
Isola di Bergeggi Marine Protected Area
A protected marine area featuring a historic island with ancient ruins, offering stunning coastal views and underwater exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Explosion of colors

Isola di Bergeggi Marine Protected Area
Best Time
Explosion of colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected marine area featuring a historic island with ancient ruins, offering stunning coastal views and underwater exploration.
"A stunning islet just off the coast, a seagull paradise with spectacular sunrise and sunset hues."

🌅 Sunrise/Sunset Spectacle
Watch the island glow with color from Spotorno beach. Truly magical!
🤿 Dive into Marine Wonders
The protected waters teem with life. Perfect for divers and snorkelers.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Isola di Bergeggi Views
Mainland beaches of Bergeggi and Spotorno
A stunning islet with ruins, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset views. A haven for seagulls.

Diving & Snorkeling
Marine Protected Area surrounding the island
Explore vibrant underwater life including octopuses, scorpions, and moray eels.

Swim the Island Event
Spotorno Beach
An annual October swimming event from Spotorno to the heart-shaped island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Best Viewing Spots
Marine Life & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunrise/Sunset Spectacle
Watch the island glow with color from Spotorno beach. Truly magical!
🤿 Dive into Marine Wonders
The protected waters teem with life. Perfect for divers and snorkelers.
🏊♀️ Join the Swim Event
Participate in the 'Swim the Island' event in October for a unique experience.
📸 Mainland Views are Key
Best island views are from Bergeggi & Spotorno beaches; landing on the island is restricted.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunrise/Sunset Spectacle
Watch the island glow with color from Spotorno beach. Truly magical!
🤿 Dive into Marine Wonders
The protected waters teem with life. Perfect for divers and snorkelers.
🏊♀️ Join the Swim Event
Participate in the 'Swim the Island' event in October for a unique experience.
📸 Mainland Views are Key
Best island views are from Bergeggi & Spotorno beaches; landing on the island is restricted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Isola di Bergeggi, particularly its picturesque views from the mainland beaches during sunrise and sunset. The surrounding marine protected area is a highlight for divers and snorkelers, offering a glimpse into vibrant underwater life. While direct access to the island is limited, its scenic presence and the annual 'Swim the Island' event make it a cherished spot.
"great Bergeggi area with the marine protected area at the Island"
Edoardo Faletti
"A stunning islet just off the coast near the town of the same name. A stunning sight in the morning and evening, with its reddish and violet hues. A seagull paradise."
Pascal McLee
"Swim the island 2019: a well-organized free swimming event, held in October, starting from the beach of Spotorno, and featuring the heart-shaped island of Bergeggi. The courses are of different km, suitable for all ages."
Luana Ferrari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You cannot land on the island itself. The best way to experience Isola di Bergeggi is from the mainland beaches of Bergeggi and Spotorno. These towns are accessible by car or public transport. From Genoa or Savona, you can take a train to Spotorno-Noli station.
The most popular way to see the island is from the beaches of Bergeggi and Spotorno. Many visitors enjoy watching the sunrise or sunset from these vantage points for stunning photographic opportunities.
While direct landing on the island is restricted, some local boat tours might offer scenic trips around the island. It's best to inquire locally about available options.
Swimming to the island is possible for strong swimmers, but it's within a marine protected area, so be mindful of regulations. The annual 'Swim the Island' event in October is a popular organized way to swim near it.
The closest towns are Bergeggi and Spotorno, both offering excellent views of the island and access to beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to view the island from the mainland. Access to the marine protected area for activities like diving may have specific regulations or fees, so check with local dive centers.
The island can be viewed at any time from the mainland beaches. However, sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography.
While viewing from the shore is free, activities within the Marine Protected Area, such as diving, might require permits or fees. It's advisable to confirm with local authorities or dive operators.
Access to the island itself is generally restricted to protect its natural and historical significance. Visitors typically admire the island from the mainland.
The 'Swim the Island' event in October is a well-organized swimming race, and participation usually involves an entry fee. Details are typically announced closer to the event date.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activities revolve around admiring the island's beauty from the mainland, diving or snorkeling in the surrounding protected waters, and enjoying the beaches of Bergeggi and Spotorno.
The Marine Protected Area is home to a variety of marine life, including octopuses, scorpions, and moray eels, making it a great spot for underwater exploration.
Yes, the island features the ruins of a 4th-century church, a monastery, and a watchtower, adding historical intrigue to its natural beauty.
Cala Smeralda, Baia delle Sirene, and Cala degli Inglesi are beautiful beaches near Bergeggi, though Baia delle Sirene is only accessible by water due to past storm damage.
Absolutely! The island offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light creates a spectacular display of colors.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are considered the prime times for photography, offering a dramatic interplay of light and color on the island and surrounding waters.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the island in its coastal setting. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the ruins or wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
The beaches of Bergeggi and Spotorno offer excellent, unobstructed views. Look for elevated spots along the coastline for potentially more dramatic perspectives.
Drone usage may be restricted in marine protected areas and near islands. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Popular shots include panoramic views of the island from the mainland, close-ups of the ruins, and shots capturing the vibrant marine life during dives or swims.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐠 Dive Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Marine Protected Area
The MPA is crucial for maintaining the health of the Mediterranean ecosystem. It allows marine populations to thrive, offering a unique opportunity for underwater enthusiasts to witness nature's beauty up close. Remember to follow all guidelines and respect the protected environment during your visit.
Historical Significance of the Island
While direct access to the island is limited, the visible ruins from the mainland add a layer of intrigue to its already captivating presence. They serve as a reminder of the island's long and varied history, from ancient times to its more recent past.
The 'Swim the Island' Event
This event is a fantastic opportunity to experience the area actively. It combines a love for the sea with a chance to explore the coastline in a memorable way. Keep an eye out for registration details if you're planning to participate in future editions.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit