"Stop rushing. Slow down and enjoy the beauty of life."
-Debasish Mridha
Whether it's hiking, cycling, tennis or a family holiday, Dolceacqua has world class experiences at its doorstep. We encourage and welcome groups to slow down and stay longer whilst enjoying some of these activities.
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We offer complimentary travel and activity planning services... not limited to one single agenda. You tell us what you like, and we will make the recommendations we think would suit you best. Whether that be expert hiking, to gravel biking, to living like a local, to beer and padel, we will make the perfect plan for you.​
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As a family with small and teenage kids, we know how difficult it can be to please everyone. Dolceacqua and the surrounding area offers a lot of choice for different ages, whatever their stage may be.
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In addition to these activities, we invite you to get to know the locals and their culture and way of life. We can make these introductions or give the recommendations you need to gain the most from your stay in Dolceacqua.
For Families
The Italian Riviera is pure pleasure, for every age. We give our top tips and recommendations for endless fun and entertainment.
Water Fun
Un'altra Vita is only 10 minutes' drive from the nearest beach, and here is a list of our favourites around the area.
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Le Calandre- This golden sand beach is an absolute treasure and our favourite. The beach is a tiny strip located at the bottom of a cliff side walk, which is about 10 minutes from the car park above. If you can manage the walk, you won't be disappointed. It features an easy going beach bar/cafe, serving cold beer and fresh sandwiches, and a great atmosphere. It's also got some great little waves, perfect for those who like a little more action. https://ventimiglia.it/ispirati/itinerari-e-percorsi/sentiero-delle-calandre/​​
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Maestrale- This is a great little beach club located on the eastern side of Vemtimiglia. It's the closest beach to the house and we love its relaxed atmosphere. It's got an above ground swimming pool for all customers to use, as well as a bunch of great games such as table tennis and giant chess. The food and drinks are great value and there are also kayaks and SUPs to hire. https://www.instagram.com/maestraleventimiglia/?hl=en
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La Spiaggetta dei Balzi Rossi- Ok, so this is more suited to adults than big families, but the beach is so beautiful we included it anyway. Balzi Rossi is a private beach with daybed service, but if you want to enjoy jumping off the rocks and snorkelling and not paying the crazy prices, you can by putting down a towel on the rocks next door. www.balzirossi.it
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Local Treasures
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Rocchetta Nervina- The beautiful waterfalls of Rocchetta are an area of outstanding natural beauty. The first swimming pool is just a minute or so from the village, so easily accessible for all families including babies. Kids love playing in the crystal clear water and swimming underneath the fall. An old mule track leads you up the river and mountain where the pools get even more isolated and beautiful. Canyoning is a popular activity at this spot, and fantastic to do for families with kids over 12. It's difficult! https://www.rocchettanervina.com/​​
https://www.canyoningliguria.com/
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For Hikers
Sheltered between the densely vegetated hills, you can take beautiful hikes in nature around Dolceacqua and continue for days around the local area. There are a plethora of hiking trails, many directly accessible from the house. Many are old mule tracks, clearly marked and maintained.
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Dolceacqua is situated in one of the best hiking regions in Italy, referred to as Parco Naturale Alpi Liguri. For detailed information on the area, as well as the recommended hikes, visit Ligurian Alps Park | Handmade Nature.
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​For those guests who would like to blend some hikes with local culture, Dolceacqua is the perfect hub. You can hike to waterfalls, ancient villages, rivers and leave plenty of time for a swim, art exhibition and end with an aperitivo on the terrace.​
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Here's a sample agenda which we have used for a group recently:
Day 1- arrival and welcome drink. Local pasta dinner
Day 2- 10km hike to Perinaldo, 500m climb (3 hours) followed by lunch on arrival
Day 3- 9km hike around Rochetta Nervina, 650m climb (4 hours), followed by swim in the waterfalls and local lunch
Day 4- Le Calandre Beach day and dinner in typical Ligurian style
Day 5- 5km hike panoramic Dolceacqua. Departures
Breakfast served on the terrace each morning... and lots of free time to slow down.
Tennis and Padel
Dolceacqua is also home to a wonderful tennis and padel club, a short walk from the house. We can help you organise courts or a coach for your group.
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The club has new padel courts as well as tennis courts, located in beautiful surroundings above the Nervia River. Non members can easily book courts, and we can help put you in touch with the trainers. You may even run into a Formula One driver, some of which come to play at this club.
For Cyclists
Liguria is famous for its cycling and home to the famous Milano San Remo road race. The unique blend of climbs, nature, small villages and outstanding nature in the area ensure world class cycling.
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The roads are winding and endless and from Dolceacqua, it's possible to cycle in all directions- west to France which will take you on roads cycled in the Tour de France- east in the direction of San Remo, and north to the Ligurian hinterland, surrounded by ancient villages and mountains.
The 26km long cycle path "Pista Ciclabile" between San Lorenzo al Mare and Ospedaletti is one of the longest on the Mediterranean, and only accessible to hikers and cyclist. The route passes through many small towns along the picturesque coast. It is suitable for families and inexperienced cyclists. ​
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We can assist with guides, programs, the best routes and offer hosting services and breakfasts if you require. Made to measure experiences based on your requirements and tastes. Just ask.
