Island la Palmaria is a strip of land on the sea just a short distance from the picturesque town of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest of the three islands in the Gulf of Poets.
The island Palmaria offers an astonishing variety of landscapes despite a limited total area: hills of Mediterranean scrub, sheer cliffs overlooking the sea, deep crystal-clear waters, and striking scenic routes.
Palmaria’s beaches are fascinating pebbly corners in front of an unspoiled sea, overlooking Portovenere, Tino and Tinetto: Punta Secco beach, Pozzale beach and Gabbiani beach are perfect destinations for those seeking relaxation under the sun or for snorkeling enthusiasts, thanks to the seabed rich in flora and fauna.
If you are looking for excursions in the green, you will not be disappointed: the only way to get around the island is in fact on foot, in one day you can do the entire walk reaching the main places of interest.
Paths that plunge into the flourishing hillside vegetation, olive groves overhanging the water, scenic and majestic rocky cliffs and paths that are always well marked: an authentic immersion in the green heart of Liguria awaits you, which finds here wonderful testimonies en plein air.
The island the Palmaria possesses a long military history declined in the many remaining fortifications: remember Forte Umberto I, also known as the fortress on the sea, which is used as a fascinating location for weddings and conventions.
The impressive size of Forte Cavour can be guessed from the vegetation-submerged outer walls, an absolutely characteristic corner of the island.
Finally, the hallmark of Palmaria Island are the beautiful quarries of portoro marble, from which the famous and ancient black marble used to decorate the most prestigious buildings was extracted: at the now disused quarries there are still remains of cranes and hoists used to move the large blocks, a testament to past traditions.
An excursion to Palmaria is an unmissable experience for those visiting Liguria, a place where history and nature are inextricably intertwined, giving rise to unrepeatable emotions.