Accessible only by sea or a steep trail, the 13th-century Benedictine abbey of San Fruttuoso is one of Liguria's most dramatic secrets — nestled between jungle-green cliffs and an impossibly blue bay. Arrive by private boat and have the cove nearly to yourself before the day-trippers arrive.
What to expect
Your boat rounds the Portofino promontory and slides into the horseshoe bay of San Fruttuoso, where an ancient tower and the ochre-walled abbey rise straight from the pebble shore. Swim in jade-clear water above the famous bronze 'Christ of the Abyss' statue (visible to snorkellers at 17m depth). Tour the abbey's cool Romanesque cloisters and the Doria family mausoleum before enjoying a seafood lunch at one of the tiny beachside trattorias.
Good to know
Abbey entry is approximately EUR 5 per person, paid separately on-site. Bring snorkel gear for the Christ of the Abyss — rentals are available on the beach. Allow a full half-day; departure from Santa Margherita Ligure or Camogli. Book the private boat option for maximum flexibility.