Tourism in Loano implies at the same time the quality of first-class services and the charm of a man-made dimension of simplicity and pleasantness typical of the truest Liguria - an enchanted ribbon of seaside historical borghi and unforgettable sceneries.
The centre (11,000 inhabitants) stands in the heart of the Ligurian Riviera delle Palme, halfway between Alassio and Finale Ligure, in a level verdant area between the seashore and the railway. The resort boasts an efficient tourist information office, a well-equipped marina and a welcoming (and dynamic) accommodation system, usually family-run.
The local coat-of-arms bears a silver egg, which probably generated the toponym “Lovanus”. Ever since the beginning of times, the egg has symbolized perfection, ingenuity and fertility. The Loanesi were compelled to turn to cleverness more than once during the dark times of Saracen raids, threatening Christianity on the sea and on the terra firma. Loano itself was defended by a pentagonal set of city walls, partially visible even today in the maze of the centro storico – do not miss the imposing Porta Pastorino surmounted by a huge clock. The echo of the past also resounds in the stately dwellings (e.g. the 16th century Palazzo Comunale) built by the Doria, lords of the place.
The Lungomare provides the delight of flowerbeds, mosaic floorings and fountain-sculptures by famous artists such as Nespolo and Valentini – an art promenade by the sea complete with the pleasure of a cup of gelato.
If you turn your back to the coast, you will discover the sea of green of the entroterra, the joy of hikers, climbers and cyclists (not to forget speleologists). We limit our proposal only to two itineraries. From the scenic hamlet of Verzi ((the homeland of exquisite vegetable savoury pies) thread on to the rifugio of Pian delle Bosse, trek to the peak of Monte Carmo and get down to Bardineto, the village of springs and mushrooms. Otherwise, cross Boissano and head to the caves of Toirano (the grotta della Bàsua – witch – is open all year round), a paradise of stalagmites and stalactites.