Where would we rather be today? Probably in this naturally-occurring and utterly picturesque swimming pool on the La Spezia Riviera in Liguria, that's for sure! In this new series, we will be introducing unbelievably scenic spots that cleanse the soul just by gazing at them and have us looking forward to our next getaway, whenever that may be.
This week's pick, Punta Pineda, and more particularly the Bozi di Punta Pineda (Basins of Punta Pineda), is one of those rare instances of a hidden gem that has somehow remained largely that: a mostly hidden gem. In this day and age of Instagram blowing up once little-known beauties and making them hot spots to go, be seen, and be photographed, it can be rare to stumble upon magical places that have remained within the purview of largely only locals and those in the know. This gem on the Ligurian Coast has remained a place that only gets a little coverage in the media and almost exclusively only in the Italian media. On Instagram, the tagged images here are in the hundreds, rather than the thousands. So, it seems to remain a place you might just get all to yourself when you visit and even if you don't, you'll likely only encounter some locals rather than hoards of tourists. If you have always wanted to visit the area and take in its great beauty for yourself, including this hidden gem, just browse our vacation rentals in Liguria and get planning a trip of a lifetime!
This week's pick, Punta Pineda, and more particularly the Bozi di Punta Pineda (Basins of Punta Pineda), is one of those rare instances of a hidden gem that has somehow remained largely that: a mostly hidden gem. In this day and age of Instagram blowing up once little-known beauties and making them hot spots to go, be seen, and be photographed, it can be rare to stumble upon magical places that have remained within the purview of largely only locals and those in the know. This gem on the Ligurian Coast has remained a place that only gets a little coverage in the media and almost exclusively only in the Italian media. On Instagram, the tagged images here are in the hundreds, rather than the thousands. So, it seems to remain a place you might just get all to yourself when you visit and even if you don't, you'll likely only encounter some locals rather than hoards of tourists. If you have always wanted to visit the area and take in its great beauty for yourself, including this hidden gem, just browse our vacation rentals in Liguria and get planning a trip of a lifetime!
How has such a looker stayed out of the limelight then, you might ask? Located as it is in the Cinque Terre, one of the most beloved, best-known, and most highly in-demand seaside holiday destinations in Italy, a place famous for scenic seaside villages perched on rocky cliffs, dramatic coastal scenery, and stunning jewel-toned waters, how has this particularly picturesque spot not been added to the list of must-see spots in the area? Well, it is largely an access issue. Famously difficult to reach, the Bozi di Punta Pineda have continued to be a true hidden gem as most are simply unwilling to make the trek to this pretty, natural attraction and one is unlikely to stumble across it by accident. It is a place that takes time and effort to get to, something that is not always what somebody wants to undertake while on vacation.
However, if you have found a vacation rental in the Cinque Terre and are willing for a little bit of an adventure and a bit of effort, those who visit all report that it is well worth it. Hidden in the slopes of the Tramonti villages, the Punta Pineda and its little pools (known as, “bozi,” in the local dialect) is an exclusive and unspoiled gem in the Cinque Terre that is reached by a long path made up of lots of steps and exposed stretches along the coast that are rocky and hedged by prickly pears. However, even though the journey can be mildly treacherous and difficult at times, it also boasts stunning views over the Cinque Terre coast and is far removed from hustle and bustle. Expect peace, tranquility, and only the sound of the sea as you trek along until you come to a cliff with a unique shape and which faces out onto the open sea; rocks form a natural barrier, sheltering the little outcrop from the waves, and little basins that are filled with sea water and look for all the world like a natural swimming pool.
To reach this stunning spot, start on the Litoranea road from La Spezia and head towards the Cinque Terre. Head 6km down the road, to the Biassa Tunnel, past the Biassa Gallery and the Due Gemelli restaurant. After 600m, you will see the Bar il Giardino on the left and find parking just beyond it. This is where will find an opening on the coast that leads to the path to the sea and the various stairways of Tramonti. Take the Campi stairway, which leads 260m upwards without pause and is tough going. Be sure to bring some water and to wear a hat and sunscreen as you will be exposed to the sun (a particular issue during the very hot days of the peak summer months of July and August). You should also be especially careful with your footing as the path can be very rocky and steep. On the way you will come across the cliff of Punta Castagna and the rock called Castagnola before being rewarded with one of the most evocative views on the Cinque Terrre and a wonderfully picturesque spot to spend the day by the sea, bathing in the water, snapping some photos, relaxing, and enjoying your beautiful surroundings. There is no doubt that it is a bit of a difficult journey but even less doubt that it is absolutely worth it if you are willing and able to give it a go!
So, if you have always dreamed of a vacation in the Cinque Terre, of finding a holiday villa in Liguria and exploring this stunning part of Italy, of long days by the sea, of sun, fun, and the most scenic of surroundings, then get planning your dream holiday today and make it happen. Have something to look forward to and be sure to pencil in a trip to this very special hidden gem while you are in the area!
However, if you have found a vacation rental in the Cinque Terre and are willing for a little bit of an adventure and a bit of effort, those who visit all report that it is well worth it. Hidden in the slopes of the Tramonti villages, the Punta Pineda and its little pools (known as, “bozi,” in the local dialect) is an exclusive and unspoiled gem in the Cinque Terre that is reached by a long path made up of lots of steps and exposed stretches along the coast that are rocky and hedged by prickly pears. However, even though the journey can be mildly treacherous and difficult at times, it also boasts stunning views over the Cinque Terre coast and is far removed from hustle and bustle. Expect peace, tranquility, and only the sound of the sea as you trek along until you come to a cliff with a unique shape and which faces out onto the open sea; rocks form a natural barrier, sheltering the little outcrop from the waves, and little basins that are filled with sea water and look for all the world like a natural swimming pool.
To reach this stunning spot, start on the Litoranea road from La Spezia and head towards the Cinque Terre. Head 6km down the road, to the Biassa Tunnel, past the Biassa Gallery and the Due Gemelli restaurant. After 600m, you will see the Bar il Giardino on the left and find parking just beyond it. This is where will find an opening on the coast that leads to the path to the sea and the various stairways of Tramonti. Take the Campi stairway, which leads 260m upwards without pause and is tough going. Be sure to bring some water and to wear a hat and sunscreen as you will be exposed to the sun (a particular issue during the very hot days of the peak summer months of July and August). You should also be especially careful with your footing as the path can be very rocky and steep. On the way you will come across the cliff of Punta Castagna and the rock called Castagnola before being rewarded with one of the most evocative views on the Cinque Terrre and a wonderfully picturesque spot to spend the day by the sea, bathing in the water, snapping some photos, relaxing, and enjoying your beautiful surroundings. There is no doubt that it is a bit of a difficult journey but even less doubt that it is absolutely worth it if you are willing and able to give it a go!
So, if you have always dreamed of a vacation in the Cinque Terre, of finding a holiday villa in Liguria and exploring this stunning part of Italy, of long days by the sea, of sun, fun, and the most scenic of surroundings, then get planning your dream holiday today and make it happen. Have something to look forward to and be sure to pencil in a trip to this very special hidden gem while you are in the area!