Oneglia’s Hidden Gems: From Villa Grock to Ligurian Festivals
Within the Ligurian city of Imperia, two souls pulsate, represented by the two main residential centers that compose it: on one side Porto Maurizio, perched on a rocky promontory jutting out towards the sea; on the other Oneglia, extending into the alluvial plain at the mouth of the Impero torrent. Oneglia, an autonomous municipality for a long time, united with Porto Maurizio in 1923 to form the current Imperia, is a small municipality with an unusual urban layout. Here, the historic center of medieval origin, with streets arranged in a grid, is flanked by the nineteenth-century area, where streets branch out radially around Piazza Dante, the hub and heart of the town.
The Historical Heart of Oneglia
The appearance of Piazza Dante, framed by a continuous row of porticoes, is in neoclassical style but with a distinctly Piedmontese taste, testifying to the period when the Savoy reigned over the city. Overlooking the Ligurian Gulf, Oneglia has long ceased practicing traditional fishing, and its economy is now mainly based on trade. However, attentive visitors will notice some small jewels of historical and cultural value, which are well worth visiting while strolling through the center.
What to See in Oneglia
One of the most beautiful buildings in Oneglia is the Collegiate Church of San Giovanni Battista. This is the city cathedral, which rises in the heart of the square of the same name and has always been a popular meeting point. Made even more elegant and slender by the tall bell tower that stands next to it, the cathedral was recently renovated and has been returned to its beautiful original colors. Today, the facade of the church is white, the other external walls are yellow ochre, and the bell tower alternates ochre and brick red with the dark green of the enameled tiles on the dome. Finally, a real gem is the churchyard, with its typical Ligurian-style decoration, composed of black and white marine pebbles arranged to form geometric spirals.
Another building worth visiting is the school building in Piazza Ulisse Calvi, which in the 18th century was a Scolopi college. Additionally, in the residential area climbing the hill, you can visit Villa Bianca, also known as Villa Grock, named after the famous Swiss clown who commissioned it in the 1920s. In impeccable Art Nouveau style, the villa features a beautiful pavilion for parties, a spectacular garden, and a swimming pool crossed by a charming covered bridge.
The Climate of Oneglia
The climate will contribute to making your visit to Oneglia more enjoyable, no matter the time of year. The area enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate, among the least rainy and cold in Italy, characterized by hot but never muggy summers, thanks to the breeze blowing from the sea. The hottest month is July, with average temperatures ranging from 21°C minimum to 27°C maximum, while the coldest month is January, with averages between 5°C and 11°C. Rainfall is concentrated mainly in spring and autumn, with about a week of rain per month, while summer months are almost completely dry.
Local Events and Festivals
Such a mild climate also contributes to the prosperity of olive trees in the Oneglia area. The production of olive oil is essential here, celebrated every year during the Olioliva trade fair, held at the end of November. The festival showcases the area’s exceptional olive oil and other local products.
Another highlight of Oneglia’s events is the port, which hosts the Vele d’Epoca (Vintage Sails) event, an international gathering of vintage yachts, as well as the Motoryacht d’Epoca event, a gathering of vintage motor yachts. These two events alternate each year and take place in September, drawing boating enthusiasts from all over the world.
How to Get to Oneglia
To reach Oneglia by plane, land at Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, located about 112 km from the destination, eastwards along the Ligurian coast. For those traveling by car, whether from Genoa or France, take the Aurelia or exit at Imperia Est-Oneglia along the Autostrada dei Fiori A10 Genova-Ventimiglia. Oneglia also hosts one of Imperia’s two railway stations.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Rossini al Teatro (Via Garessio 2): A charming and modern hotel located in a historic theater, offering elegance and comfort.
- Villa della Pergola (Via Privata Montagu, 9): An enchanting boutique hotel surrounded by lush gardens with breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast.
- Palace Hotel Imperia (Via San Giovanni): Centrally located, perfect for exploring Oneglia and Porto Maurizio.
- Hotel Corallo Imperia (Corso Garibaldi): Overlooking the sea, this hotel combines tradition and modern comforts.
- B&B Casa Nayla (Via Felice Musso): A family-run option offering warm hospitality and homemade breakfasts.
Where to Eat
- Osteria del Tempo Perso (Via XX Settembre): Known for its exceptional Ligurian cuisine with dishes like trofie al pesto and fresh seafood.
- Ristorante Lorenzina Mare (Via Scarincio): Perfect for lovers of seafood, offering a terrace with stunning sea views.
- Aquila Nera (Via Vittorio Emanuele II): A classic trattoria serving authentic Ligurian dishes, including ravioli di borragine.
- Il Ristorante dell’Orto (Strada Colla): Focused on farm-to-table ingredients with a rustic yet elegant atmosphere.
- Pizzeria La Lanterna (Piazza San Giovanni): Offers a mix of traditional pizza and local specialties, ideal for a casual dinner.
