East of Genoa, the Ligurian regional capital, the Italian Riviera is studded with picturesque fishing villages and small seaside towns – the world-famous Cinque Terre villages, Portofino and pleasant towns such as Sestri Levante, Rapallo and Camogli. West of the capital many popular resort towns – Alassio, Diano Marina, Bordighera, etc – have grown out of centuries-old villages in such a way that the really old part of the village has often been completely dwarfed by modern hotels, shops, busy roads and so on. Sometimes it is barely clear where one town ends and the next begins.
Flanked by valleys on both sides, Cervo has happily remained detached from its neighbours and has retained its semi-rural setting. As well as its innate attractiveness, the village has a fascinating history. Evidence remains of its enterprising beginnings as a ‘service centre’ during the construction of the Roman road 2,000 odd years ago, through to its prosperity thanks to the coral fishermen, followed by its popularity today as a destination for discerning tourists. Cervo occupies a steep headland so a visit requires a certain amount of energy. The effort is rewarded many times over by the village’s beauty, its interesting sites and the unspoiled natural woodlands that surround it. This small booklet is designed as an insightful visitor’s companion guide.
Flanked by valleys on both sides, Cervo has happily remained detached from its neighbours and has retained its semi-rural setting. As well as its innate attractiveness, the village has a fascinating history. Evidence remains of its enterprising beginnings as a ‘service centre’ during the construction of the Roman road 2,000 odd years ago, through to its prosperity thanks to the coral fishermen, followed by its popularity today as a destination for discerning tourists. Cervo occupies a steep headland so a visit requires a certain amount of energy. The effort is rewarded many times over by the village’s beauty, its interesting sites and the unspoiled natural woodlands that surround it. This small booklet is designed as an insightful visitor’s companion guide.
