Cala dell''oro is the evocative name of this secret place on the Ligurian Riviera. In addition to its beauty, it enjoys a special fame that goes back to stories and legends of times past. It is said that Saracen pirates took shelter in this cove to stock up on provisions, land preyed treasures, and launch attacks on merchant ships.
To counter piracy, in 1561 the Genoese authorities decided to build the ancient tower that remains to this day the only trace of man''s presence in this corner of paradise.
Even many centuries later, smuggling with Corsica was conducted in this impassable area. The legend has it that the fearsome Saracen pirate Dragut, place lieutenant of Barbarossa, sailed his fleet along the Ligurian coast, sacking several cities and taking people into slavery.
It was 1557 when Dragut, after raging over Recco, brought his ships in front of Camogli. He then headed east along the Portofino coast, looking for a place to hide his loot — finding what is now known as the Golden Cove.
Two years later, the fearsome Mediterranean pirate died in combat in Malta during the siege of the fort of St. Elmo, never returning to retrieve his treasure.
How to admire Cala dell''''oro from above, starting from Camogli
A path starts from Camogli that allows you to walk to San Rocco and from there continue to the Bacio Pass. The route unravels through the Camogli countryside and the unspoiled nature of Portofino Park.
JOURNEY TIME: 30 to 60 minutes with regular gait
Once you get to San Rocco, continue along the path toward Mortola locality. Leaving the small village behind, you enter the holm oak forest to arrive, after about 40 minutes, at Batterie — where the view of the Paradise Gulf is splendid.
A few more ups and downs and you arrive at the Bacio Pass where you can finally enjoy the breathtaking view of the Golden Cove.
Warning: access to the cove is forbidden both by sea and land as it is a protected area of Portofino Park. The excursion can continue toward San Fruttuoso di Camogli.
