07 Giu Discovering San Fruttuoso Bay: what to see

Halfway between Camogli and Portofino lies a small natural jewel: the San Fruttuoso Bay.

We are in the beating heart of the Portofino Regional Natural Park and it is here, nestled between the Ligurian mountains, that this splendid bay rises, characterised by its crystal-clear sea and the homonymous San Fruttuoso Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century.

Let’s discover together what to see in the seaside village of San Fruttuoso, which can also be reached by boat from Genoa or on foot by following a route inside the natural park that lasts about two hours. This is recommended for trekking lovers who want to experience close contact with nature.

San Fruttuoso Bay: sea and beach

In San Fruttuoso Bay, the first thing that strikes the eye is undoubtedly the sea. Crystal-clear waters of a deep blue colour that host the statue of the Christ of the Abyss, which lies at a depth of about 17 metres. The statue was placed on the seabed at the behest of Duilio Marcante, one of Italy’s foremost diving experts. The significance of this choice is very profound. The Christ of the Abyss protects and remembers all those who have died at sea and those who have made the sea their life.

San Fruttuoso beach is, without doubt, one of the best known and most sought after by tourists from all over the world. Its peculiarity is the presence of the abbey that makes the landscape absolutely unique. The beach is often crowded with tourists, especially in the warmer months, but it is worth visiting at least once.

As mentioned above, several boats depart for the San Fruttuoso Bay during the summer months and, to be precise, the departure areas are Portofino, Genoa, Chiavari, Recco, Sestri Levante, Santa Margherita, Rapallo.

The FAI heritage Abbey

This is a place of Catholic worship of undisputed beauty. The abbey further enriches the already breathtaking landscape of San Fruttuoso Bay and makes it unique. We are in the municipality of Camogli within the land and sea park of Monte di Portofino, in the area also known as Capodimonte.

The owner of the Benedictine monastery dating back to the year one thousand is the FAI, and this alone gives an idea of its artistic and other significance. The abbey is one of the many treasures of our beautiful Italy that must be protected. Previously, the structure was owned by the Doria family, but they donated it to the FAI in 1983.

Since then, the complex has been living a new life, as it has been restored and the spring in the Bay of San Fruttuoso, which was once covered by a tower, has also been enhanced. The small village of San Fruttuoso is perfect for those who come to Ligura di Levante and want to discover a piece of history as well as relax in the beautiful waters that bathe the bay.

Here you can breathe in peace and relaxation and be in close contact with a luxuriant nature and with all the beauty that Italy’s architectural heritage holds in store for us.