A Kayak Itinerary from Savona Along the Western Riviera

The sea as you've never seen it before

There's a way to discover the Savona coast that most tourists don't even consider: descend to water level, just a few centimeters from the surface, and let the sea guide your gaze toward the land.

From the kayak, the perspective is completely reversed. The colorful houses of Noli become a theatrical backdrop seen from below. The cliffs, which from the road appear simple rock faces, from here reveal caves, inlets, and plays of light that no photograph from land can capture. It's a slow, silent, physical viewpoint—and therefore memorable.

The itinerary: from Savona to Bergeggi

Stage 1 — Departure from the port of Savona

The classic route starts from Fornaci beach or the tourist port of Savona, from which you sail west. The first paddle strokes already offer a view of the Priamar fortress from the sea—an angle few people know.

Stage 2 — The coves of Spotorno

Continuing toward Spotorno, the coastline becomes more rugged. Small pebble coves, accessible only by sea or by long hikes, offer perfect stops for a swim away from the summer crowds.

Stage 3 — Bergeggi Island

The most evocative point of the itinerary is undoubtedly the Bergeggi Marine Protected Area: crystal-clear waters, a seabed rich in biodiversity, and an uninhabited island that can be circumnavigated. Here, the sea changes color, from turquoise to deep blue in just a few meters.

Stage 4 — Noli, the village reflected in the sea

Arriving in Noli is the highlight: the medieval houses overlooking the water, the town hall tower, and the restaurants with tables almost on the water's edge. From here, you can continue to the beach for the return journey, or arrange to have your kayak picked up by land.

When to go and what to know

Seasonality

The ideal time is from May to October , with the sea generally calm in the morning hours. July and August offer warmer water but more crowds; September offers near-perfect conditions with fewer tourists.

Difficulty level

The itinerary is accessible even to beginners if divided into short stages (2-3 hours), while the complete Savona-Noli route requires a basic level of training and, ideally, a local guide for safety in the open sea.

Rental and guided tours

Several operators along the coast offer single and double kayak rentals, as well as guided tours with an instructor—a recommended option for those unfamiliar with local currents or visiting the area for the first time.

Practical tips for the trip

• Waterproof sunscreen and a hat: exposure at sea is more intense than on land.
• Waterproof bag for phone, keys and documents
• Departure early in the morning , when the sea is flatter and the light is more suggestive for photos
• Rock shoes , useful for landing on pebble coves
• Check the weather forecast before leaving, especially for the wind