel of N.S. dell'Addolorata, which is set on a rock overlooking the sea and the fifteenth-century Bishop's Palace with the sixteenth-century church of Nostra Signora delle Grazie that had been the Bishops' residence for over 500 years and is now converted into a hotel with a starred restaurant.

Before coming down to Noli, take another look at its bay and Capo Noli cape, chosen by Captain de Albertis to build his hermitage.