The best cycling routes around Santa Margherita Ligure
4.3
(555)
7,474
riders
18
rides
Touring cycling around Santa Margherita Ligure features diverse terrain, balancing coastal beauty with lush hillside environments. The region is characterized by coastal roads, olive groves, and pine forests, offering varied elevation gains from sea level to significant climbs. Cyclists can experience striking sea views and panoramic vistas of the Ligurian Sea and the Gulf of Tigullio. The area provides a network of mostly paved routes suitable for different fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Santa Margherita Ligure
- The most…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
4.6
(13)
221
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
95
riders
40.1km
03:00
970m
970m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(74)
547
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(46)
471
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
60
riders
9.79km
00:38
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful views of Rapallo and the bay to Portofino
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Spectacular viewpoint of the coast.
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Climbing from Cicagna (north side) and passing through the hamlet of Dezerega, the road is mostly paved, with sections reaching gradients of over 20%. You gain 500 meters of elevation gain in about 5 km. It's very shaded, and from the Crocetta Pass, Rapallo is just a short drive away.
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The Archpresbyteral Basilica of Saints Gervasius and Protasius is located in the heart of Rapallo's historic center. It was built in Gothic-Romanesque style, likely in the Middle Ages, and a plaque inside indicates 1118 as the date of its dedication, although historians disagree with this dating. Over time, it underwent several renovations and modifications, culminating in reconstruction work between the 17th and 18th centuries, which eliminated the previous Gothic-Romanesque architectural style, giving it an 18th-century appearance. The tall, leaning bell tower dates back to 1753, and in the second half of the 19th century, further substantial modifications were made to the interior and to the new Neoclassical façade, designed by architect Gio Batta Olivieri. In the early 20th century, thanks to the new archpriest, Monsignor Cesare Boccoleri, the Basilica was definitively rebuilt and the monumental dome was constructed, which was completed in 1920. Dome of the Basilica of Rapallo In ancient times, the parish of Rapallo was of great importance, and its jurisdiction extended over a vast territory, from the present-day municipalities of Portofino to San Pietro di Rovereto, above Zoagli, and as far as Cicagna in the Fontanabuona Valley. Important popular meetings were held within the parish, where decisions regarding the social, political, and religious life of the area were made. Even today, the Rapallo parish community is the largest in the Diocese of Chiavari, with approximately 18,000 inhabitants. (c) https://hellorapallo.it/cosa-vedere/basilica-dei-ss-gervasio-e-protasio/
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Now in summer the section is very busy.
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Beautiful location, base and arrival point of the excursion. Consider arriving by train or bus (from Rapallo or Camogli for example) because the few parking lots are very expensive.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Santa Margherita Ligure, and what are their difficulty levels?
Santa Margherita Ligure offers over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 3 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 6 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 12 difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for significant climbs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Santa Margherita Ligure?
The terrain around Santa Margherita Ligure is diverse, featuring mostly paved coastal roads, charming olive groves, and lush pine forests. You'll encounter varied elevation gains, from gentle coastal stretches to challenging ascents into the hills, all while enjoying striking sea views.
Are there options for beginners or less experienced touring cyclists in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. A popular choice is From Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino - Portofino Regional Natural Park, which offers picturesque coastal views and is relatively flat, making it ideal for an enjoyable outing.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders in the area?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like From Santa Margherita Ligure to Passo della Crocetta offer significant elevation gain and varied terrain. Another demanding option is the Rapallo Castle – Passo della Crocetta (699 m) loop from Santa Margherita Ligure - Portofino, which includes substantial climbing and rewarding views.
What kind of scenic views can I expect while touring cycling in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Cyclists are treated to breathtaking scenery, including striking sea views and panoramic vistas of the Ligurian Sea and the Gulf of Tigullio. Routes often pass through landscapes adorned with vibrant flowers, ancient olive trees, and fragrant lemon groves, especially in the Portofino Regional Natural Park.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions I can visit along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the region is rich in attractions. You can cycle towards the charming village of Portofino, explore the historic castles like Rapallo Castle, or enjoy stunning viewpoints such as View of Castello Brown and Monte Santa Croce. The Portofino Regional Natural Park itself offers diverse natural features.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Santa Margherita Ligure?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning coastal and hillside views, and the well-maintained, mostly paved routes that cater to various fitness levels.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular moderate option is the Portofino – Santa Margherita Ligure Harbor loop from Santa Margherita Ligure - Portofino, which allows you to experience coastal roads and olive groves. For a more challenging loop, consider the Rapallo Castle – Passo della Crocetta (699 m) loop from Santa Margherita Ligure - Portofino.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Touring cycling in Santa Margherita Ligure can be enjoyed throughout the year. The mild Mediterranean climate means that with appropriate clothing, you can cycle comfortably in any season. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, while summer can be warm but still enjoyable, especially for early morning rides.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Santa Margherita Ligure?
For families, the easier coastal routes are generally the most suitable. The path from Santa Margherita Ligure towards Portofino, such as From Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino - Portofino Regional Natural Park, is relatively flat and offers beautiful, safe scenery, making it a great option for a family outing.
Can I find cafes or places to rest along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes, especially those along the coast or passing through towns like Portofino and Camogli, offer numerous opportunities to stop at cafes, restaurants, and shops. The seafront promenade in Santa Margherita Ligure itself is lined with establishments perfect for a break.
What are the typical durations for touring cycling routes in this region?
The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance and elevation. You can find shorter rides, like the 40-minute trip to Portofino, to longer, more challenging routes that can take over 3 hours, such as From Santa Margherita Ligure to Passo della Crocetta, allowing you to choose an adventure that fits your schedule.
Most popular routes around Santa Margherita Ligure
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