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Explore Tellaro: A Beautiful Seaside Italian Village

Escape the Cinque Terre crowds at this quiet village

· 6 min read

If you're looking for a charming and peaceful destination in Italy, away from the crowds of bigger cities, look no further than Tellaro. This idyllic village, nestled on the Ligurian coast, offers breathtaking views, delicious food, and a rich history waiting to be discovered. If you are looking for views similar to (or maybe, better than?) Cinque Terre, but want to do away with the crowds, consider visiting Tellaro as an alternative.

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Source: Davide Papalini

Discovering the Charm of Tellaro

The village of Tellaro dates back to the Roman Empire and was originally built as a fishing village. In the Middle Ages, it became an important center for the silk trade, and its proximity to the sea allowed for easy transportation of goods. Today, Tellaro remains a small fishing village, but its rich history is still visible in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.

One of the first things you'll notice about Tellaro is its quaint layout. The village is built on a series of narrow alleys and stairways that wind their way around the hillside, leading you to unexpected viewpoints and hidden corners. Each corner of the village offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape, from stunning views of the sea to peaceful gardens dotted with flowers and greenery. The houses are painted in vibrant colors, adding to the charm of the village. You'll also notice that many of the houses have small balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the sea.

Source: Davide Papalini
Source: Davide Papalini

As you continue to wander the village, you'll come across a small harbor filled with colorful fishing boats. The harbor is still used by local fishermen, who bring in fresh seafood every day. You can even purchase some of the catch of the day from the fishermen themselves.

Top Attractions and Activities in Tellaro

Tellaro, a charming village located on the Ligurian coast, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and traditions of Italy. If you are looking for many exciting things to do or attractions to visit, then Tellaro might not be for you. But if your idea of a perfect holiday is to slow down, just be there, and to idly explore a new place, then Tellaro would be a great destination for you.

So if you are visiting Telalro, here are some of the key activities that you could consider doing in Tellaro:

Strolling Through the Old Town

One of the best ways to experience Tellaro is simply by wandering around the old town. The narrow streets and colorful houses are a photographer's dream, and every corner you turn offers a new surprise. As you stroll through the streets, take the time to admire the unique architecture and design of the buildings. Be sure to keep an eye out for the beautiful frescoes and elaborate doorways that decorate many of the buildings. You might even stumble upon a hidden piazza or a quaint café where you can stop for a coffee or gelato.

Exploring the Nearby Beaches

Tellaro is located on the Ligurian coast, which means that it has some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Well- there are technically no beaches in the village itself, there are a number of beaches near the village. And if you don't want to travel out of the village but want to enjoy the sun, you can also choose to sunbathe along the rocky coastlines.

Source: Fiascherino Beach
Source: Fiascherino Beach

One of the best beaches near Tellaro is Spiaggia di Fiascherino, a small but stunning beach that's perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Or if you are feeling exploratory and want to venture out farther, you can choose to visit the San Terenzo Beach.

Hiking in the Surrounding Hills

If you're a fan of hiking, you'll love the surrounding hills of Tellaro. The hills are dotted with trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes, and each offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're interested in a leisurely walk through olive groves and vineyards or a more strenuous climb to a panoramic viewpoint, there's a trail for you. Along the way, you'll encounter local wildlife and flora, as well as historic ruins and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the area's past. Be sure to bring your camera along, as there's plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Visiting the Church of San Giorgio

Source: Local Aromas
Source: Local Aromas

The Church of San Giorgio is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tellaro, and for good reason. The church is perched atop a rocky outcrop that offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding scenery. Inside, you'll find beautiful frescoes and intricate detailing that represent centuries of local history and tradition. Take the time to explore the church and learn about its significance to the local community. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a local wedding or other celebration taking place.

Visit Neighbouring Villages

Tellaro is also in close proximity to a few other neighbouring villages. From Tellaro, you can easily walk (or take a bus) to the neighbouring villages of Lerici and San Terenzo, where there are small beaches for you to spend a day out in the sun. If you will be visiting Lerici, do drop by the Castello di Lerici, a beautiful castle that dates back to the 12th century and originally built as a defensive structure to protect the town from pirates and other maritime threats.

Enjoying Local Festivals and Events

Octopus
Source: trolvag

If you get a chance to visit Tellaro in August, don't miss the annual Octopus Festival. The event is held on the second Sunday of August, and celebrates the legend that a giant octopus once saved the village from an invasion of pirates. The event is a good chance to mingle with locals and immerse in the local culture, sample Octopus dishes made using traditional recipes, and enjoy live music and entertainment.

Savoring Tellaro's Culinary Delights

Tellaro is a small fishing village located in the picturesque region of Liguria, Italy. As with fishing villages, you will find a lot of seafood in its local dishes — and you can expect that the seafood to be very fresh. Try the local seafood and pasta dishes for an authentic taste of Liguria.

Best Restaurants and Cafes

If you're looking for a place to indulge in the local cuisine, Tellaro has plenty of options to choose from. One of the most popular places in the village is Bar La Marina, a cozy bar which is located right on the waterfront. Enjoy a glass of cocktail and some local food while enjoying amazing views of the sea.

Source: The Fork
Source: The Fork

Or you could also head to La Barca Tellaro. This cozy cafe serving local delights is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and it's easy to see why. The food here is excellent, and so is the view from the terrace — definitely a feast for both your eyes and tastebuds!

Practical Information

Getting to Tellaro

Getting to Tellaro is easy, no matter what mode of transportation you choose. If you're flying in, the nearest airport is Pisa International Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away. From there, you can take a train or bus to La Spezia, and then take a bus to Tellaro.

If you're driving, be prepared for a winding and hilly road that leads to the village. However, the stunning views along the way are well worth it.

Once you arrive in Tellaro, the best way to explore the village is on foot. The narrow streets and alleys are not accessible by car, so you'll need to park outside the village and walk in. But don't worry – the walk is short and the views are breathtaking.

If you need to travel outside of the village, there are buses and taxis available. The closest train station is located in La Spezia, which is approximately 15 kilometers away. From there, you can easily access other destinations along the Ligurian coast, such as the famous Cinque Terre.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tellaro is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, you can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and soaking up the sun on the beaches.

However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and higher prices — though the crowds are probably nothing compared to the nearby Cinque Terre. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful visit, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April and October. The weather is still pleasant, but the crowds have thinned out, making it easier to explore the village at your own pace.