Best things to do in Pietra Ligure

Considered “show caves” for the beauty and accessibility, Grotte di Toirano displays a remarkable karst cave system. Spelunkers found the system in 1950, but they were beaten in time by prehistoric man who found it some 14000 years earlier, and by the cave bear, which left bones, paw prints, and scratches on the walls. The required tour guides speak multiple foreign languages. Wear sensible shoes for potentially slippery walking surfaces, as well as clothes appropriate for 16 C (60 F).

Zip along Liguria's Riviera at Pista Ciclabile Area 24 - Sanremo, 24 km (15 mi) of cycling paths between San Lorenzo and Ospedaletti. The primarily flat path is ideal for all ages and levels of biking experience. You also can explore the repurposed railway line on foot using designated pedestrian lanes. You'll pass through five distinct sections along the coast. Marvel at sweeping views of the Mediterranean as you pop in and out of former train tunnels and stations. Coast through quiet seaside villages dotted with cafes and bars. Rent a bike in nearby towns or along the path.

Walk through the winding alleyways to the shops and restaurants. Flowers and fruit are especially popular produce in the area. Tall stone houses tower over the streets, and there is also an old cathedral featuring impressive frescoes. Check out the archeological and naval museums.

Castello di Grinzane Cavour is known for its history, wine, and restaurant. Take a tour and learn about the history of the castle, as well as local wine making. The tour includes a video and an audio guide (available in English). Explore the castle rooms, many of which house a permanent museum with displays showing 17th- and 19th-century kitchen settings, truffles, a 16th-century distillery, a cask maker’s workshop, and rural life. Stop in and see the Hall of Masks, with a decorated ceiling of 157 panels, containing coats of arms, as well as animals and allegory images made to celebrate the marriage of a past owner of the castle. The restaurant and wine shop are widely known, so make reservations far in advance.

A former ghost town, Old Bussana (Bussana Vecchia) has hosted an artist community since the early 1960s. The 1887 earthquake that caused the abandonment was the first recorded by a true seismograph. The hippies who moved in 70 years later have been served ineffective eviction orders on more than one occasion. The list of current artists names more than 20. Plan your route to arrival carefully as it can be difficult to find. If you don’t have a car, be aware of the 3 km (1.9 mi) uphill hike. You may find that here there is little distinction between a for-pay restaurant and an invitation to dine in someone’s home, which perhaps has a donation box hanging on the door.

While in the scenic spa resort of Acqui Terme, make sure to stop by La Bollente, one of the town's centerpieces. Built in 1870 and designed to resemble a small pavilion, the fountain in the center of the old town constantly produces thermal water that's beneficial to drink or inhale the vapors. Just bear in mind that the water comes out of the fountain at a temperature of about 75 C (167 F) and it can cause burns if you touch it before it cools down. The piazza in front of the fountain is a great place to soak in the atmosphere of the town, have a meal, or enjoy the sight of steaming vapors rising from the fountain on a cool night.

Standing on a hill, Fortezza del Priamar is a fortress built in 1542 that was used as a military prison for many years. As you approach the structure, just a short walk from the dock, stop to admire the architecture. Once inside, you will be able to explore the halls and towers, which offer great views over the ocean. There is also a museum dedicated to the history of the fortress.

Set among Piedmont's hills, WiMu - Museo del Vino a Barolo reveals the history of the region's wine-making industry. Explore the museum's grounds within a historic castle. Join a guided tour to learn about wine's place in myth, legend, literature, and more as you descend through the fortress. Afterward, savor a glass of a local specialty or take part in a tasting session.