Spotorno: Spiaggia libera

Spotorno is best known within Liguria for its long sandy beach on the Ligurian Sea. The resort town occupies a sweep of coast between Noli and Bergeggi, with the wooded headlands of the Riviera di Ponente rising behind its waterfront. Across the bay lies Isola di Bergeggi, the focal point of the Isola di Bergeggi Marine Protected Area; the surrounding shore and sea give this stretch of coast a distinctly maritime identity. In the compact centre, the parish church of Santissima Annunziata is one of Spotorno’s established landmarks, while seafront streets lead directly to cafés, bathing areas and the railway station. Continue through nearby webcams to explore different parts of Spotorno and the Ligurian coast.

Liguria is best known within Italy for the Cinque Terre, five historic coastal villages set above the Ligurian Sea. This narrow north-western region runs between the sea and the Ligurian Alps and Apennines, giving it a densely settled coastline, steep terraces and compact inland valleys. Genoa, its capital, developed as one of the Mediterranean’s great maritime powers; its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The region is also closely associated with pesto alla Genovese, traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese and olive oil. Continue through nearby webcams to explore different parts of Liguria.

Among the countries of southern Europe, Italy stands out for its Mediterranean coastline and cities marked by the legacy of ancient Rome. The Alps form its northern frontier, while the Apennines run down the peninsula and the Po crosses the broad plain of the north. Rome’s Colosseum and Roman Forum recall the ancient empire; Florence is closely associated with the Renaissance, and Venice is built across a lagoon on the Adriatic. Food changes markedly between regions, from olive-oil cooking in the south to rice dishes in the Po Valley. Sicily and Sardinia add distinct island identities to a country whose regions retain strong local character. Explore nearby webcam locations that provide complementary perspectives on Italy’s coasts, cities and mountains.