From East to West by bike along the railway

Railway lines used to cut through the coastal towns of Liguria, but over time they were moved further out into the countryside to reduce the loud sound of the locomotive. This resulted in kilometres of roads along the coast that remained ‘abandoned’ for many years. That said, some stretches of the now decommissioned railways have been restored and renovated into seafront walking and cycling paths. The beauty of the coast passing by the windows has not faded: it is still possible to use the train to reach the extremes of the region and then return by bike.

Western Liguria Cycle Path

The first itinerary we suggest, combining the pleasure of a train journey with the relaxation of cycling along the coast, uses the Genoa-Ventimiglia railway line. The route offers 24 kilometres of pedestrian and cycling paths along the sea, reclaimed from the former railway track of Western Liguria. It passes through the municipalities of Ospedaletti and San Lorenzo al Mare, going through Sanremo. The tunnel before Ospedaletti hosts a series of signs about the history of Milan-Sanremo. Along the route, there are numerous access points to the beaches, refreshment areas, and bike rental services. For those departing from Genoa, there are several options throughout the day: to enjoy the beauty of the Riviera dei Fiori cycle path, just take the train towards the border and get off at Ventimiglia.

Cycle Path Cogoleto – Varazze

Starting from Genoa and alighting at the Varazze station, you will have the opportunity to walk or cycle through the old train tunnels connecting Varazze, Arenzano, and Cogoleto. Lungomare Europa is the stretch that connects Cogoleto and Varazze: 4.5 kilometres long, it takes approximately an hour and a half to complete and follows a flat, paved path suitable for everyone. In Cogoleto, Lungomare Europa connects to the Fabrizio De Andrè promenade, which will take you to Arenzano. This, too, is easy to navigate and about three kilometres long. Both promenades can thus be combined into a single route.

Cycle Path Maremonti

At the far eastern edge of the region, there is a truly scenic route, accessible by train from Genoa towards La Spezia. Accessible to all, both experienced and beginners, it is the Maremonti cycle path, between Levanto, Bonassola, and Framura. The path, reclaimed from the old railway line, links three of the most beautiful villages in Eastern Liguria, offering breathtaking views just a few metres above sea level. The tunnels, once used by the train, have now been fully restored and illuminated, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to proceed safely; they have also been equipped with access points to hidden beaches and coves.