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Whale Watching in Liguria: A Unique Summer Experience on the Italian Riviera

Photo credit: Visit Bordighera

There are experiences that reveal the Italian Riviera from a different perspective. Whale watching in Liguria is one of them.

From the coast, Western Liguria is often admired for its pastel towns, elegant seafront promenades, historic villas, beaches, cycling paths and hillside villages. But just beyond the harbours of Andora, Imperia and San Remo, the Ligurian Sea opens onto a marine world of surprising depth and beauty.

For families, nature lovers and international visitors discovering this part of Italy, a whale watching excursion is more than a summer activity. It is a reminder of what makes the Liguria lifestyle so special: direct contact with the sea, a mild Mediterranean climate, authentic local experiences and a coastline where everyday life remains closely connected to nature.

Whale Watching in Western Liguria

The charm of whale watching lies in its simplicity. You leave the harbour, the coast slowly moves into the background, and the open sea becomes the centre of attention.

There are no guaranteed sightings, and this is part of the experience. Dolphins and whales are wild animals, moving freely through a vast marine area. The real value of the excursion is the chance to observe the sea with patience and respect, while discovering one of the most important natural habitats in the Mediterranean.

For those looking at property for sale in Liguria, this kind of activity helps explain why the region is so attractive. Western Liguria is not only about beaches and beautiful towns. It offers a way of life where nature, culture and everyday comfort are closely connected.

Departures from Andora, Imperia and San Remo

Whale watching excursions are usually available from several points along the coast, including Andora, Imperia and San Remo.

Andora is ideal for families who want to combine the experience with a relaxed day by the sea. Imperia offers a strong maritime identity, with its ports and seafront atmosphere. San Remo adds the charm of one of the best known towns on the Italian Riviera, with its promenade, marina, cycle path and elegant town centre.

This variety of departure points makes whale watching easy to include in a summer stay along the coast.

The Pelagos Sanctuary and the Cetaceans of the Ligurian Sea

The waters off Liguria are part of the Pelagos Sanctuary for Mediterranean Marine Mammals, an international protected marine area created by Italy, France and the Principality of Monaco.

The Sanctuary includes the Ligurian Sea and is recognised for the regular presence of several cetacean species, including dolphins, sperm whales and fin whales. This makes whale watching in Liguria not just a tourist activity, but a way to discover a marine ecosystem of real importance.

For this reason, excursions should always be approached with respect for the animals and their environment.

The Italian Riviera Lifestyle, Beyond Summer

Whale watching is a seasonal experience, but the lifestyle it represents belongs to Western Liguria all year round.

Living or owning a second home here means having access to the sea, coastal walks, open air activities, historic villages, local food, mild winters and authentic Mediterranean landscapes. Whether it is a sea view apartment in San Remo, a villa near Imperia or a holiday home close to Andora, homes for sale on the Italian Riviera offer much more than a place to stay.

They offer access to a way of life.

Discover Homes for Sale on the Italian Riviera

At LiguriaHomes Casamare & Hamptons, we help Italian and International buyers discover Western Liguria through its properties, towns and lifestyle.

Whether you are looking for a second home by the sea, a villa with panoramic views or a long term investment on the Italian Riviera, our team can guide you with local expertise and an international approach.

Liguria, Italy’s Blue Flag Leader Once Again

Once again, Liguria confirms its position as one of Italy’s finest coastal destinations. In the 2026 edition of the Blue Flag awards, Italy reached a record 257 awarded municipalities, with 84 more beaches recognised compared to the previous year.

Liguria remains firmly in first place with 35 Blue Flag municipalities, ahead of Puglia and Calabria (27 each), Campania (20), Marche (20) and Tuscany (19). This achievement reflects a long term commitment to environmental quality, sustainable tourism and coastal management, factors that continue to strengthen the region’s appeal among residents, visitors and international property buyers.

Credit: La mia Liguria

The result is particularly significant for the Italian Riviera, where the sea is not simply a summer attraction, but an essential part of local identity, daily life and long term appeal. For those looking for a second home by the sea, the Blue Flag recognition offers a clear sign of environmental quality, services and responsible coastal management.

What Does the Blue Flag Award Mean?

The Blue Flag (Bandiera Blu) is an internationally recognised environmental certification awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The programme evaluates coastal destinations based on a wide range of criteria, including water quality, environmental management, public services, sustainability initiatives, safety and accessibility.

The award is not based solely on clean water. Municipalities must demonstrate long term commitment to environmental protection, efficient waste management, sustainable mobility and the overall quality of the visitor experience. More than 30 criteria are assessed and regularly updated to reflect evolving environmental standards.

For homeowners and property investors, the Blue Flag often serves as an indicator of a well managed destination that is likely to maintain its appeal and value over time.

The Awarded Beaches of West Liguria

In 2026, West Liguria once again plays a leading role. In the province of Imperia, eight municipalities received the Blue Flag: Bordighera, San Remo, Riva Ligure, Santo Stefano al Mare, San Lorenzo al Mare, Imperia, Diano Marina and Taggia. The return of Taggia is one of the new entries of the year, further strengthening the Riviera dei Fiori among Italy’s most appreciated coastal areas.

San Remo confirms several awarded beaches, including Tre Ponti, Imperatrice, Bussana, Baia Capo Pino and Tiro a Volo, together with the prestigious Portosole marina. Bordighera, Santo Stefano al Mare, San Lorenzo al Mare, Imperia and Diano Marina also continue to represent the high standards of the western Italian Riviera.

Further along the Ponente coastline, the province of Savona also confirms its strength, with destinations such as Andora, Laigueglia, Loano, Finale Ligure, Noli, Spotorno, Celle Ligure and Varazze. Andora is another 2026 new entry, adding further value to an already highly regarded stretch of the Ligurian coast.

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Milano Sanremo 2026: la Classicissima du cyclisme sur la Riviera italienne

Credit: In punta di sellino

Chaque printemps, la Milano Sanremo marque le début de la saison des grandes classiques du cyclisme. Surnommée La Classicissima, cette course mythique relie le nord de l’Italie à la mer Méditerranée et constitue l’un des événements sportifs les plus emblématiques du calendrier international.

L’édition 2026 de la course cycliste Milan San Remo se déroulera le 21 mars, réunissant les meilleurs coureurs du monde pour près de 300 kilomètres de course, entre les plaines lombardes et les paysages spectaculaires de la Riviera italienne.

Histoire de la Milano Sanremo

La première édition de la Milano Sanremo remonte à 1907. Dès le début, cette course s’impose comme un défi exceptionnel en raison de sa longueur, qui en fait aujourd’hui encore la plus longue épreuve d’un jour du cyclisme professionnel.

Au fil des années, elle est devenue l’un des cinq « Monuments » du cyclisme mondial. Des champions légendaires comme Eddy Merckx, Gino Bartali ou Costante Girardengo ont contribué à écrire l’histoire de cette course unique.

Son surnom, La Classicissima di Primavera, reflète parfaitement son esprit, la course marque symboliquement l’arrivée du printemps sur la côte ligure.

Continue reading Milano Sanremo 2026: la Classicissima du cyclisme sur la Riviera italienne →

San Remo Music Festival 2026 Celebrates 76 Years of Italian Song

The 76th edition of the San Remo Music Festival is set to take place from 24 to 28 February 2026 at the iconic Teatro Ariston in Sanremo on the Italian Riviera. This annual event remains a cornerstone of Italian music culture, blending tradition, contemporary creativity and national pride.

Credit: SanremoDaily

A Festival Defined by Heritage and Innovation

First held in 1951, the Festival della Canzone Italiana di San Remo has become Italy’s most prestigious music competition, shaping the country’s popular music scene and inspiring international song festivals. The 2026 edition continues this legacy, bringing together established names and new voices in a week of performances, storytelling and spectacle.

Dates, Hosts and Format

San Remo 2026 will unfold over five nights from Tuesday 24 February to Saturday 28 February 2026 at the historic Ariston Theatre. Carlo Conti returns as both artistic director and lead host, flanked every night by the world-star Laura Pausini, marking her first year as a permanent co-host for the festival.

The programme maintains the classic San Remo structure:

  • 30 big artists compete with new original songs.
  • 4 artists in the “Nuove Proposte” (New Voices) category showcase emerging talent.

Voting combines public tele-voting, press and radio juries to determine rankings each night and the overall winner.

Alongside the main shows, the PrimaFestival preview series and DopoFestival talk-show segments offer deeper engagement with artists and audiences throughout the week.

Continue reading San Remo Music Festival 2026 Celebrates 76 Years of Italian Song →

Devachan Castle, San Remo

Where History Meets Timeless Elegance

Overlooking the Mediterranean from one of the most refined residential hills of San Remo, “Castello Devachan” stands as a rare testament to the city’s cosmopolitan past. More than a prestigious historic residence, it is a place where architecture, philosophy and international history converge, giving the estate a cultural depth few properties on the Italian Riviera can boast.

Devachan Castle in 1920 – Credit: Bettmann/CORBIS

The birth of an unconventional landmark

The origins of Castello Devachan date back to the late 19th century, when the estate was purchased by John Horace Savile, 5th Earl of Mexborough, an English aristocrat who had spent much of his life in India. Deeply influenced by Eastern philosophy and Buddhist thought, Savile imagined not only a residence, but a place dedicated to reflection, harmony, and spiritual balance.

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Growing Foreign Demand in Liguria: the Italian Riviera Property Market

The Italian Riviera has once again taken center stage on national television. In the latest report by PresaDiretta (Rai 3), the focus was placed on how the Ligurian coast is increasingly becoming one of the most attractive destinations for international buyers.

Credit: Presa Diretta – Rai 3

The episode, now available on RaiPlay, featured an interview with Matteo Scandolera, Managing Partner of LiguriaHomes Casamare, who shared his perspective on the rising demand from foreign clients and the growing appeal of the Riviera.

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube (in Italian only)

More than tax benefits: Why the Italian Riviera stands out

One of the key aspects highlighted in the program is the €200,000 flat tax regime for new residents, which has become an important incentive for high-net-worth individuals relocating to Italy. Yet, the reasons why the Italian Riviera is experiencing such strong demand go far beyond taxation. The region offers a mild climate throughout the year, breathtaking landscapes that combine sea and hills, a unique cultural and gastronomic heritage, and the strategic advantage of being located just minutes from the French Riviera and major European hubs.

For many international buyers, Liguria is no longer just a holiday retreat. It has become a place to establish a permanent residence, to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle, and to take advantage of the opportunities the region offers both in terms of quality of life and long-term investment.

Properties for every lifestyle

The Riviera is often associated with exclusive villas overlooking the sea, and these remain highly sought-after. But the real estate opportunities available here are far more diverse. Modern or historic apartments in vibrant coastal towns, as well as charming village houses that preserve the authentic Italian spirit, also attract a wide range of buyers. This variety ensures that Liguria appeals not only to ultra-high-net-worth individuals but also to families, professionals, and retirees who are looking for a second home or a new beginning in Italy.

A trusted voice on national television

Being chosen by Rai 3, Italy’s national broadcaster, to comment on this phenomenon was an honor and a recognition of the professional role that LiguriaHomes Casamare has played for more than 30 years. Our agency has built its reputation as a point of reference for the Riviera thanks to its extensive presence across the territory, with offices in Sanremo, Ospedaletti, Bordighera, Imperia, Santo Stefano al Mare and, soon, a new office in Alassio. Equally important is our multilingual team, able to support clients in English, French, German, Russian, Spanish and more, ensuring that every stage of the buying process is clear and seamless for international clients. This combination of local expertise, international outlook, and decades of experience has positioned LiguriaHomes Casamare as the leading real estate group on the Riviera.

LiguriaHomes Casamare: your partner for buying in the Riviera

In partnership with Hamptons International, we provide tailored advice, multilingual assistance, and a curated selection of properties across the Italian Riviera. Our mission is to help clients from all over the world find not only their ideal property but also a lifestyle that reflects the best of what Italy has to offer.

🔗 Explore our properties in the Italian Riviera


📞 +39 0184 574262
📩 info@liguriahomes.com

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