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 Introduction
A secluded village in the Ligurian hills, Bonassola is a treasure of a destination. Two rocky promontories protect the little town, La Punta del Carlino, and La Madonnina della Punta. Covered by olive trees, oleanders, bouganvillea, citrus groves, and many other typical Mediterranean flora and fauna, the region is a natural oasis on the coast.
The wonderful beach boasts clear blue waters that resemble the tropics. And aside from lying in the sand, and swimming in the sea, there are many ways to enjoy the gifts of this town, including fishing, canoeing, windsurfing, and simply walking through its verdant trails and along its dramatic coast.
The air in Bonassola is exceptionally clean, the result of a unique combination of pine trees, and salty seas. A trip to this magical town is in fact considered to be a natural cure for heart and lung ailments.
Visitors might like to take an excursion to the towns of the Cinque Terre, or Levanto, one of the best surf spots in Italy.
 Arrival
Plane
Genoa's, (GOA) Aeroporto Di Genova is 80 km from Bonassola, and accommodates flights from around Italy, as well as many international cities. Ryanair runs direct flights from London Stanstead to Genoa, and Lufthansa operates three daily flights out of Munich. Another option is the airport in Pisa, 120 km south.
Train
Take the Rome line from Genoa and get off at Bonassola. The journey takes one hour and twenty minutes. From Pisa, the train takes an hour and forty-five minutes. Change at La Spezia.
Car
From Genoa, take the A12 motorway and exit at Carrodano. Follow the road to Levanto. From La Spezia, follow coastal road 370 toward Cinque Terre.
 History and Culture
Founded by the Tigullian people from the villages of Montaretto and Reggimonti, in the eleventh century, Bonassola's past is quite unique. The first Italian social security was established here in the 16th century. It's intent was to rescue the prisoners of pirates. Wine production has always been a viable industry in the region, and trade and shipping were major industries for the town in the 19th century, when there was a great sailing fleet. The famous cartographer Matteo Vinzoni was born in Bonassola on December 6, 1690. And it is said that F. Scott Fitzgerald spent some time in the town, translating the works of Homer.
 Churches and Museums
Santa Caterina's Church
This parish church was built in 1670. Its baroque interior is full of interesting decorations including paintings by Bernardo Strozzi, G.B. Carlone, and Antonio Discovolo, created in the 1600s. There is also an organ built by Lingiardi in 1854, and plenty of votive offerings made by sailors.
Church of Punta della Madonnina
This 17th century church is situated on the edge of the Punta della Madonnina, one of two rocky promontories that border Bonassola. One kilometer from the town center, the church can be reached by following the carriage road, passed the cemetary. The views are outstanding.
Galleria d'Arte Moderna
Housed in the city hall, this museum features works by artists from the Ligurian region including Antonio Discovolo and Orlando Grosso.
 Historical Buildings and Monuments
Castle
Built by the Castruccio Castracani order of Antelminelli, in the 16th century, the ruins of the castle can still be seen, though it was mostly destroyed in 1963 to make way for the new rail line.
Matteo Vinzoni's House
The famous 18th century cartographer Matteo Vinzoni was born in Bonassola on December 6, 1690, and today you can see his house.
 Places of Interest
Bagni San Giorgio
Why come to Bonassola if not to take a dip in its sea and soak up its sun? The Bagni San Giorgio, founded in 1924 is Bonassola's oldest bathing establishment. Two hundred and twenty wooden cabins are available to rent, as are red and blue lounge chairs and umbrellas. A snack bar provides refreshments.
Bagno Sabbia d'Oro
This bathing establishment on the beach of Bonassola has aquamarine lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent. There's a full service restaurant on site.
The Hills
Over 40 km of hiking trails wind through the hills surrounding Bonassola. Aromatic herbs and flowers grow everywhere. Keep an eye out for the Santolina Lingustica, a plant unique to the area. Full of wonderful vegetation, the landscape is extraordinary, and the panoramic views are not to be missed. It is even possible to get to Cinque Terre by foot. Be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water.
Botanical Garden
Plants of many exotic varieties from all over the world are on view at the botanical garden at the Villa Peverati. Near Punta della Madonnina, guided tours are available.
 Events
Feast of the Corpus Christi - June 1
Markets fill the city streets, and decorations and floral mosaics can be found everywhere during this important feast day.
Award The Ucca - August
Each year a group of hooded villagers parade through the streets of Bonassola to the sports field. There, they tease the locals who did something particularly disagreeable that year.
Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary - October
For this special celebration held the first Sunday in October, a procession begins at Our Lady of Punta church, and continues to the sea, where fireworks are set off.
 Links
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