{"id":2289,"date":"2019-03-24T18:49:46","date_gmt":"2019-03-24T17:49:46","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.residenceoliveto.it\/?p=2289"},"modified":"2019-04-14T16:58:52","modified_gmt":"2019-04-14T14:58:52","slug":"la-pista-ciclabile-del-ponente-ligure","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.residenceoliveto.it\/en\/la-pista-ciclabile-del-ponente-ligure\/","title":{"rendered":"The Cycle Path of West Liguria"},"content":{"rendered":"

Another day in paradise…<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n

It\u2019s not the usual article about the Cycle Path of Western Liguria<\/strong>, but it\u2019s the Cycle Path told by Madeleine, a road cyclist, using it on daily basis.\u00a0 Being swedish it also natural that she is riding it watching and exploring it from a different \u2018eye\u2019 and therefore appreciating it for what the locals might be taken for granted.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/figure>\r\n

–\u201cAnother day in paradise\u201d<\/strong> \u2026\u2026 \u00a0is without doubt what pops up in my mind each time I find myself on the cycle path as being close to where I live, often used as a starter and end of my rides.<\/p>\r\n

This cycle path is constructed on what once was the ex-railway trail, between Genoa \u2013 Ventimiglia (confining to France), uniting the villages along the coast of \u2018Riviera Ligure\u2019<\/strong> from San Lorenzo al Mare (east) to Ospedaletti (west).<\/p>\r\n

Consequently, all the ex-railway stations along the path are converted into various bike rentals, bars a\/o\u00a0 charming inns for a pit stop of any kind. \u00a0These 24 km, in each direction, divided clearly painted in 3 parts; 2 cycling directions and a separate line for pedestrians are to me, very much a car free paradise.<\/p>\r\n

The cycling is always along the famous \u201cRiviera dei Fiori\u201d- Coastal Park<\/strong>, totally car free as well as from any kind of motorized vehicle with the Mediterrean Sea always on one side<\/strong>. Above all, it\u2019s an open paradise that can be used all year around and for everybody\u2026.and, useless to say, an excellent choise for families with children and an outdoor activity.<\/p>\r\n

Completely asphalt paved, with plenty stops where to take a break of any kind; a snack, a photo shooting, a \u2018rest or stretch\u2019-session, lunch or just some sunbathing enjoying a coffe at the dehors of any of the plenty restoring services\u00a0 offered \u2018along the road\u2019.<\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n

Let\u2019s go together to experience this path starting at San Lorenzo al Mare.<\/h3>\r\n

San Lorenzo al Mare is a typical ligurian village<\/strong> and arriving by car, you\u2019ll find a large parking lot at the old ex-railway station, now remade into one of the many rental services offered to public. Here is also the exact spot where the cycle path starts and I\u2019ll wait for you here \u2026. No worries if you didn\u2019t bring your own bike \u2026at the rental shop you\u2019ll find a vast choise; race \/ mountain \/ assisted-rickshaw for up to 6 persons \/ tandem \/ rollers \/ skateboards\u2026.\u00a0 There are also equipment to bring along small children not using their own vehicule. In one way or the other \u2026.we\u2019ll be rolling.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"\r\n
The Cycle Path of West Liguria<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

In 2015 the GdI (Giro d\u2019Italia) started with the 1st Stage of ca. 18km.\u00a0 A Team Chrono Race on the very Cycle Path. For the occasion a huge and pink GdI-bike was built and placed exactly where the cycle path starts. It is still there and some illumination has been added so it can be admired also by night.<\/p>\r\n

I went down to watch them pass by an placed myself in one of the many \u2018parking pockets\u2019 along the path where one can take a pause. Standing there at less than 1 mt distance when each team passed is something I will never forget\u2026the \u2018whirlpool feeling\u2019 was simply hilarious \u2026.after the first team had passed I kept my distance. Consider they kept a speed of avg. 53km\/hr.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Like the Pro\u2019s that day in May \u201915, we will now start our ride and we will not be pedaling for long until we\u2019ll front the first long tunnel. It\u2019s an excellent alternative during winter season or on a day when it\u2019s \u2018raining cats and dogs\u2019 for many of us regular cyclists meet in the tunnel for a good workout on bike without using indoor rollers back home.<\/p>\r\n

It\u2019s interesting and curious to remember that in this tunnel the trains once were passing, exactly on this same path, a piece of the railway where \u00a0you can still spot some \u2018left overs\u2019 in regards, a stoplight for instance\u2026.. Ending after ca.1700mt the blu sky will great us again together with the seaside which will remain on our side all long the excursion.<\/p>\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Costarainera & Cipressa<\/h3>\r\n

I\u2019ve lived here in Liguria for more then 20 years and I can assure you the difficulty to get annoyed by its\u2019 beauty and fascinating views \u2026.changing only with the 4 seasons, each one with its\u2019 charming colors and aspects.<\/p>\r\n

If you like to visit typical ligurian villages, seen from the path up mountain, there are plenty of possibilites to exit and to reach them, but pedaling a piece of the car trafficed road, Aurelia.<\/p>\r\n

Of course you will have to do a little climbing as well, situated often only a few km up road, but the reward is absolutely priceless in form of panorama, and the three often compulsery componets; water fountain, main square with bar and the church.<\/p>\r\n

If one wants to visit Cipressa<\/strong>, being the second last climb in the Milano-Sanremo Race, it consists of a 5,7 km climbing with a medium gradient of 5% \u2026.passing shortly before arriving Costa Rainera. If you are a road cyclist I\u2019m sure you wish to climb it \u2026.reading all the writings sprayed on the asphalt by the fans to cheer their favorite Pro Cyclist\u00a0 the Pro\u2019s while climbing. \u00a0Once at the summit then permit yourself to regain breath, refill the water bottle and inhale the most stunning view that you just gained \u2026and allow that feeling of satisfaction embrace you.<\/p>\r\n

The down hill has got some charming switch backs and in one of those there is a \u2018must-stop4photo\u2019 with the newly painted murales: \u2018Cipressa\u2019. Cipressa is to be taken directly before the tunnel We will then make only a 100mt on Aurelia before re entering the cycle path at Aregai Marina, a.k.a. the Marina Port of Aregai with all kind of facilities for tourists.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Santo Stefano al mare & Riva Ligure<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Instead of remaining on the path\u2026.let\u2019s deviate again and enter in the center of the absolutely most wonderful coast village, Santo Stefano al Mare,<\/strong> separating you from the seaside. When passing, often I can\u2019t resist to pass through the village as it wraps me somehow with beauty & charm.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

At a certain point on the facade of a little cozy house you can read on a sign above the entrance; \u201cLocal Police Office\u201d \u2026I can\u2019t resist smiling\u2026if a were a cop, I\u2019d like it to be my base. Family homes, often with a fisherman as husband, painted in all the typical ligurian colors, such as soft pink, light green, light blu sky and smooth yellow \u2026.<\/p>\r\n

Never itching your eyes but more like the colors of the various tastes of icecream \u2026well for sure it cannot be avoided \u2026sooner or later\u2026.here or in the next village, Riva Ligure, I believe without exagerating that we\u2019ll pass at least 10-12 ice cream stands \u2026ouch ..such a tentation! Time Out \u2026.for a \u2018Gelato Pit Stop\u2019.<\/p>\r\n

Another peculiarity is the medioval tower in Santo Stefano being one of its\u2019 kind in whole Italy. There are plenty of defence towers along the coast (also in villages up mountain) built for the defence and to view from ashore, the arrival by sea, the Saracenic pirats,\u00a0 trying to invade Liguria. Back to this particular tower, built in 1566 it is the only one that is enneagonal; -\u201cYes, it\u2019s got nine sides. Since more then 150years it is today the Municipal Office.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Arma di Taggia<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Always with the sound of the seawaves in company we\u2019ll return \u2018back on track\u2019 from Riva Ligure, and make another few km until arriving to Arma di Taggia. Down by the Marina, living here,\u00a0 is where I and other locals come to buy the fish caugth the same morning by the local fishermen. Slightly inland the actually same village, but now called Taggia only.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n

This village (Arma di Taggia\/Taggia) is where the Argentina Valley and its\u2019 river flows out into the mediterrean sea. In the main roundabout (on Aurelia) you\u2019ll see two huge rusty olives and there is a reason for that. From this valley comes the most famous and most esteemed olives of them all, the \u2018Olive Taggiasche\u2019 \u2026even Prince Charles orders from an olive oil producer in the valley and gets it sent to UK. Exiting Arma di Taggia we will also sight\u00a0 \u2018Grotta dell\u2019Annunziata\u2019<\/strong> with a defence fortress, built during the same period as the the \u2018Torre Ennagonale\u2019 in Santo Stefano, mid-1600th century.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"\r\n
“Big” Olives in Arma di Taggia<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\u00a0Bussana Vecchia a \/ or the mythical climb of Poggio?<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Between Arma di Taggia and Sanremo we will pass new temptations and we will have to make a choise if we do not intend to do both \u2026.For a tipical roadbike cyclist it will be hard to explain why not attacking the most famous and last climb of the Milano-Sanremo Spring Classic Rac<\/strong>e\u2026..so much history, so many emotions, dreams realized and dreams crushed\u2026..so yes, it\u2019s a must. Who does not remember Nibali on this downhill as this years\u2019 (\u201819) downhill from Cipressa<\/strong> by Bonifazio ?<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

But before that, one might want to get up to Bussana Vecchia<\/strong>. The \u2018new\u2019 village, Bussana, is only 2km up deviating just after having left Arma. But to reach the \u2018Old Bussana\u2019 that were totally destroyed by the earthquake in 1891 we\u2019ll have to climb another 3km \u2026..medium gradient (5%). No doubt \u2026if you have time and curiosity \u2026it is absolutely a village that one can call \u2018on e of its\u2019 kind\u2019 \u2026. It was abandoned by its\u2019 habitants due to the disaster the left all of them without home and they walked down closer to the sea and with time, passion and necessity, they built up a totally new village, today called Bussana, easliy spotted from the coast with its\u2019 yellow churchtower.<\/p>\r\n

The old one was in the 60\u2019-ies invaded by \u2026should I say \u2018flower power\u2019\u00a0 & peace & love strangers, mostly from NL-UK-GER a.s.o. Slowly in the years it has all been regulated and \u2018secured\u2019 and today it\u2019s a blooming, artistic, with handicraft \u2018caves\u2019, art galleries, curiousities and beautiful village. Just before entering (to leave the bikes for a moment and explore it by foot ) a restaurant with a terrass serving lunch\/dinners outdoors admiring a 180\u00b0 view over the sea and the Marittime Alps behind you.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

From Sanremo to Ospedaletti …<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

After having descended from Poggio<\/strong> we\u2019re already in Sanremo, which I believe, does not require an extended presentation. Mostly famous for the \u201cFestival della Canzone Italiana\u201d as well as for the arrival of the opening season race; Spring Classic Milano-Sanremo. Sanremo though has also had a gloriuos period (1800th century) when it was visited by many upper class, as well as royal, russians. They travelled here to enjoy the mite climate during the winter period. Close to the Casino you\u2019ll see the Russian Church, easily distinguished by its\u2019 typical architecture. Another famous person who appreciated highly the beauty of Sanremo was Tjaikovskij.<\/p>\r\n

Heading back to on the cycle path again we will continue towards east and separated by the second long tunnel, it will take us to Ospedaletti<\/strong> where we\u2019ll pedal along the beaches, sunbathing facilitieson the seaside and on the other side bars, restaurants, bike rental for another 1km where until it ends.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The \u201cMilano Sanremo Race Gallery Tunnel\u201d<\/h3>\r\n

The tunnel is passing under \u2018Capo Nero<\/strong>\u2019 and is, confronted with the first one, something totally different.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"\"\r\n
The famous Milano-Sanremo Race Gallery<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

Long 1,7 km and extremely well illuminated\u2026the paving is asphalt of course, but here everything is painted in PINK.\u00a0\u00a0 This is something you must spend some time \u2026it is not called \u2018The Milano<\/strong>–Sanremo Race Gallery\u201d<\/strong> only because it\u2019s painted in pink\u2026.. If you are a passionate cyclist you might get a feeling of \u2018Alice in Wonderland\u2019 \u2026don\u2019t feel ashamed to step down and make some segments by foot \u2026.because if you ride through you will not be able to read all the collection of the history of one of the greatest classics on road. Each ca. 50 mt there is some citation written on the asphalt below and above your head you can read curious anecdotes in regards.<\/p>\r\n

One of my favorites, even if it\u2019s almost impossible not to like them all, is the race of 1946. No TV\u2026only radio transmission \u2026.and the race was won by the great, Fausto Coppi arriving alone in solitary. Waiting \u2026.and waiting \u2026.then the Radio speaker said (lack of better) ; -\u201c\u2026while attending the other concurrents, we will transmit some ball room music\u201d.\u00a0 The tunnel is simply crowded with happenings and history of a Race that presented the 1st edition in 1907 and has been constant each year, apart from \u201944-\u201945 during the 2nd WW.<\/p>\r\n

Well\u2026hopefully I\u2019ve made you curious and interested to experience this marvellous cycle path.<\/p>\r\n

It would be great to meet you in \u2018my paradise\u2019,<\/strong> a natural gift of health, relax, beauty, happiness, vacation \u2026keep on smiling as I often do, I wish you lot\u2019s of great\u00a0 rides and also to meet and greet you here on the Cycle Path.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Here some usefull info:<\/p>\r\n\r\n

How to reach the Cycle Path<\/em><\/h3>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \r\n
  • By Train: <\/strong>The nearest train station is in Sanremo. This is situated still in the center and you can reach the path only a few hundred mt distant. For any other train station, as the railway has been replaced cycle path and the new railway one passes inland behind the various cities,\u00a0 makes it necessary to combine the arrival to any other city with the local bus connection to reach seaside. Time tables varies with high\/low season and is often subject to change, so better consult the website of the choosen city of arrival\u2026i.e. \u2018Comune di Cipressa\u2019 \u2013\u2018Comune di Ospedaletti\u2019 etc.<\/li>\r\n
  • \r\n

    By Car<\/strong>: San Lorenzo al Mare : closest exit from the highway, Autostrada A10 Genova \u2013 Ventimiglia, is Imperia Ovest.\u00a0 Follow indications for Sanremo \u2013 Ventimiglia on Aurelia SS1 (turn right when reaching the sea side) and you will arrive to San Lorenzo after ca. 5km.<\/p>\r\n

    Ospedaletti: closest exit from the highway, Autostrada A10 Genova \u2013 Ventimiglia, is Bordighera. Getting down to SS1-Aurelia you will turn left, following indications for Sanremo \u2013 Imperia. Ospedaletti is about another 5 km away and the Cycle Path starts at beginning of the city coming from east.<\/p>\r\n

    Both occasions offer car parking, mostly at payment, but with luck the WHITE painted pockets are often free of charge.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    Food & drinks points:<\/em><\/h3>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    As mentioned there are many and various bars & restaurants along the Cycle Path, where you can get a proper lunch or just a quick snack \u2026.often with relaxing facilities as sunchairs, etc. Useless to say the view is immediate to the Mediterraen Seaside and watching a sunset is always a great pleasure.\u00a0 There are also several spots with panoramic terrasses, where you can pic-nic bringing your own snack\/meal.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \"\"<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    On many places along the path there is often the access to the beach<\/strong>, cliffs and where one can go for a refreshing swim \u2026. On avg. each km, along the path, you\u2019ll find SOS-stations from where, in case of emergency, you can ask for assistance.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n

    For more info. please consult the public website reg. \u2018Pista Ciclabile del Ponente Ligure\u2019\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    Here the map, from the official website of the Cycle Path, there more info and details…<\/p>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    \"\"<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

    Photo credits\u00a0 “Milano Sanremo race Gallery” and Map pf the Cycle Path\u00a0 official website ww.pistaciclabile.com<\/p>\r\n

    other Photo credits Madeleine Devenyi<\/p>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>\r\n\r\n

     <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Another day in paradise…<\/p>\n

    It\u2019s not the usual article about the Cycle Path of Western Liguria, but it\u2019s the Cycle Path told by Madeleine, a road cyclist, using it on daily basis.\u00a0 Being swedish it also natural that she is riding it watching and exploring it from a different \u2018eye\u2019 and therefore appreciating it for what the locals might be taken for granted.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    –\u201cAnother day in paradise\u201d \u2026\u2026 \u00a0is without doubt what pops up in my mind each time I find myself on the cycle path as being close to where I live, often used as a starter and end of my rides.<\/p>\n

    This cycle path is constructed on what once was the ex-railway trail, between Genoa \u2013 Ventimiglia (confining to France), uniting the villages along the coast of \u2018Riviera Ligure\u2019 from San Lorenzo al Mare (east) to Ospedaletti (west).<\/p>\n

    Consequently, all the ex-railway stations along the path are converted into various bike rentals, bars a\/o\u00a0 charming inns for a pit stop of any kind. \u00a0These 24 km, in each direction, divided clearly painted in 3 parts; 2 cycling directions and a separate line for pedestrians are to me, very much a car free paradise.<\/p>\n

    The cycling is always along the famous \u201cRiviera dei Fiori\u201d- Coastal Park, totally car free as well as from any kind of motorized vehicle with the Mediterrean Sea always on one side. Above all, it\u2019s an open paradise that can be used all year around and for everybody\u2026.and, useless to say, an excellent choise for families with children and an outdoor activity.<\/p>\n

    Completely asphalt paved, with plenty stops where to take a break of any kind; a snack, a photo shooting, a \u2018rest or stretch\u2019-session, lunch or just some sunbathing enjoying a coffe at the dehors of any of the plenty restoring services\u00a0 offered \u2018along the road\u2019.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Let\u2019s go together to experience this path starting at San Lorenzo al Mare.<\/p>\n

    San Lorenzo al Mare is a typical ligurian village and arriving by car, you\u2019ll find a large parking lot at the old ex-railway station, now remade into one of the many rental services offered to public. Here is also the exact spot where the cycle path starts and I\u2019ll wait for you here \u2026. No worries if you didn\u2019t bring your own bike \u2026at the rental shop you\u2019ll find a vast choise; race \/ mountain \/ assisted-rickshaw for up to 6 persons \/ tandem \/ rollers \/ skateboards\u2026.\u00a0 There are also equipment to bring along small children not using their own vehicule. In one way or the other \u2026.we\u2019ll be rolling.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The Cycle Path of West Liguria<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    In 2015 the GdI (Giro d\u2019Italia) started with the 1st Stage of ca. 18km.\u00a0 A Team Chrono Race on the very Cycle Path. For the occasion a huge and pink GdI-bike was built and placed exactly where the cycle path starts. It is still there and some illumination has been added so it can be admired also by night.<\/p>\n

    I went down to watch them pass by an placed myself in one of the many \u2018parking pockets\u2019 along the path where one can take a pause. Standing there at less than 1 mt distance when each team passed is something I will never forget\u2026the \u2018whirlpool feeling\u2019 was simply hilarious \u2026.after the first team had passed I kept my distance. Consider they kept a speed of avg. 53km\/hr.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Like the Pro\u2019s that day in May \u201915, we will now start our ride and we will not be pedaling for long until we\u2019ll front the first long tunnel. It\u2019s an excellent alternative during winter season or on a day when it\u2019s \u2018raining cats and dogs\u2019 for many of us regular cyclists meet in the tunnel for a good workout on bike without using indoor rollers back home.<\/p>\n

    It\u2019s interesting and curious to remember that in this tunnel the trains once were passing, exactly on this same path, a piece of the railway where \u00a0you can still spot some \u2018left overs\u2019 in regards, a stoplight for instance\u2026.. Ending after ca.1700mt the blu sky will great us again together with the seaside which will remain on our side all long the excursion.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Costarainera & Cipressa<\/p>\n

    I\u2019ve lived here in Liguria for more then 20 years and I can assure you the difficulty to get annoyed by its\u2019 beauty and fascinating views \u2026.changing only with the 4 seasons, each one with its\u2019 charming colors and aspects.<\/p>\n

    If you like to visit typical ligurian villages, seen from the path up mountain, there are plenty of possibilites to exit and to reach them, but pedaling a piece of the car trafficed road, Aurelia.<\/p>\n

    Of course you will have to do a little climbing as well, situated often only a few km up road, but the reward is absolutely priceless in form of panorama, and the three often compulsery componets; water fountain, main square with bar and the church.<\/p>\n

    If one wants to visit Cipressa, being the second last climb in the Milano-Sanremo Race, it consists of a 5,7 km climbing with a medium gradient of 5% \u2026.passing shortly before arriving Costa Rainera. If you are a road cyclist I\u2019m sure you wish to climb it \u2026.reading all the writings sprayed on the asphalt by the fans to cheer their favorite Pro Cyclist\u00a0 the Pro\u2019s while climbing. \u00a0Once at the summit then permit yourself to regain breath, refill the water bottle and inhale the most stunning view that you just gained \u2026and allow that feeling of satisfaction embrace you.<\/p>\n

    The down hill has got some charming switch backs and in one of those there is a \u2018must-stop4photo\u2019 with the newly painted murales: \u2018Cipressa\u2019. Cipressa is to be taken directly before the tunnel We will then make only a 100mt on Aurelia before re entering the cycle path at Aregai Marina, a.k.a. the Marina Port of Aregai with all kind of facilities for tourists.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Santo Stefano al mare & Riva Ligure<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Instead of remaining on the path\u2026.let\u2019s deviate again and enter in the center of the absolutely most wonderful coast village, Santo Stefano al Mare, separating you from the seaside. When passing, often I can\u2019t resist to pass through the village as it wraps me somehow with beauty & charm.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    At a certain point on the facade of a little cozy house you can read on a sign above the entrance; \u201cLocal Police Office\u201d \u2026I can\u2019t resist smiling\u2026if a were a cop, I\u2019d like it to be my base. Family homes, often with a fisherman as husband, painted in all the typical ligurian colors, such as soft pink, light green, light blu sky and smooth yellow \u2026.<\/p>\n

    Never itching your eyes but more like the colors of the various tastes of icecream \u2026well for sure it cannot be avoided \u2026sooner or later\u2026.here or in the next village, Riva Ligure, I believe without exagerating that we\u2019ll pass at least 10-12 ice cream stands \u2026ouch ..such a tentation! Time Out \u2026.for a \u2018Gelato Pit Stop\u2019.<\/p>\n

    Another peculiarity is the medioval tower in Santo Stefano being one of its\u2019 kind in whole Italy. There are plenty of defence towers along the coast (also in villages up mountain) built for the defence and to view from ashore, the arrival by sea, the Saracenic pirats,\u00a0 trying to invade Liguria. Back to this particular tower, built in 1566 it is the only one that is enneagonal; -\u201cYes, it\u2019s got nine sides. Since more then 150years it is today the Municipal Office.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Arma di Taggia<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Always with the sound of the seawaves in company we\u2019ll return \u2018back on track\u2019 from Riva Ligure, and make another few km until arriving to Arma di Taggia. Down by the Marina, living here,\u00a0 is where I and other locals come to buy the fish caugth the same morning by the local fishermen. Slightly inland the actually same village, but now called Taggia only.\u00a0<\/p>\n

    This village (Arma di Taggia\/Taggia) is where the Argentina Valley and its\u2019 river flows out into the mediterrean sea. In the main roundabout (on Aurelia) you\u2019ll see two huge rusty olives and there is a reason for that. From this valley comes the most famous and most esteemed olives of them all, the \u2018Olive Taggiasche\u2019 \u2026even Prince Charles orders from an olive oil producer in the valley and gets it sent to UK. Exiting Arma di Taggia we will also sight\u00a0 \u2018Grotta dell\u2019Annunziata\u2019 with a defence fortress, built during the same period as the the \u2018Torre Ennagonale\u2019 in Santo Stefano, mid-1600th century.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    “Big” Olives in Arma di Taggia<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \u00a0Bussana Vecchia a \/ or the mythical climb of Poggio?<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Between Arma di Taggia and Sanremo we will pass new temptations and we will have to make a choise if we do not intend to do both \u2026.For a tipical roadbike cyclist it will be hard to explain why not attacking the most famous and last climb of the Milano-Sanremo Spring Classic Race\u2026..so much history, so many emotions, dreams realized and dreams crushed\u2026..so yes, it\u2019s a must. Who does not remember Nibali on this downhill as this years\u2019 (\u201819) downhill from Cipressa by Bonifazio ?<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    But before that, one might want to get up to Bussana Vecchia. The \u2018new\u2019 village, Bussana, is only 2km up deviating just after having left Arma. But to reach the \u2018Old Bussana\u2019 that were totally destroyed by the earthquake in 1891 we\u2019ll have to climb another 3km \u2026..medium gradient (5%). No doubt \u2026if you have time and curiosity \u2026it is absolutely a village that one can call \u2018on e of its\u2019 kind\u2019 \u2026. It was abandoned by its\u2019 habitants due to the disaster the left all of them without home and they walked down closer to the sea and with time, passion and necessity, they built up a totally new village, today called Bussana, easliy spotted from the coast with its\u2019 yellow churchtower.<\/p>\n

    The old one was in the 60\u2019-ies invaded by \u2026should I say \u2018flower power\u2019\u00a0 & peace & love strangers, mostly from NL-UK-GER a.s.o. Slowly in the years it has all been regulated and \u2018secured\u2019 and today it\u2019s a blooming, artistic, with handicraft \u2018caves\u2019, art galleries, curiousities and beautiful village. Just before entering (to leave the bikes for a moment and explore it by foot ) a restaurant with a terrass serving lunch\/dinners outdoors admiring a 180\u00b0 view over the sea and the Marittime Alps behind you.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    From Sanremo to Ospedaletti …<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    After having descended from Poggio we\u2019re already in Sanremo, which I believe, does not require an extended presentation. Mostly famous for the \u201cFestival della Canzone Italiana\u201d as well as for the arrival of the opening season race; Spring Classic Milano-Sanremo. Sanremo though has also had a gloriuos period (1800th century) when it was visited by many upper class, as well as royal, russians. They travelled here to enjoy the mite climate during the winter period. Close to the Casino you\u2019ll see the Russian Church, easily distinguished by its\u2019 typical architecture. Another famous person who appreciated highly the beauty of Sanremo was Tjaikovskij.<\/p>\n

    Heading back to on the cycle path again we will continue towards east and separated by the second long tunnel, it will take us to Ospedaletti where we\u2019ll pedal along the beaches, sunbathing facilitieson the seaside and on the other side bars, restaurants, bike rental for another 1km where until it ends.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The \u201cMilano Sanremo Race Gallery Tunnel\u201d<\/p>\n

    The tunnel is passing under \u2018Capo Nero\u2019 and is, confronted with the first one, something totally different.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    The famous Milano-Sanremo Race Gallery<\/p>\n

    Long 1,7 km and extremely well illuminated\u2026the paving is asphalt of course, but here everything is painted in PINK.\u00a0\u00a0 This is something you must spend some time \u2026it is not called \u2018The Milano–Sanremo Race Gallery\u201d only because it\u2019s painted in pink\u2026.. If you are a passionate cyclist you might get a feeling of \u2018Alice in Wonderland\u2019 \u2026don\u2019t feel ashamed to step down and make some segments by foot \u2026.because if you ride through you will not be able to read all the collection of the history of one of the greatest classics on road. Each ca. 50 mt there is some citation written on the asphalt below and above your head you can read curious anecdotes in regards.<\/p>\n

    One of my favorites, even if it\u2019s almost impossible not to like them all, is the race of 1946. No TV\u2026only radio transmission \u2026.and the race was won by the great, Fausto Coppi arriving alone in solitary. Waiting \u2026.and waiting \u2026.then the Radio speaker said (lack of better) ; -\u201c\u2026while attending the other concurrents, we will transmit some ball room music\u201d.\u00a0 The tunnel is simply crowded with happenings and history of a Race that presented the 1st edition in 1907 and has been constant each year, apart from \u201944-\u201945 during the 2nd WW.<\/p>\n

    Well\u2026hopefully I\u2019ve made you curious and interested to experience this marvellous cycle path.<\/p>\n

    It would be great to meet you in \u2018my paradise\u2019, a natural gift of health, relax, beauty, happiness, vacation \u2026keep on smiling as I often do, I wish you lot\u2019s of great\u00a0 rides and also to meet and greet you here on the Cycle Path.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Here some usefull info:<\/p>\n

    How to reach the Cycle Path<\/em><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    By Train: The nearest train station is in Sanremo. This is situated still in the center and you can reach the path only a few hundred mt distant. For any other train station, as the railway has been replaced cycle path and the new railway one passes inland behind the various cities,\u00a0 makes it necessary to combine the arrival to any other city with the local bus connection to reach seaside. Time tables varies with high\/low season and is often subject to change, so better consult the website of the choosen city of arrival\u2026i.e. \u2018Comune di Cipressa\u2019 \u2013\u2018Comune di Ospedaletti\u2019 etc.<\/p>\n

    By Car: San Lorenzo al Mare : closest exit from the highway, Autostrada A10 Genova \u2013 Ventimiglia, is Imperia Ovest.\u00a0 Follow indications for Sanremo \u2013 Ventimiglia on Aurelia SS1 (turn right when reaching the sea side) and you will arrive to San Lorenzo after ca. 5km.<\/p>\n

    Ospedaletti: closest exit from the highway, Autostrada A10 Genova \u2013 Ventimiglia, is Bordighera. Getting down to SS1-Aurelia you will turn left, following indications for Sanremo \u2013 Imperia. Ospedaletti is about another 5 km away and the Cycle Path starts at beginning of the city coming from east.<\/p>\n

    Both occasions offer car parking, mostly at payment, but with luck the WHITE painted pockets are often free of charge.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Food & drinks points:<\/em><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    As mentioned there are many and various bars & restaurants along the Cycle Path, where you can get a proper lunch or just a quick snack \u2026.often with relaxing facilities as sunchairs, etc. Useless to say the view is immediate to the Mediterraen Seaside and watching a sunset is always a great pleasure.\u00a0 There are also several spots with panoramic terrasses, where you can pic-nic bringing your own snack\/meal.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    On many places along the path there is often the access to the beach, cliffs and where one can go for a refreshing swim \u2026. On avg. each km, along the path, you\u2019ll find SOS-stations from where, in case of emergency, you can ask for assistance.\u00a0<\/p>\n

    For more info. please consult the public website reg. \u2018Pista Ciclabile del Ponente Ligure\u2019\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Here the map, from the official website of the Cycle Path, there more info and details…<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Photo credits\u00a0 “Milano Sanremo race Gallery” and Map pf the Cycle Path\u00a0 official website ww.pistaciclabile.com<\/p>\n

    other Photo credits Madeleine Devenyi<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2307,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[156,29,5,4,3,2],"tags":[165,162,170,171,169,166,163,58,161],"class_list":["post-2289","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-bike","category-famiglia","category-sport","category-territorio","category-vacanza-attiva","category-vacanza-in-liguria","tag-biking-in-italian-riviera","tag-ciclabile-ponente-ligure","tag-cycle-path","tag-cycle-track","tag-cycling-path","tag-gite-in-bicicletta","tag-pedalare-con-i-bambini","tag-pedalare-in-liguria","tag-pista-ciclabile"],"yoast_head":"\nThe Cycle Path of West Liguria - Residence Oliveto<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"La pista ciclabile del Ponente Ligure \u00e8 uno dei percorsi pi\u00f9 belli del Mediterraneo 24 km vista mare, per una gita in bicicletta adatta ai bambini\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/blog.residenceoliveto.it\/la-pista-ciclabile-del-ponente-ligure\/\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"The Cycle Path of West Liguria - 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