Itinerary of the 2 Gulfs Trail

The trail starts in Ruta, which is an important gateway to the Portofino Natural Park. You can reach Ruta by public transport, and there are typically parking options available in or near the village. From Ruta, trailheads lead towards Portofino Vetta and connect to San Rocco di Camogli.

The terrain is quite varied, characterized by paths 'clutched between the hills and the sea'. You'll traverse olive tree terraces, dense thickets, and paths along sheer rock faces. Expect a mix of rocky, dirt trails, and frequent stairs. Some descents can be steep, and parts may follow ancient mule tracks.

This hike offers numerous stunning views. You'll encounter View of Camogli from Piazzale Gaggini, View of Camogli and Monte Esoli, and a Bench With View of Santa Margherita Ligure and Rapallo. Other notable spots include the Portofino Summit and the View of the Ligurian Sea from the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino. You'll also pass through the Pietre Strette natural monument.

While the Portofino Natural Park generally welcomes visitors, specific regulations for dogs on trails can vary. It's always best to check the official park guidelines regarding leash requirements and restricted areas before you go. Generally, dogs are allowed on leash, but some sensitive areas might have restrictions.

Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for hiking in the Portofino Natural Park. The weather is milder, and the vegetation is vibrant. Summer can be very hot, especially on exposed sections, while winter can bring rain, making some paths slippery.

No, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the hiking trails within the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino. However, always respect park regulations regarding conservation and waste disposal.

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several official trails within the park. It largely follows the Itinerario dei 2 Golfi and also intersects with parts of the Sentiero Liguria - Tappa 10, Via della Costa - tappa 9, and the Camogli - San Rocco - Passo del Bacio - San Fruttuoso - Portofino mare trail.

This hike is rated as 'moderate'. While the overall difficulty is intermediate, be aware that some sections, particularly initial climbs like those from Camogli to San Rocco, involve significant 'steep climbing up stairs' and can be quite challenging. Descents can also be steep.

While the trail itself winds through natural areas, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities in the charming villages at either end, Ruta and Camogli, as well as in places like San Rocco. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the longer stretches between villages.

Given the varied terrain and potential for steep sections, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and layers of clothing as conditions can change. A map or GPS device is also recommended, along with a camera for the stunning views.

If you're concerned about the steepest climbs, consider starting your hike from Ruta and descending towards Camogli. The initial climb from Camogli to San Rocco is noted as 'probably the hardest part' of some routes in the area, so tackling it as a descent might be easier for some hikers.