Varazze
is a pleasant resort located halfway between Genoa and
Savona. Embedded in the sparkling setting of one of the
most beautiful bays of the Riviera di Ponente, it
features excellent railway and road connections (comprising
efficient bus lines) and a proficient tourist
information office. The centre, which has been awarded
the international F.E.E.E. Blue Flag more than once,
boasts a modern marina – the cherry on the cake of a
first-rate accommodation and service system (several
hotels provide customized facilities for disabled
people). The commitment for quality is also testified by
the numberless citations of restaurants and hotels in
prestigious tourism guides – not to forget the standing
of the stabilimenti balneari siding the seaside
promenade. Varazze is the ideal destination for an active holiday
in the glory of the Mediterranean vegetation – a mosaic
of agaves, palms, citrus groves and olive trees. The
primacy refers to an array of assets. Firstly, to water
sports, which attract a host of surfing, windsurfing and
diving enthusiasts. Then to a cornucopia of artistic
resources, churches and sanctuaries witnessing the
ancient
religious
vocation of the area. Lastly, to the diversity of
natural habitats – Varazze belongs to the Parco del
Beigua territory, a treasure trove of flora and fauna
and the paradise of trekkers and mountain bikers a few
minutes’ drive from a golf club.
Watch, listen, smell: all your senses will participate
to the treasure hunt at the discovery of
Varazze’s many
facets.
The historical centre, which narrates the tale of a
seaside borgo rich in slate and architectures. The
carruggi resound with the echo of the past, and with the
memory of the glorious shipbuilding and carpentry
tradition. The place, which thrives in old-fashioned
botteghe and chic boutiques, is at its best on Saturday,
market day being very animated.
The church of San Domenico, which shrines the ashes of
the Beato Jacopo da Varagine, 13th century hagiographer
and Archbishop of Genoa.
The hamlet of Alpicella, high on the hills, which offers
the amenity of a delightful archaeological museum.
The Eremo (hermitage) del Deserto, whose construction
started in 1616 under the impulse of the religious order
of the Carmelitani Scalzi. Towards
the end of the 20th century, Varazze embarked in the
management of Lungomare Europa, a pedestrian route sheer
on the sea, which was built in the dismissed railway
area towards the Piani di Invrea. This breathtaking
Mediterranea promenade is the best place in town to walk,
cycle, skate or – why not’ – idle out in the sun.
Spring visitors (but remember, Varazze is a joy for all
seasons) you may get a chance to enjoy the solemn 30th
April procession celebrating Santa Caterina, patroness
of the place. In the 14th century, according to
tradition, she freed Varazze from the scourge of plague
with the force of her prayers.
Hotel Savoy - Lungomare Marconi 4 -
17019 - Varazze (SV) TEL +39-019 934626 FAX +39-019
932480 E-MAIL hotelsavoy@welcomeriviera.it
religious
vocation of the area. Lastly, to the diversity of
natural habitats – 
Towards
the end of the 20th century, 
