News from the Riviera - News & lifestyle in Riviera

West Liguria confirms its excellence with Blue Flags 2025

Once again, Liguria proves itself a top coastal destination: for the 16th consecutive year, it leads Italy with the highest number of Blue Flag beaches. In the 2025 edition of the prestigious international recognition awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Liguria secured 33 Blue Flag municipalities, reaffirming its position as the region with the cleanest and most environmentally sustainable coastline in the country.

Balzi Rossi (Ventimiglia) – Credits: Corriere della Sera

What is the Blue Flag?

The Blue Flag is an internationally recognized award given to coastal locations that meet strict environmental, quality, and safety criteria. The evaluation process takes into account the cleanliness of the water, waste management, sustainable tourism initiatives, accessible beaches, and the presence of lifeguards and safety measures. Only those municipalities that demonstrate consistent dedication to environmental protection and public services are honored with this recognition.

West Liguria shines again

In this year’s list, West Liguria once again plays a starring role. Towns like San Remo, Ospedaletti, Bordighera, Riva Ligure, Santo Stefano al Mare, Imperia, San Lorenzo al Mare, and Cipressa proudly renew their Blue Flag status, confirming their reputation for excellence along the Italian Riviera. These are not only seaside destinations of remarkable beauty but also places offering a high quality of life, where traditional Ligurian charm meets modern services and a vibrant cultural and gastronomic scene.

In addition to the main towns of West Liguria, several coastal destinations in the province of Savona and beyond have been reconfirmed or newly added. Albenga, Loano, Andora, Finale Ligure, Spotorno, Laigueglia, Noli, and Varazze are just a few of the towns helping to form a coastline that is both breathtaking and environmentally respected.

Blue Flag ports in West Liguria

And the excellence extends beyond the shoreline. Some of the most important marinas of West Liguria have also been awarded the Blue Flag in 2025. Among them is PortoSole in Sanremo, one of the largest and most prestigious tourist ports in the Mediterranean, known for its elegance and first-class facilities. Joining it are the Marina degli Aregai in Santo Stefano al Mare, the Marina di San Lorenzo, the Tourist Port of Bordighera, and the Marina di Alassio. All of these ports have been recognized for their environmental management, safety measures, and high-quality services. These marinas not only enhance the region’s appeal for yacht owners and sea lovers but also contribute to the broader commitment to responsible coastal development.

Italy’s Blue Flag 2025 rankings by region

Liguria’s leadership is even more significant when placed in the national context. Italy saw a record 236 municipalities and 81 marinas receiving the Blue Flag in 2025. Liguria remains firmly in first place with 33 recognitions, ahead of Puglia (27), Calabria (23), Campania and Marche (both with 20), and Tuscany (19). This result reflects a long-term vision, where environmental policy is fully integrated into regional identity, creating value for both residents and investors.

Why it matters for property buyers

For international and Italian buyers looking to invest in real estate along the Italian Riviera, the Blue Flag designation is more than just a label, it’s a guarantee of environmental quality, safety, and long-term value. Owning a property in a Blue Flag municipality means enjoying pristine surroundings, clean waters, and sustainable living.

At LiguriaHomes Casamare, we proudly represent some of the finest properties in these award-winning areas, offering our clients access to a lifestyle that is truly second to none.

Explore life on Liguria’s most prized coastline

Whether you’re dreaming of a sea view apartment in Sanremo, a romantic villa in Bordighera, or a traditional home in the charming village of Ospedaletti, our team is here to help you find the perfect property in the heart of Italy’s most awarded coastline.

👉 Browse our properties and discover why life in West Liguria is truly Blue Flag living at its best.

International Buyers lead 2024 Liguria Property Market as global interest in Italian Riviera grows

The property market in West Liguria, Italy, has once again confirmed its enduring appeal, with international buyers making up 54% of all property transactions in 2024, outpacing Italian buyers (46%) and reflecting a growing global appetite for real estate in this stunning coastal region.

According to the our latest analysis the top international buyers in 2024 hailed from Germany, France, Russia, Poland, United States, Sweden, the Netherlands, Principality of Monaco, Bulgaria, and Norway. This trend underscores Liguria’s increasing prominence as a prime Mediterranean destination for second-home investment and relocation.

“The Liguria property market remained strong in 2024, with continued demand from international buyers drawn to its exceptional climate, quality of life, and year-round appeal,” said Matteo Scandolera, Managing Partner of LiguriaHomes Casamare and official representative of Hamptons International Private Office in Liguria. “Our region offers a rare blend of natural beauty, lifestyle, and accessibility – especially given its proximity to Nice Airport and comparatively affordable property prices.”

Despite global economic headwinds and high credit costs, West Liguria has seen a steady rise in property values, largely driven by the limited availability of real estate. This scarcity continues to offset potential challenges and maintain price growth. Looking forward, a gradual but consistent price increase is anticipated, spurred by projected interest rate cuts and the ongoing demand from international markets.

Foreign Buyers Spend More Than Domestic Buyers

An analysis of the average purchase price over the past seven years highlights a consistent trend: foreign buyers invest significantly more than their Italian counterparts. In 2024, the average purchase by an international client exceeded €500,000, compared to approximately €370,000 for Italian buyers. This gap underscores the premium international clients are willing to pay for quality properties in sought-after locations – especially along the coast, in historic villages, or in exclusive towns like Alassio, Bordighera, and Sanremo.

“This purchasing power not only sustains the local market but also elevates its profile globally,” adds Scandolera. “It’s a testament to the perceived and real value of investing in Liguria.”

Strategic Expansion in Alassio

In response to this growing demand, LiguriaHomes Casamare proudly announces the opening of its sixth office in Alassio, one of the most prestigious destinations on the Italian Riviera. Known for its golden beaches, vibrant lifestyle, and refined charm, Alassio is a natural next step in the group’s mission to serve both local and international clientele with excellence.

“This expansion further solidifies our position as the leading real estate group in Liguria,” says Scandolera. “With a deep-rooted presence across the region, we are uniquely positioned to connect discerning buyers with the finest properties on the Riviera.”

A Global Vision Through Partnership with Hamptons

The global reach of LiguriaHomes Casamare is further strengthened through its strategic partnership with Hamptons, one of the world’s most respected names in luxury real estate. In 2024, the launch of the Hamptons International Private Office marked a significant milestone, enabling tailored, white-glove services for high-net-worth clients seeking distinctive properties worldwide.

LiguriaHomes Casamare proudly showcased the elegance, authenticity, and investment potential of West Liguria within this global platform, reinforcing its role as a trusted ambassador of Italian excellence.

About LiguriaHomes Casamare

With over 30 years of experience and a network of six offices across West Liguria – including San Remo, Bordighera, Ospedaletti, Imperia, Santo Stefano al Mare, and now Alassio – LiguriaHomes Casamare offers unrivaled market insight, multilingual service, and international reach through its exclusive partnership with Hamptons. The agency continues to lead the market in luxury and second-home property sales across the Italian Riviera.

Matteo Scandolera

matteo@liguriahomes.com

San Remo Music Festival 2025: Celebrating 75 years of Musical Excellence

The 75th edition of the San Remo Music Festival, scheduled from February 11 to 15, 2025, at the iconic Teatro Ariston, promises to be a landmark event in Italian musical heritage.

A Rich Tradition

Since its establishment in 1951, the San Remo Music Festival (Festival della Canzone Italiana di Sanremo) has played a central role in shaping Italy’s musical heritage, introducing a lot of artists who have become icons. The festival also served as the inspiration for the Eurovision Song Contest, with many San Remo winners representing Italy on the global stage.

What to Expect from the 2025 Edition

Under the artistic direction and hosting of Carlo Conti, returning after his previous tenures, the festival will feature 30 established artists in the “Campioni” category and reintroduce the “Nuove Proposte” section with four emerging talents.

Participants and Performances

This year’s lineup includes a blend of seasoned performers and rising stars, each presenting original compositions. Notable participants include:

Achille Lauro: Known for his eclectic style, blending pop, rock, and punk elements.
Giorgia: Celebrating over three decades in music, her return to the Ariston stage is highly anticipated.
Francesca Michielin: A versatile artist who previously represented Italy at Eurovision.
Massimo Ranieri: A legendary figure with a career spanning several decades.

Each evening will feature performances evaluated by both jury members and the viewing public, culminating on the final night where the winner will be announced.

Hosts and Co-Hosts

Carlo Conti will be accompained by various co-hosts throughout the festival’s five nights, including:

Katia Follesa: A celebrated comedian and television presenter, expected to bring her signature humor to the Ariston stage.
Geppi Cucciari: Celebrated for her wit and charm, anticipated to co-host one of the evenings.
Serena Rossi: An talented actress and singer, whose presence is expected to enhance the festival’s appeal.
Mahmood: The acclaimed singer-songwriter, known for his previous Sanremo victories, rumored to co-host one of the nights.
Alessandro Cattelan: Confirmed as the co-host for the final night, also leading the “DopoFestival” segment.

These co-hosts bring diverse talents, contributing to a dynamic and engaging festival experience.

Special Guests

Although the festival traditionally features a range of special guests, official announcements regarding international or Italian artists for the 2025 edition are yet to be confirmed. Speculations suggest potential appearances by prominent figures, but for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to refer to official festival communications.

Cultural and Economic Impact

Beyond its musical acclaim, the San Remo Music Festival significantly boosts local tourism and the economy. The influx of visitors during the festival period benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, while extensive media coverage highlights the charm of San Remo and the broader Ligurian Riviera.

Discover San Remo with LiguriaHomes Casamare

As proud members of the Sanremo community, LiguriaHomes Casamare invites you to immerse yourself in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. Our Sanremo real estate office, located near the Teatro Ariston, is open to assist you in exploring the unique lifestyle and opportunities this enchanting city offers.

Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a prospective homebuyer, or a visitor seeking to experience San Remo’s cultural richness, we welcome you to discover the allure of the Italian Riviera with us.

For more information, feel free to visit our website: www.liguriahomes.com

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

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.
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.
Stable Temperatures: The annual temperature variation is minimal, with a stable and comfortable climate year-round, ideal for outdoor activities and events.

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Sardenaira and Torta di Verdura: A Culinary Journey Through the West Liguria Riviera

Today, we invite you to discover two traditional dishes that embody the true essence of West Liguria cuisine: Sardenaira and Torta di Verdura.

Sardenaira: A Treasure of Liguria Cuisine

Sardenaira has ancient roots and is believed to be influenced by a blend of Provençal cuisine and Neapolitan pizza. However, it has acquired its own distinctive identity in Liguria, where it has become a true symbol of traditional cuisine. It can be enjoyed both as an appetizer and as a full meal, either cold or freshly baked. While it resembles pizza, its texture and taste are closer to focaccia.

Ingredients and Preparation
The base of Sardenaira is a leavened dough, similar to that of pizza but with some key differences. The ingredients for a perfect Sardenaira include tomato sauce, anchovies, black olives, and garlic. These are arranged on a thick, soft dough and baked until golden to ensure the crust’s crispiness.