The coastal towns surrounding La Spezia offer a captivating glimpse into the Italian Riviera’s allure. From the vibrant hues of Portovenere’s houses to the serene charm of Tellaro’s cliffside vistas, this region beckons visitors to explore its rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful respite or an adventure-filled getaway, the Golfo dei Poeti holds an irresistible promise waiting to be discovered.

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Key Points

The charming town of Portovenere, with its colorful houses, medieval buildings, and notable landmarks like Doria Castle and Church of St. Peter, offers a picturesque Italian Riviera experience.
Tellaro, a picturesque seaside hamlet, features colorful houses, narrow alleyways, and the striking Church of San Giorgio, providing a scenic coastal village atmosphere.
La Caletta offers clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant marine life and soak up the tranquil coastal scenery.
Lerici, a charming town, boasts a well-preserved medieval fortress, a lively promenade, and scenic seaside views, offering opportunities to explore the captivating atmosphere.
Opportunities to explore local culture, savor authentic Ligurian dishes, and sample local wines and limoncello are available in Portovenere, Lerici, and Tellaro.

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Discovering the Picturesque Portovenere

As the boat glides across the calm waters, guests are treated to a captivating view of the charming town of Portovenere.

Perched on a rocky promontory, the colorful houses and medieval buildings create a picturesque setting. Visitors can wander the narrow streets, admiring the imposing Doria Castle and the iconic Church of St. Peter, which stands atop a rocky outcrop.

With its scenic harbor, lively piazzas, and stunning vistas, Portovenere offers a glimpse into the timeless allure of the Italian Riviera.

Portovenere’s scenic harbor, lively piazzas, and stunning vistas offer a glimpse into the timeless allure of the Italian Riviera.

The photo stop allows guests to capture the essence of this enchanting coastal gem.

Looking for more options in Lerici? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Charming Tellaro

The boat then glides swiftly towards the charming village of Tellaro, where the group has a brief photo stop. This picturesque seaside hamlet is known for its colorful houses, narrow alleyways, and stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.

Some key highlights of Tellaro include:

The striking Church of San Giorgio, with its distinctive bell tower overlooking the harbor.
The scenic promenade along the waterfront, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding cliffs and coastline.
The lively piazza, where locals and visitors alike gather to soak up the relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere.

After snapping a few photos, the group is whisked away to the next stop on their enchanting tour.

Relaxing in the Pristine Waters of La Caletta

After departing the quaint village of Tellaro, the speedboat whisks the group to the clear, turquoise waters of La Caletta.

Guests have 30 minutes to swim, snorkel, and cool off in the refreshing Ligurian Sea. The guide provides snorkeling equipment, allowing everyone to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

Guests enjoy 30 minutes of swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the vibrant marine life of the refreshing Ligurian Sea with provided equipment.

Soaking up the sun and taking in the stunning coastal scenery, it’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and soak in the tranquility of this hidden gem.

As the time comes to an end, the group reluctantly boards the boat, eager to discover the next picturesque destination.

Wandering the Charming Streets of Lerici

Once the group departs La Caletta, they soon arrive at the charming town of Lerici.

The guide leads them through the picturesque streets, pointing out the town’s highlights:

Lerici Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress looming over the harbor.
The lively promenade, bustling with cafes, boutiques, and local vendors.
The scenic seaside views, with the Ligurian coastline and azure waters as the backdrop.

The group has 40 minutes to explore Lerici at their own pace, wandering the quaint alleyways and soaking in the town’s captivating atmosphere before heading to their next destination.

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Admiring the Iconic St. Peter Church From the Sea

As the group’s speedboat glides across the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea, their gaze is immediately drawn to the iconic St. Peter Church perched atop the rocky peninsula of Portovenere.

The church’s striking white marble façade and distinct black-and-white striped bell tower stand in stark contrast to the azure blue sky and sea.

As the boat circles the promontory, the travelers marvel at the church’s unique location, seemingly carved into the cliffs and overlooking the picturesque harbor.

This photo stop offers an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate the church’s architectural splendor and its seamless integration with the dramatic coastal landscape.

Witnessing the Grandeur of the Castles Along the Coast

The group’s speedboat glides effortlessly past two grand castles perched on the rugged coastline.

These impressive fortresses, dating back centuries, stand as testaments to the rich history of the region.

As the boat approaches, passengers catch glimpses of the:

Castello di Lerici, a well-preserved medieval castle that dominates the skyline of the charming town of Lerici.
Castello di San Terenzo, a smaller but no less impressive castle overlooking the picturesque village of San Terenzo.
Castello di Portovenere, an imposing Genoese fortress guarding the entrance to the Golfo dei Poeti.

Experiencing the Local Culture and Cuisine

While the boat glides past the grand castles, passengers have opportunities to explore the local culture and cuisine.

In the charming towns of Portovenere, Lerici, and Tellaro, visitors can stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, browse quaint shops, and savor authentic Ligurian dishes.

From fresh seafood to homemade pasta, the regional flavors reflect the strong ties to the sea. Travelers can also sample local wines and limoncello, a citrus-based liqueur.

With ample free time in each stop, guests can enjoy the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle and connect with the friendly locals.

Practical Information for Your Golfo Dei Poeti Adventure

To make the most of your Golfo dei Poeti adventure, it’s important to be mindful of a few practical considerations.

First, arrive 15 minutes early to your departure point at Porto Mirabello. Look for the guide wearing a white shirt – they’ll be ready to greet you and get you settled.

Second, don’t forget to bring your passport or ID, as well as swimwear for the opportunity to swim and snorkel.

And lastly, please note this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so be sure to plan accordingly.

With these tips in mind, you’re set for an unforgettable day exploring the picturesque towns along the Ligurian coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hotel Accommodation Included in the Tour Package?

No, hotel accommodation is not included in the tour package. The tour price covers the guided boat tour, snorkeling equipment, skipper, fuel, and hotel pickup/drop-off, but travelers need to arrange their own accommodations separately.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

The tour provides a snorkeling kit, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment. However, if you have a preferred mask and snorkel, you’re welcome to use your own gear during the included swimming and snorkeling time.

Is There an Option for a Private or Customized Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private or customized tour. Guests can request a private boat tour, which allows them to customize the itinerary and enjoy a more personalized experience with just their group.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour isn’t well-suited for wheelchair users, as the itinerary involves some walking and getting on/off the boat. However, the provider may offer customized options for guests with mobility challenges – it’s best to inquire directly about accessibility.

Can I Reschedule or Modify My Tour Booking if Needed?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve your spot without any upfront payment, allowing you to modify your booking if needed.

The Sum Up

La Spezia’s coastal gems offer something for all. Portovenere’s vibrant houses and historic sights, Tellaro’s charming alleyways, and Lerici’s lively promenade and castle create an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the region’s rich culture, savor its delectable cuisine, and bask in the stunning natural beauty of the Italian Riviera. Whether you’re seeking history, natural wonders, or simply relaxation, this enchanting trio of towns is sure to captivate.

You can check availability for your dates here: