A Day Trip To Pigna, Italy: Liguria’s Hidden Gem

The small village of Pigna, in northwest Italy, will leave you breathless. And if you’re searching for one of Liguria’s hidden gems, this is it! This remote town was one of the final stops we made while exploring Italy in our campervan, and it was the perfect place to end our eight-week road trip.

A day trip to Pigna is an unimaginable place thanks to its unique architecture, which will take you on a journey through gloomy and mysterious alleyways. The old town, known as Chibi, has steep, narrow lanes and stairways that meander around looming medieval buildings. 

It was like nothing we’d ever seen before, and we were left in awe. Pigna Italy is a great place, and although small, there are enough attractions to make a day trip worthwhile. 

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Discover The Idyllic Town Of Pigna, Italy – One Of Liguria’s Mountain Treasures

In this guide, I’m sharing our day trip to Pigna, Italy. I’m including why we think it’s somewhere worth visiting and also covering the following topics:

• Top activities and attractions in Pigna.
• When you should visit Pigna and for how long.
• Practical travel information, such as where to stay, how to get there, and places to eat to help you plan your trip and itinerary.

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Is Pigna Italy Worth Visiting?

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian town that is flying under the radar of most tourists, then Pigna is 100% worth visiting. It’s small, don’t get me wrong, and you can see all the attractions in Pigna in one day, but it’s such a quaint village that you might end up staying longer. 

If we hadn’t run out of time, we would have happily stayed a few extra days in Pigna and used it as a base to explore the rest of the Nervia Valley. It’s a charming place in Liguria. 

We visited Pigna during the last leg of our road trip. After spending eight weeks driving around Piedmont, Tuscany, and Liguria, it’s safe to say it was one of the most interesting places we visited in Italy.

The village is slowly becoming abandoned, and although not really a good thing, it added a rustic, ancient charm to our visit. The half-crumbing buildings that towered above us made it seem alien, and as we meandered through the Chibi, we became fascinated.

The village has an ancient history, and evidence of prehistoric settlements has been found; it’s a shame that the forest is slowly reclaiming it. However, it still stands today, and if you’re searching for a tranquil retreat, Pigna is definitely worth considering.

Who Will Love A Day Trip To Pigna, Italy?

If you love authentic Italian culture and nature, you’ll love Pigna. It’s a peaceful, quaint place surrounded by alpine forest, with a river running along the valley floor. The village has a magnificent waterfall falling between it and some lovely oak trees. There are a number of hiking routes, and the smaller nearby village of Castel Vittorio is worth adding to the itinerary.

Interested In A Day Trip To The Nervia Valley?

Since Pigna is off-the-beaten-track, the nearest town featured on day trips is Dolceacqua. Most tours depart from Sanremo or Nice (France), but you’ll still get to experience authentic Italian life. Dolceacqua is lovely; we’ve written a guide here!

I’ve listed the two best options below for you to consider.

• From Sanremo: This half-day, small-group tour (up to 6 people) provides the perfect trip to discover Dolceacqua. You’ll get to see the Castello dei Doria, admire “Monet’s Bridge,” and finish by sampling two local wines.

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Why You Should Visit Pigna, Italy

I think Pigna is great and worth visiting. A handful of attractions make a day trip entertaining, and if you’re in northwest Liguria, definitely consider putting a day aside for this little gem. Here’s what you can do in Pigna, Italy.

1. Authentic Ancient Town With Waterfall

One of Pigna’s top attractions is the village itself. It’s a unique place nestled on the slopes of the Nervia Valley and is not your typical picturesque village – by which I mean perfect, well-kept and sparkling – Pigna is more like a dark, grungy place. It’s authentic, to say the least, and gives you a genuine glimpse into medieval life.

That said, it’s still a beautiful place in its own right, with a stunning waterfall falling through its core. When we visited in November, the oak trees had begun changing to hues of golden yellow, and although chilly, the views over the valley remained just as wonderful as they would have been in summer. Pigna is a place for naturalists, for sure! 

2. The Chibi & Piazza XX Settembre

Let’s dive deeper into the town itself. “Pigna” translates to “Pine Cone”, representing the surrounding pine forest. The village was designed in a pine shape of sorts, with the main roads forming a layer of semicircles. The Chibi – the dark and narrow steep lanes – crisscross through the “pine”, creating this outstanding but eerie labyrinth that dominates the old town.

Although I’m sure they exist elsewhere – for example, Dolceacqua and Sanremo have similar old towns – we’d never seen the Chibi to this extent. It was quite fascinating. Imagine thin cobbled alleyways and dark tunnels weaving around towering stone buildings with tiny doors and smaller windows.

Another reason to visit Pigna is the views from the main piazza – Piazza XX Settembre. There is a restaurant here called Dalle Ciuette (Google Maps) with alfresco seating and an unobstructed view overlooking the valley. 

3. The Churches

Italy’s Pigna is home to several churches and shrines. The main church is Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Michele Arcangelo (Google Maps), located in the centre of town near Piazza XX Settembre. Unlike most churches in Italy we encountered, it’s not covered head to toe in ornate decoration but remains humble. There are still paintings hanging on the walls, but the crowning glory is the 1500s polyptych by Giovanni Canavesio. There’s also a lovely rose window above the entrance.

Next up is Chiesa di San Bernardo (Google Maps). It’s about a ten-minute walk from Piazza XX Settembre on the outskirts of Pigna, but it is the original church built in the 13th century. Inside the church, Giovanni Canavesio’s frescoes on the Passion and the Final Judgment from the early 1460s are on display.

Another one worth visiting is Oratorio di Sant’Antonio Abate. It was quite dilapidated, but we could see that the Baroque facade would have been lovely in its heyday. Unfortunately, it was closed so that we couldn’t enter. It’s next to Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Michele Arcangelo in the main piazza.

4. The Bridges

I love a stone bridge, and Italy is just full of them; on the drive to Pigna, we passed a number of magnificent bridges. The Ponte Medievale (Google Maps) is a bridge just outside Pigna, and you’ll pass it on the road. We meant to stop on the way back but forgot! From memory, it was picturesque and would have provided lovely views through the valley.

Ponte della Giaira (Google Maps) is another bridge in town over the River Nervia. We visited this one and managed to get a lovely photo of Jack looking out. The views of the valley were breathtaking, and it’s a great place to snap a photo with a line of oak trees along the bank!

Finally, check out Rio Carne (Google Maps). Unfortunately, we completely missed this spot, and actually, there is a swimming hole here (completely gutted). Although November might have been too cold for a dip, I’m sure the views would have been scenic. Don’t miss out like us; add this place to your itinerary.

5.  Laghetti Del Rio Carne Swimming Spot

From what I can see, this idyllic swimming spot – Laghetti Del Rio Carne (Google Maps) – is a beautiful place. Pigna is known for its thermal baths (the central Pigna Thermae Hotel appeared to be abandoned entirely when we visited). Still, I wonder if this swimming spot has any healing properties. 

Either way, the pictures show a wild and peaceful spot. However, I imagine it would get busy in the summer, so arrive early. There is also limited parking; I suggest walking from Pigna, 17 minutes from Piazza XX Settembre. Along the way, you’ll pass La Grotta della Madonna di Lourdes.

6. La Grotta della Madonna di Lourdes

We did visit La Grotta della Madonna di Lourdes (Google Maps), which is a really interesting place. It’s on the path to San Bernardo Church mentioned above and features a small chapel inside a cave dedicated to the Madonna. 

Inside, there were ornaments, a few photos, some candles, and a small altar. What made it truly special was its location: It sits above the village along a stone path surrounded by stunning views.

There was no one else there when we visited; in fact, most of Pigna was deserted in early November. For us, the chapel was a peaceful place, and it was worth the climb, especially if you’re heading to San Bernardo Church. There is also Pigna Cementary (Google Maps) along this route and Rio Carne Swimming Spot.

7. Passoscio Shrine Hike

If you fancy a longer hike into the forest and along an ancient mule track, turn off the path northwards from La Grotta della Madonna di Lourdes and hike to Passoscio Shrine. The shrine was a sanctuary for Pigna’s inhabitants and is about an hour’s walk from town.

There’s an interesting story attached to this chapel, which is best explained here on Liguria WOW. Along the way, you will encounter a processional route with 12 chapels recalling the stages of Jesus Christ’s life and passion.

 8. Museo del Cibo dell’Alta Val Nervia/ The Land And Memory Museum

When we arrived, the Heritage Museum of Cibo dell’Alta Val Nervia (Google Maps) was closed. However, located underneath the Piazza XX Settembre, the museum, which opened in 1995, showcases the rural civilisation of Alta Val Nervia and its knowledge and practices. 

Exhibits include objects, tools, documents, and photographs related to pastoral activity, farming, craftsmanship, and traditions. The museum aims to emphasise the strong connection between each artefact and its associated activity, as documented in ancient parchments.

9. Annual Festivals

There are several festivals and fairs held throughout the year in Pigna, which represent the area’s heritage; however, most fall during the warmer summer and autumn months. 

To name a few, the Festival of Poetry and Comedy Intemelia, held in July, celebrates the local dialect through songs, plays and comedy shows. To honour typical Pigna Italian products, such as mushrooms, extra virgin oil and ravioli, the Raviolata di San Tiberio Festival is also held in July.

The Mushroom Festival, held in September/October, is one of Pigna’s most significant affairs. It celebrates the spectacular array of wild mushrooms harvested and cooked from the forest. 

10. The Hamlet Of Buggio

Although not in Pigna, Italy, if you’ve decided to stay for longer than a day trip, consider a visit to Buggio (Google Maps). The hamlet is all but abandoned but provides a peaceful and scenic escape with breathtaking views over the landscape. A few points of interest include the small square, Via Burga and the Baroque-fronted Parish Church of St. John the Baptist (Google Maps).

It’s also a great starting place for numerous hikes into the Parco Alpi Liguri.

11. Explore Ligurian Alps Regional Nature Park

The Nervia Valley and Natural Regional Park of the Ligurian Alps offers many opportunities for day excursions and walks. Pigna is situated within the Ligurian Alps Nature Park, which spans over 6,000 hectares and is home to several Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs). 

If you’re a nature lover, Pigna (and Buggio) offer stunning hiking trails. From Pigna, you can hike to the peaks of Mount Grai, Toraggio, and Pietra Vecchia, also known as the “little Dolomites of Liguria.” Mount Saccarello, the highest peak in Liguria, is a must-visit destination. It offers breathtaking views of rhododendron blooms, beech forests, and rare botanical species.

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re interested in hiking, download the Alltrails App. We use it all the time, and it’s a great way to find trails worldwide. There are several trails around Pigna, Italy, and there is a free version to use. Check out Alltrails.

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When Is Pigna Worth Visiting? 

We were there in November, and the town was quite deserted. I’m sure it will liven up during the summer months, but for us, this emptiness just added to its charm. We also arrived during a downpour and spent our evening admiring Pigna from the window.

The next morning, we were blessed with a bright day. However, few places were open, and most shops were closed for the season. Most restaurants open only in the afternoon. Visiting off-season has its pros and cons, but it meant we had more time to admire the scenery. 

For a complete weather guide to Italy, we’ve written a month-by-month guide here. 

WINTER

Average Temps: Highs/Lows

• December: 11°C/6°C (52°F/43°F)
• January: 11°C/5°C (52°F/41°F)
• February: 11°C/5°C (52°F/41°F)

Since temperatures remain mild, Pinga can be visited during the winter months, although it is not the best time since most of the restaurants and shops will be closed for the winter season. The nature trails remain open; however, wet weather can make them dangerous and bogged down, so long hikes are best avoided. 

SPRING

Average Temps: Highs/Lows

• March: 12°C/7°C (54°F/45°F)
• April: 14°C/9°C (57°F/48°F)
• May: 19°C/13°C (66°F/55°F)

Spring is going to be a lovely time to visit Pigna and Nervia Valley. Preferably, plan your trip for late spring, when the weather is warmer, and all the beautiful flowers are in bloom. The trails will be dryer and safer, and accommodation will remain more affordable.

SUMMER

Average Temps: Highs/Lows

• June: 22°C/16°C (72°F/61°F)
• July: 24°C/18°C (75°F/64°F)
• August: 25°C/19°C  (77°F/66°F)

Summer is definitely the best time to visit Italy’s Pigna. Since the village is remote and off the tourist trail, I wonder if it ever gets too crowded. However, during this period, when the region’s main festivals are held, there will be more visitors and a lively atmosphere.

AUTUMN

Average Temps: Highs/Lows

• September: 22°C/16°C (72°F/61°F)
• October: 18°C/13°C (64°F/55°F)
• November: 14°C/8°C (57°F/46°F)

Another great time to visit Pigna is autumn. It was a little late in the season for us, so I suggest September and early October for better weather and a better summer atmosphere. Be sure to check out the Mushroom Festival.

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How Long Should You Stay In Pigna, Italy?

The amount of time you should spend in Italy’s Pinga really depends on your purpose for visiting. If, like us, you just want to experience the village and the Chibi and aimlessly wander around the attractions, a day is plenty enough.

However, if you add in a couple of hikes, visit the swimming hole, and enjoy a number of restaurants, you could easily spend three or more days in Pigna. 

Consider what activities you want to do while in the Nervia Valley. Pigna would be a good base for exploring the nearby villages, such as Dolceaqcua, Castel Vittorio, Apricale, and Buggio.

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Planning Your Day Trip To Pigna, Italy

Are you ready to book your trip? I’ve put together a quick travel guide to help you plan! This includes practical information on getting to Pigna from around Italy, ideas on where to stay, where to eat and when to visit for a fantastic trip.

How To Get To Pigna, Italy

We travelled through the Nervia Valley and visited Pigna in our campervan – a jumbo self-converted Ford Transit – which we drove around Italy for eight weeks. Northwest Liguria was our final destination before heading into France, and it made exploring the area much more straightforward. 

If you don’t have your own car, I recommend renting one. This is the best way to explore the region, especially since many of the villages are so remote. However, you can also use the local bus service and trains.

Car Rental: I use DISCOVER CARS when I’m looking for a car rental. They compare hundreds of dealerships and have zero hidden charges.
Read my full Discover Cars review here.

SELF DRIVE

Although remote, Pigna is easily accessible from the motorway, which runs along the Ligurian coast. If you’re coming from Genoa, it’s about 185 km and should take roughly 2 hrs 40 mins along the A10/E80. Exit Ventimiglia at E74 and take SS20. Take SS20 and SS1 to SP64 to Pigna.

There is one car park, which is off the main road at the bottom of the village; this is where we camped for the night: Parkplatz (Google Maps)

TRAIN

The Italian Riviera has a good train network, and most towns along the coast are connected. Since Pigna is inland, you’ll need to travel by bus for the final leg. However, depending on where you’re leaving from, you can combine bus and train travel.

The nearest train will drop you at Ventimiglia train station, which is about 20 km away.

Train Travel: I use the Trainline to book your train tickets in advance, and you’ll save money! Trainline is available all over Europe and the United Kingdom. Find trains here.

BUS

As for the bus, the Rivera Transporti Line 7 will take you from Ventimiglia to Pigna. If you prefer to use the bus for the entire journey, Flexibus serves Liguria and runs various lines throughout the region. 

PLANE

The closest airport to Pigna is in Nice, which is around 60 km away. However, if you prefer an Italian airport, you’ll want to fly into Genoa. 

BOOKED EXCURSIONS

Helpful Accommodation Ideas

Pigna has only a handful of accommodation options, mostly bed and breakfasts, apartments, and guesthouses. Since the Pigna Thermae Hotel closed down, no traditional hotels remain. This is a more intimate town, cute and cosy, perfect for an authentic Italian escape.

Where To Eat And Drink?

There are a handful of beautiful places to eat and drink in Pigna, most of which have stunning views of the valley.

• Dalle Ciuette: Gastronomic dishes, friendly, polite, and welcoming. The view is perfect in a well-kept location.
• Federico Lanteri all’Osteria Martini: Nice classic style restaurant with quality food
• Bar Vineria Dal “Giuara”: A nice little cafe/bar in the centre of town with outside seating.
• Desir de Roy: A small local cafe serving light snacks and drinks. 
• Sul Ponte: A hotel, bar, and restaurant-pizzeria are on the main road.
• Agriturismo “Le caprette del Parco”: Traditional dishes using local produce, amazing service, and delicious food.

In Summary: Pigna, Italy

As always, I would like to finish my articles with my final thoughts about Pigna and why it’s a place worth adding to your Italy itinerary. For starters, we simply loved the peacefulness of the village. It’s unique old town, stunning views, and friendly locals (of whom we saw maybe three) greeted us with a warm smile and wave. 

The location is perfect, and although it is not completely isolated from civilisation, it feels incredibly remote. With the Nervia Valley as a backdrop, it’s a breathtaking place to spend a few nights. If you have time, be sure to go hiking, visit the swimming spot, and try some fabulous Ligurian cuisine. 

I’d love to revisit this region and explore more of the picture-perfect villages nestled into the hillside.