Bouganville Portovenere is not just a holiday home; it’s the place where, year after year, I spent my holidays with family and my dearest friends.
Located on the first floor of a villa with an invaluable landing stage on the sea, this property offers breathtaking views of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage village, Palmaria Island, and Lerici, with the Apuan Alps and the Versilia landscape as a stunning backdrop. This exceptional location provides the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday, allowing guests to experience one of the most striking panoramas of the Ligurian Sea.
The apartment is ideally equipped for vacation stays. Its spacious open-plan layout includes a sleeping loft and a twin bedroom, both featuring large windows that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Two expansive terraces provide a peaceful retreat, shielding guests from the surrounding hustle and bustle while offering panoramic views of the lush Mediterranean garden filled with pine trees, holm oaks, myrtles, and vibrant bouganvillea flowers.
The private park features a picturesque staircase leading directly to the sea, where guests can enjoy a refreshing swim, snorkel, canoe, or sail in the crystal-clear waters.
Bouganville Portovenere Holiday Home Description:
Originally built in 1960 and completely redesigned in 1976, the apartment has been continuously updated to ensure comfort and spatial flexibility.
The well-organized open-plan space is designed for natural light and optimal air circulation, providing a naturally cool environment. It includes a fully equipped living and dining area, a large double sofa bed, and a lofted double bed accessible via a wooden staircase.
The kitchen is functional and fully equipped with a dishwasher, induction cooktop, microwave/grill oven, refrigerator, and freezer.
Adjacent to the open space is a separate bedroom featuring two navy-style beds and a spacious wardrobe. The bathroom, elegantly finished in natural slate stone, features WC, washbasin and shower box.
For added comfort, the apartment is equipped with Wi-Fi, smart TV, Sonos Play1 home sound system, chess, playing cards, and table toys. The air conditioning system provides a pleasant coolness in the summer and can also be used to warm up the first chills of spring and autumn.
The lower terrace features a dining table for six, a Weber BBQ, one Sun lounger and two ultra-comfortable Lafuma Relax Reclining Chairs (see photos).
From October 15 to June 2, the pier is lifted for its "winter break", but the sea remains accessible from the jetty.
Arrival Information
By Plane:
- Nearest airports: Pisa (96 km), Genoa (108 km), Florence (150 km).
By Train and Bus:
- La Spezia train station is 12 km from Portovenere.
- La Spezia-Portovenere buses operate on the “P” line.
By Ferry:
- The Tourist Maritime Consortium provides sea connections between Portovenere, Palmaria Island, La Spezia, and major tourist destinations in Liguria and Tuscany, including the Cinque Terre, Lerici, Portofino, Genoa (Acquario di Genova), Viareggio, and Capraia Island.
By Car:
- From the La Spezia highway exit (A12 Genoa-Livorno or A15 Parma-La Spezia), follow the signs to Via Provinciale (SP 530 near La Spezia Stadium) to reach the Portovenere peninsula.
- Parking in Portovenere is limited. Public paid parking is divided into high-cost roadside parking and a larger, more affordable parking area (200 meters from the house).
- From June 2 to September 30, a free shuttle bus runs from 10 AM to midnight throughout the Portovenere peninsula.
Must-See Attractions in Portovenere and Surroundings:
Portovenere, built on the ruins of the ancient Roman settlement of Portus Veneris, is a culturally rich destination. Visitors can explore the imposing Doria Castle and two historically significant churches: the proto-Romanesque Church of St. Peter and the Church of St. Lawrence, which showcases Romanesque and Gothic elements.
Portovenere, along with the Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and a designated Marine Reserve and National Park. The breathtaking coastline, rugged cliffs, deep blue waters, and unspoiled nature have inspired renowned poets and writers such as Lord Byron, Percy B. Shelley, Petrarch, and Eugenio Montale, giving birth to the name "Gulf of Poets."
Other Activities:
For antique lovers: Visit Sarzana’s famous antique fairs.
For naval enthusiasts: Explore the Naval Museum in La Spezia.
For food lovers: Enjoy the region’s specialties, including traditional focaccia, fresh seafood, and the distinctive cuisine of Lunigiana.
For sports enthusiasts: Windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, diving, hiking, and climbing are all easily accessible.
Whether you seek relaxation, cultural exploration, or adventure, Bouganville Portovenere offers an unforgettable holiday experience in one of Italy’s most stunning coastal locations.
