Cervara Abbey Santa Margherita Ligure
A historic 13th-century abbey with stunning Renaissance gardens and panoramic sea views on the Portofino coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Cervara Abbey Santa Margherita Ligure
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 13th-century abbey with stunning Renaissance gardens and panoramic sea views on the Portofino coast.
"Fabulous place on Portofino mountain, nice terraces and superb sea views."
🚶♀️ Walk to Portofino
Enjoy a beautiful 45-minute walk to Portofino from Santa Margherita Ligure.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stay
Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure for a more affordable and authentic experience than Portofino.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Renaissance Gardens
Terraced gardens overlooking the sea
Stroll through meticulously manicured gardens with breathtaking panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea.
Abbey Architecture
Main abbey building
Admire the historic architecture of this former 13th-century abbey, a testament to centuries of history.
Sea Views
Various viewpoints around the abbey
Experience superb, breathtaking sea views from the abbey's terraces and gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to La Cervara
Getting to La Cervara
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to Portofino
Enjoy a beautiful 45-minute walk to Portofino from Santa Margherita Ligure.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stay
Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure for a more affordable and authentic experience than Portofino.
📸 Stunning Views
The panoramic sea views from the abbey are truly breathtaking and a must-see.
📅 Book Tours Ahead
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to Portofino
Enjoy a beautiful 45-minute walk to Portofino from Santa Margherita Ligure.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stay
Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure for a more affordable and authentic experience than Portofino.
📸 Stunning Views
The panoramic sea views from the abbey are truly breathtaking and a must-see.
📅 Book Tours Ahead
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your visit.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the gardens and potentially hiking from Santa Margherita.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cervara Abbey is widely praised for its exquisite gardens and breathtaking sea views, making it a truly beautiful and memorable location. While many guests have had wonderful experiences, particularly for events, some have reported issues with management regarding unexpected costs and unfriendly staff, leading to a mixed perception of the service.
"Fabulous place on Portofino mountain, nice terraces and superb sea views."
Adrian Sandu
"Beautiful old abbey with its gardens, definetly worth visiting"
MiiaKoi
"La Cervara is one of the most exquisite and beautiful abbeys in the world. The views from the abbey are breathtaking. We were fortunate enough to have our wedding at La Cervara. The staff were very professional and both the wedding and reception were seamless. Our guests thoroughly enjoyed the dinner. The seafood is utterly amazing. If you are looking to get married in the Portofino area, we highly recommend La Cervara."
Phil Schoenborn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Cervara Abbey from Santa Margherita Ligure by taking a scenic 45-minute walk along the coast, or by using the local bus service. Many visitors opt for the walk as it offers beautiful views. +2
Yes, Santa Margherita Ligure is a popular day trip destination from Milan, typically taking about 1 hour by train. This makes it a convenient base for visiting Cervara Abbey and Portofino.
Santa Margherita Ligure is approximately 2 hours away from Switzerland, making it an accessible destination for those traveling from the country.
Santa Margherita Ligure is conveniently located about 45 minutes from the Cinque Terre region by train, making it a great place to stay if you plan to visit both areas.
While driving is possible, parking can be challenging and expensive in the area. Many visitors prefer to use public transport or walk from Santa Margherita Ligure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for entry to Cervara Abbey and its gardens. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or contact the abbey directly for the most up-to-date information on visiting times.
Guided tours are often available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and beauty of the abbey and its gardens. Inquire about tour availability when booking your visit.
The entrance fee typically covers access to both the abbey and its stunning Renaissance gardens. Confirm the pricing when you book your tickets.
While tours are recommended, some visits might allow for independent exploration of certain areas. Check the specific entry policies when purchasing your tickets.
📸 📸 Photography
The terraced gardens offer incredible panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea, making them prime spots for photography. The abbey's architecture itself is also very photogenic. 
Photography rules can vary within historical sites. It's best to check for signage or ask staff on-site about restrictions on photography inside the abbey buildings.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, often provides the most beautiful light for capturing the abbey and its surroundings. Midday can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and private properties due to privacy and safety concerns. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
The views from the upper terraces of the gardens, looking out towards the sea and Portofino, are particularly iconic and highly recommended for memorable photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Cervara Abbey has hosted events and receptions, with guests praising the seafood. However, for casual dining, you might find more options in Santa Margherita Ligure.
For events like weddings, the seafood served at Cervara Abbey has been described as amazing by guests.
Picnicking might not be permitted within the formal gardens. It's best to enjoy meals in designated areas or in Santa Margherita Ligure.
The closest dining options are in Santa Margherita Ligure, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Dining in Portofino itself can be quite expensive. Staying and eating in Santa Margherita Ligure offers a more budget-friendly alternative.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for accommodations in Santa Margherita Ligure, which tend to be more spacious and affordable for families. Pack plenty of snacks and water, especially if you plan on walking or exploring the gardens extensively. The stunning sea views can captivate children, but ensure they are supervised closely near the terraces.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for the scenic walk to Portofino instead of taking taxis or expensive boat transfers. Enjoy the free beaches in Santa Margherita Ligure rather than paying for beach clubs. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs during your explorations.
💖 Couples & Romantics
The walk from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino is also a beautiful, scenic route perfect for couples. Consider staying in Santa Margherita Ligure for a charming and romantic atmosphere that's less crowded and more intimate than Portofino. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the promenade and savoring local Ligurian cuisine together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Santa Margherita Ligure
The town serves as a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas. The walk from Santa Margherita to Portofino is frequently recommended as a highlight, offering stunning coastal scenery and a pleasant way to arrive at the more exclusive destination. This approach allows travelers to experience the beauty of the Italian Riviera without the premium price tag often associated with Portofino itself.
From Santa Margherita, you can also easily access other popular Ligurian destinations. The proximity to the Cinque Terre, just a short train ride away, makes it an ideal location for those wanting to explore multiple iconic Italian spots. This strategic positioning, combined with its inherent charm, makes Santa Margherita Ligure a highly recommended choice for many travelers.
Experiencing La Cervara: Beyond the Abbey
+1The abbey itself, founded in the 13th century, boasts significant historical and architectural value. While some reviews mention negative experiences with management regarding costs and staff friendliness, others rave about the beauty of the location, particularly for events like weddings, praising the professional staff and the quality of the seafood.
For those seeking a tranquil and picturesque experience, the combination of the abbey's historical ambiance and the stunning natural beauty of its gardens provides a unique and memorable visit. It's a place where history meets natural splendor, offering a serene escape with unparalleled vistas.
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