Welcome to the Cycling Riviera

Discovering the Cycling Riviera: a unique way to explore Liguria

Liguria, a wonderful region known for its Mediterranean landscapes and unique micro-climate, is not just a dream destination for sun and food lovers but also a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. The Cycling Riviera provides a fantastic opportunity to discover the beautiful coastline, picturesques villages, and panoramic landscapes while staying active and eco-friendly. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner looking for a relaxed ride, the Ligurian coast has something to offer everyone.

The Cycling Riviera: What to Expect

The Cycling Riviera in Liguria is a 27 km dedicated cycling route that runs along the stunning coastline, built on the ex railway line that once connected coastal towns. This makes for a flat, easy-to-ride path, perfect for cyclists of all levels. Starting from the bustling town of Ospedaletti and continuing through to San Remo, and other charming coastal villages up to Imperia, the route offers spectacular views of the Ligurian Sea, lush vegetation, and charming towns.

Currently, work is underway to continue the cycle path first to Diano Marina and then to Cervo, San Bartolomeo al mare, up to the new Andora station; at that point, the cycle path will be over 40 km long, making it one of the longest in Europe.

One of the highlights of the Cycling Riviera is the perfect blend of cycling and sightseeing. Along the route, riders can stop to enjoy pristine beaches, sample local cuisine, or visit historic sites. The route is also well-equipped with facilities such as bike rental stations, rest stops, and cafes, making it an ideal option for a day trip or even a multi-day cycling adventure.

Key Stops Along the Riviera

  • Ospedaletti: The journey begins in Ospedaletti, a small coastal town known for its lovely beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can take in the Mediterranean views and enjoy the local culinary delights before beginning your ride.
  • San Remo: The cycling path takes you through the famous city of Sanremo, known for its luxury lifestyle and cultural attractions, including the annual Sanremo Music Festival. Cyclists can take a break to visit historic city center, enjoy a coffee in one of the charming squares, or explore the botanical gardens.
  • Santo Stefano al Mare: This enchanting town offers a perfect combination of history and natural beauty. Known for its olive oil production, you can take a detour to explore the ancient olive groves or visit one of the local markets to taste Liguria’s finest products.

A eco-friendly Way to Explore Liguria

Cycling is not only a great and engaging way to discover Liguria, it is also in line with the region’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The Cycling Riviera promotes eco-friendly tourism by encouraging visitors to explore the area without the use of cars, reducing traffic and pollution. Whether you are cycling for fitness, sightseeing, or simply to enjoy the fresh sea air, this route offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional forms of transportation

Plan Your Cycling Adventure

Whether you’re staying in a luxury villa or a charming seaside apartment, LiguriaHomes Casamare offers a range of properties for sale in Liguria ideally located for easy access to the Cycling Riviera. Our offices, situated in the most beautiful towns of Western Liguria, are available to help you find your dream home, so you can experience the beauty of Liguria both on and off the bike.

Ready to explore the Cycling Riviera? Contact us today at LiguriaHomes Casamare for more information about properties in the area and how you can make this cycling paradise your home.

Italy’s New Digital Nomad Visa: A Gateway to La Dolce Vita

Effective April 4, 2024, Italy has introduced a new digital nomad visa, opening doors for remote workers from outside the European Union to live and work in the country. This visa is designed for highly skilled professionals who can work remotely, offering them the opportunity to enjoy Italy’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and world-renowned lifestyle.

To qualify, applicants must meet specific income requirements, have health insurance, and be employed outside of Italy. This initiative is part of Italy’s broader efforts to attract international talent and revitalize its economy.

Key Details of the Digital Nomad Visa:

Eligibility: The visa is designed for highly-skilled professionals, including freelancers (“digital nomads”) and employees (“remote workers”), who can work remotely using technology.

Skills and Education: Applicants must have a university degree (minimum three years), an accredited professional license, or significant professional experience. Some consulates may require the education to align with the work being performed.

Work Experience: At least six months of relevant work experience is required, with up to five years for those without a degree.

Work Contract: Remote workers need to provide evidence of an employment contract or a binding job offer that requires high-level skills. Freelancers may need to provide proof of contracts or client engagements.

Criminal Background Affidavit: Remote workers must submit an affidavit from their employer confirming no convictions related to specific immigration crimes. While a criminal background check for the applicant is not explicitly required, some consulates might ask for it.

Annual Income: Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least EUR 24,789. The income should ideally be related to remote work, though requirements may vary by consulate.

Housing: Evidence of accommodation in Italy is required, which could be a lease agreement or proof of ownership. Some consulates may accept a hotel reservation or a letter of hospitality.

Health Insurance: Applicants must have medical insurance covering treatment and hospitalization in Italy. Alternatively, an affidavit committing to obtain insurance upon arrival may be accepted.

Visa Duration and Renewal: The visa is valid for one year, with the option to renew it without reapplying, once in Italy.

Where to Apply: Applications must be submitted at the Italian Consulate responsible for the applicant’s area of residency.

This visa presents a unique opportunity for digital nomads and remote workers to experience life in Italy while maintaining their professional careers.

If you’re considering relocating to Italy under this new visa, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly to ensure that you meet all the requirements and understand the implications of living and working abroad. With its unparalleled lifestyle offerings, West Liguria stands out as a premier destination for digital nomads.

West Liguria: The Best Climate in Italy According to Reports

Experience Perfect Weather Year-Round in West Liguria

The Province of Imperia, located in the picturesque West Liguria, boasts the best climate in Italy. According to a detailed report by Corriere della Sera and iLMeteo.it, which analyzed 17 parameters and over 380 million data points from 2000 to 2023, this area emerged as having the most favorable weather conditions among Italian provincial capitals.

Key Highlights of the Province of Imperia’s Climate

  1. Mild Winters and Warm Summers: The climate is characterized by mild winters and warm, sunny summers. Even in December, residents and visitors can enjoy beach outings, with Christmas often resembling a spring day.
  2. Low Cloud Cover: The area enjoys low cloud cover, with daytime cloudiness at just 30%, a figure that has remained stable for over two decades.
  3. Stable Temperatures: The annual temperature variation is minimal, with a stable and comfortable climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities and events.
Continue reading West Liguria: The Best Climate in Italy According to Reports

West Liguria Tops Blue Flags 2024

Liguria again tops the regional table with 34 blue flags

Clean waters, indeed “excellent”, pristine clear sea and beaches equipped with services, accessible to all and safe: West Liguria maintains its status as a pioneer in sustainable coastline management in 2024, shining once more as a light of environmental excellence in Italy. The Italian Riviera has successfully kept its Blue Flag certification this year, with the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in Italy, demonstrating the dedication to upholding impeccable beach standards and a superior marine environment.

Liguria is followed  from far away by Apulia (24 flags), Campania and Calabria (both with 20 flags), Marche (19 flags), Tuscany (18 flags), Sardinia (15 flags), Abruzzo (15 flags), Sicily (14 flags), Trentino (12 flags), Lazio (10 flags), Emilia Romagna and Veneto (both with 9 flags), Basilicata and Piemonte (both with 5 flags), Lombardia (3 flags), Friuli and Molise (both with 2 flags).

La Spiaggetta dei Balzi Rossi

Blue Flags are international distinctions, created in 1987, with patronage and support from UNEP, the United Nations Environment Programme, and the World Tourism Organisation, which aims to promote a sustainable development at beaches and marinas through strict criteria such as water quality, environmental management, safety and services provided close to or within the beach area. To the Blue Flag Programme participate beaches and marinas in 41 countries of all the world.

Continue reading West Liguria Tops Blue Flags 2024

Aperçu et prévisions du marché immobilier en Ligurie occidentale, Italie

Dynamiques et tendances du secteur immobilier de la Ligurie occidentale

“De 2015 à 2023, l’aperçu immobilier de la Ligurie occidentale, en Italie, a affiché une évolution convaincante de la dynamique des transactions, marquée par une interaction entre les acheteurs italiens et étrangers, et un attrait croissant pour les biens immobiliers de premier ordre de la région.” selon Matteo Scandolera, directeur général de LiguraHomes Casamare.

Au départ, le marché de la Ligurie présentait un attrait équilibré pour les clients italiens et internationaux. Cependant, un changement s’est produit au fil du temps, avec une augmentation constante des transactions internationales, renforçant la position croissante de la Ligurie occidentale sur la scène mondiale.

“Cette augmentation témoigne de la désirabilité de la Riviera italienne, motivée par son style de vie, sa culture et son potentiel d’investissement. Au fur et à mesure de l’évolution du marché, la répartition des transactions entre acheteurs italiens et étrangers s’est stabilisée, ce qui témoigne de l’attrait exercé par les différentes catégories démographiques”, note M. Scandolera.

Nouveaux développements maritimes redéfinissent le paysage côtier de la Ligurie

Récemment, des investissements ont été réalisés dans des ports de plaisance nouveaux et améliorés le long de la côte de la Riviera italienne. L’opérateur de ports de plaisance haut de gamme D-Marin a racheté deux nouvelles marinas, Marina degli Aregai, l’une des plus grandes de Ligurie avec 961 postes d’amarrage, et Marina di San Lorenzo avec 268 postes d’amarrage.

Continue reading Aperçu et prévisions du marché immobilier en Ligurie occidentale, Italie

Premier International School Opening Soon in West Liguria

The renowned international education services provider Chatsworth Schools and Marina Development Corporation (MDC), a pioneer in urban regeneration focused on regions associated with tourism ports and leisure, have announced a ground-breaking partnership. With this collaboration, an international school will soon be established on the Borgo del Forte Campus in Ventimiglia. This initiative is in line with MDC’s larger goal of reviving the Ventimiglia waterfront.

Credits: Marina Development Corporation

A key component of the area’s revitalization, this international school is expected to start in September 2026, subject to clearance from the Municipal Council. It will be a part of the renovation of the old Campasso railway yard, which will turn a 42,000 square metre area into a flourishing centre for community and education. The school is positioned as a distinctive educational destination for students from the neighbouring regions, including Genoa, Monaco and Nice, because of its strategic position behind the naturalistic area at the mouth of the Nervia River.

Up to 800 students between the ages of 3 and 18 can be accommodated on the campus in a multi-story building that is surrounded by a public park. In addition to meeting educational demands, the facility will provide substantial sporting facilities that are open to the public, such as a contemporary gym, an indoor pool and a multipurpose space for different activities.

Continue reading Premier International School Opening Soon in West Liguria