The abbey of San Fruttuoso is a jewel of eastern Liguria at 40 km from Genoa (what to see in A weekend in Genoa). Built in a narrow, sheltered bay, it can be reached only by sea or by footpaths.
According to legend, the origins of the abbey date back to the 8th century. Over the centuries, the abbey has been inhabited by different monastic orders and has changed hands several times. In the last century it was restored and then opened to the public. It is a singular place where history and nature merge together, offering impressive views.
The bay lies between Camogli and Portofino, two very characteristic villages that are definitely worth a visit. There are two boat lines departing from Camogli (timetables) and from Santa Margherita Ligure (timetables), in case of rough seas the service is not guaranteed.
Starting from Camogli, you can enjoy the view of the small harbour and have a complete view of the town from the sea, which is truly special.
Continuing on, you pass Punta Chiappa, a tongue of land that penetrates into the sea, after which you pass off the wild, rocky coast.
You do not see the bay of San Fruttuoso until the last minute, it appears between the rocks and the sea leaving you speechless.
The abbey is managed by FAI (the National Trust for Italy), a non-profit foundation established with the aim of protecting and enhancing Italy’s historical, artistic and landscape heritage. The foundation also took care of the restoration of the abbey. Admission is free for FAI registered members, otherwise the ticket costs €8. The three-mullioned windows that make up the facade offer unique views of the sea.
The upper and lower cloisters are adorned with columns and capitals of different styles. There is also a church, the ancient tombs of the monks and the more ‘recent’ tombs of the Dorias, a Genoese family who obtained the abbey in the 16th century.
At weekends at 1 p.m., a guided tour is organised, to be booked online, but it is also possible to wander around freely following the historical notes in the brochure handed out at the entrance or by asking the volunteers inside who are very willing to tell the story.
The beach in front of the abbey is clean and the water is crystal clear, so swimming is really recommended to enjoy the view of the abbey from the sea.
È vero, questo è proprio un angolo di paradiso!
Grazie per aver letto! Alla prossima! Ciao