Camporosso
Gateway to Val Nervia with Natural Oasis and Medieval Town Center
Camporosso is located at the entrance of Val Nervia, where the Nervia River flows into the coastal plain. The name derives from the Latin "campus rubeus" – red soil – and refers to the red oleanders along the riverbank or the cinnabar-red anemones under the olive trees.
The place consists of two parts: the modern coastal strip Camporosso Mare with a 300-meter-long beach, regularly awarded the Blue Flag, and the historic town center further inland. The old town displays the typical image of a Ligurian mountain village with closely stacked houses, narrow alleys, and small squares.
Particularly noteworthy is the Oasi Faunistica at the river mouth – a nature reserve spanning over six hectares with more than 200 bird species, herons, seagulls, and diverse flora. Additionally, in Camporosso begins the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri, the significant high-altitude hiking trail that extends across the entire Ligurian mountain ridge.
Highlights
- Oasi Faunistica della Val Nervia – Nature Reserve at the river mouth with over 200 bird species
- Parish Church of San Marco Evangelista from the 15th century with altarpiece by Stefano Andrechi
- Palazzo Doria – former residence of the Marquis Doria with Rococo stucco work
- Remains of the Romanesque Church of San Pietro with frescoes and bell tower
- Oratorio dei Neri – elegant Baroque church above the main square
- Starting point of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri
- Blue Flag beach (300 m)
Directions
From Airole via SP64 towards the coast, approx. 8 km. The location is situated on Via Aurelia (SS1) between Ventimiglia and Bordighera. Ventimiglia train station is approximately 4 km away.
Free parking lots in the town center and at the town entrance. Paid parking at the beach during peak season.
Practical Information
Camporosso is a good starting point for excursions into Val Nervia. The local specialty is Barbagiuai – fried ravioli filled with pumpkin, Brusso cheese, and aromatic herbs. The town offers restaurants, bars, and basic infrastructure. In the old town, a stroll through the Caruggi is worthwhile.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. In summer for the beach and Jazz Valley concerts, in spring and autumn for hiking and wildlife observation in the Oasi Faunistica.
Location
18033 Camporosso (IM), Italien
Events
Discover More Activities
The region offers numerous other opportunities for unforgettable experiences.