Camogli is a picture-perfect traditional fishing town not far from the more famous Cinque Terre, and just half an hour by car from tiny upmarket Portofino.
Relaxation, culture, and good food
Camogli is a somewhat hidden gem but well worth discovering for its brightly painted houses and its magnificent natural setting that enchants visitors in search of relaxation, culture, sea and good food.
There are an enchanting little harbour and colourful historical buildings on the waterfront, and the magnificent promenade packed with bars and typical restaurants was built on the model of the promenade des Anglais in Nice, in neighbouring France. The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta was built in the 12th century on a rocky outcropping overlooking the sea. It has three Baroque-style naves, crystal chandeliers and numerous works of art and valuable frescoes dating back from the 1500s. 
30,000 plates of fish in one day
Every year on the second Sunday of May, Camogli celebrates its Fish Festival. The star of the show is the gargantuan frying pan which is four metres in diameter and has a six-meter handle. It uses three tons of fresh fish and 3,000 litres of olive oil to produce 30,000 plates of fish for visitors to one of Italy’s tastiest festivities. Punta Chiappa, a traditional fishing village is one of the symbols of Camogli and a must-see. Divers will not want to miss its many caves like the Grotta dei Gamberi the name of which derives from the many tiny shrimps that cover its walls.
San Fruttuoso Abbey and a luxury hotel
Another interesting visit is to the Bay of San Fruttuoso, which can be reached by a steep road or by boat to admire the little village built around the monumental and complex of the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. There is a small sandy beach right in front of the Abbey. Deep sea lovers will not want to miss the opportunity of diving down to see the famous Christ of the Abyss that was placed on the seabed of the bay of San Fruttuoso in 1954. Although pricey, the lovingly restored Cenobio Dei Dogi Hotel on the Bay of Camogli, is the best choice for anyone wanting to stay in the lap of history and elegance. And it has superb views from the pool terrace.
