Portofino - Olmi - Gave - Paraggi - Portofino

Short and easy hike in the Portofino Park starting from Portofino harbour, best reached by public transport, either by bus or ferry from Santa Margherita Ligure.

The trail begins in front of the Church of San Martino, at the entrance of the village, following the pedestrian path that climbs towards Portofino Vetta: an uphill route, at times quite steep, winding between high stone walls behind which elegant villas and carefully maintained gardens can be glimpsed.

This first section of the itinerary offers beautiful views over the Gulf of Tigullio and the bay of Paraggi.

The wide and well-maintained service road* passes through the small hamlet of San Sebastiano, recognizable by its red church, before continuing uphill through olive terraces to a crossroads where a small picnic area with tables and benches has been set up.

Follow the trail marker uphill through olive groves until reaching Olmi (250 m), where the main path is left behind by turning right towards Nozarego.

The mostly level trail passes by the Mulino del Gassetta (252 m), an old mill converted into an eco-museum with a refreshment area. Here you will also find picnic tables, benches and a drinking water fountain.
The route continues through open countryside alternating with shaded woodland sections, passing a small chapel dedicated to Saint Anne near a few scattered houses.
The descent continues along the ancient mule track, lined with traditional Ligurian country houses, many of them carefully restored, until reaching Cappelletta delle Gave (168 m), home to the small chapel of the same name.
There is also a drinking water fountain here.

Keep right to follow the steep mule track descending through terraces, dry-stone walls and scattered houses, reaching the parking area of Paraggi in about 20 minutes, beside a hotel.

After a short stretch along the road, on the right-hand side, you will find the entrance to the famous “Passeggiata dei Baci”, a scenic green walkway running above the coastal road and connecting Paraggi with Portofino.
After a few ups and downs, the path becomes mostly flat before descending towards the renowned Ligurian village.

The arrival in Portofino is announced by spectacular views over the bay filled with luxury yachts, Castello Brown and the famous little harbour square; the route ends in front of the Church of San Martino.

*Road reserved for local residents, accessible only by scooters or small vehicles.