Parco Naturale Regionale di Montemarcello-Magra-Vara
Just 15 km south of La Spezia, the Montemarcello-Magra-Vara Regional Park protects a dramatic wedge of coastline and river valley that feels a world away from the Cinque Terre crowds — limestone headlands, macchia scrubland, ancient mule tracks and the wide, bird-rich estuary of the Magra river all within easy reach of the city by bus or bike.
The Montemarcello Headland
The hilltop village of Montemarcello (reached by bus from La Spezia's bus terminal in about 40 minutes) sits at 300 m above sea level with views south to the Versilia coast and Forte dei Marmi and north across the gulf to Portovenere. The village itself is a perfectly preserved medieval cluster of stone houses with a single bar — order a coffee and stay longer than planned.
From Montemarcello a network of marked trails descends through holm oak forest to the tiny beach at Punta Corvo — accessible only on foot, a 45-minute descent each way, and consistently rated one of the most beautiful and least-visited beaches on the entire Ligurian coast. Pebbles, crystalline water, no facilities: bring everything you need.
The Magra Estuary and Birdwatching
The mouth of the Magra river at Bocca di Magra is one of the most important wetland habitats in northwest Italy, attracting herons, egrets, ospreys and migrating waders in spring and autumn. The village of Bocca di Magra itself is a quietly charming cluster of fishermen's houses with excellent seafood restaurants on the waterfront.
Canoe rental is available in the village of Ameglia upstream, allowing a gentle paddle through the reed beds with views of the Apuan Alps above — one of the most serene experiences available within an hour of La Spezia.
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