Photo of the Day – San Fruttuoso Italy
No roads lead to this secluded Italian cove. In fact, the nearest parking is more than an hour away in Portofino.
But if you’re visiting Liguria’s legendary Italian Riviera, this is one spot you can’t miss.
Make the hike or catch a boat from Camogli, Portofino or Santa Margherita Ligure to this sparkling turquoise bay. Or take a ferry from Genoa while in port and spend a relaxing day at this picturesque beach in San Fruttuoso, Italy.
While San Fruttuoso is neither port nor resort, what this sandy spot lacks in facilities, it more than makes up for with two worthy attractions.
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Is San Fruttuoso worth visiting?
Aside from the lovely beach, there are two main sights that make San Fruttuoso well worth a visit.
The first is an ancient Benedictine abbey, the other the Christ of the Abyss.
San Fruttuoso Abbey
Dedicated to Saint Fructuosus, a 3rd century bishop, the Abbey of San Fruttuoso holds the burial vaults of the aristocratic Doria family of Genoa.
Before nature decided to add a beach to this mountainous coastline, boats moored directly under the monastery’s supporting arches.
Read More: The Best of the Italian Riviera in 3 Days
Christ of the Abyss
The Christ of the Abyss takes a little more work to reach.
It’s a larger-than-life-size bronze statue situated a little offshore and 50ft under the sea that has become somewhat of a shrine for divers. In clear waters, it’s possible to see Christ’s outstretched arms raised toward the source of light from a glass-bottom boat.
But for those who wish to stay on dry land, there’s a replica in the church next to the monastery.
Can you spend the night in San Fruttuoso?
There are no hotels in San Fruttuoso, Portofino and Camogli are the closest places to stay. But don’t worry, there are 4 restaurant options to choose from if you get hungry while enjoying your day at the beach. (Tip: My favorite is the seafood restaurant, da Georgia.)
So, if you’re planning a trip to Italy, don’t miss this hidden gem along the Italian Riviera.
Looking for more great destinations in Italy? Start here:
Italy’s Fantastic 5 – The Seaside Towns of Cinque Terre in 48 Hours
Is the Volcanic Island of Ischia Italy’s Hottest Destination?
The Fairytale Republic of San Marino: Italy’s Mountaintop Microstate
3 Reasons to “Make Like Napoleon” and Escape to Italy’s Elba Island
The Best of the Italian Riviera in 3 Days
Bucket List Italy: How to Visit the Iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
Ahh yes, but let us not forget the little mom n pop restaurant on the side of the shore that is the real reason for going. While you relax in your swimsuit at checkered clothed table, they go out and pluck the bronzino right there out of the sea, cook it up properly while mama is in the back whipping up your pasta and pesto, and it is all washed down with a local prosecco that you cannot drink anywhere else as it simply does not travel – it looses its effervescence and, essentially, dies. You cannot have this meal anywhere else on earth. It is simple, real, delicious and comes from right there.
Wow, Michelle, that sounds amazing!! I’m so sorry I missed that. I will definitely make a point to go back on my next trip specifically to have that meal. Thanks so much for sharing, those are just the kind of incredible local experiences that make travel so special!