Liguria is a small region, yet it remains one of Italy’s most visited destinations. Here, nestled along the coast, lie peaceful villages where global icons and everyday travelers alike retreat in search of a quiet escape.
If you find yourself in Liguria, don’t miss Varigotti — a picturesque coastal town featuring a truly unique beach. Below, AdmiGram.com highlights why this shore ranks among the world’s finest, accompanied by stunning photographs.
Varigotti — A Hidden Gem in Northern Italy
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Liguria lies on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, known for its clean, pebble beaches (the Riviera). To the west, the region borders France, and the famous French city of Nice is not far away. In the eastern part of Liguria lies Cinque Terre National Park.
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The most famous and photographed landmarks in Liguria are Cinque Terre National Park and the hidden gem of the Italian coast, the town of Varigotti, located in the western part of the region.
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This picturesque place gained wider recognition in the early 2000s, when a series of striking landscape photographs of the town began circulating online, drawing attention to its extraordinary beauty.
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The history of this tiny town dates back to ancient times. The settlement, known as Varicottis, has existed since late antiquity and later became part of the Byzantine Empire.
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Over the centuries, these lands found themselves caught between a rock and a hard place: Saracen pirates on one side and the noble Del Carretto family on the other made peaceful life difficult for local residents in the 12th century. Varigotti gained greater autonomy in later centuries, as control of the region shifted through the Republic of Genoa and eventually into unified Italy.
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The row of houses along the beach is the most photogenic sight in Varigotti, especially when the sea is stormy. It’s worth stopping to admire the architectural details up close — and just a short distance away, entirely new perspectives of the village open up.
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To avoid crowded beaches packed with sunbeds and umbrellas, visit outside the peak season of June through August. Even so, weekends can get busy whenever the weather is sunny, so weekday visits are your best bet for a quieter experience.
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The broader area around Varigotti is known as Finalese, named after the nearby town of Finale Ligure — well known among European climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. This region is famous for its natural beauty, mild climate, and excellent conditions for rock climbing and hiking. It’s also a fantastic spot for photography.
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If you’re driving toward the French Riviera, consider staying overnight in Varigotti. This scenic village sits roughly 85 miles (135 km) west of Cinque Terre and just 50 miles (80 km) from Portofino. As you continue onward to France, you’re guaranteed to take away unforgettable memories.
image on top: varigottiofficial via Instagram
