Situated on the stunning Ligurian coast a bit north of Cinque Terre, Levanto is an attractive area of Italy with unique characteristics and a mild climate. Because of its family-friendly beaches and engaging festivals and events, Levanto is a travel destination almost anyone can enjoy. It is also easily accessible by train, which adds to its appeal for many families. The town is located at the end of a beautiful thickly wooded valley featuring pine and olive trees.
Levanto was Malaspina’s feudal stronghold before passing to the Republic of Genoa in 1229. In Medieval times, the town became a center of commerce, and benefited greatly from maritime communications. The major development of the town began after the Middle Ages with the construction of several commercial buildings, the most interesting of which were built in the 1600s and 1700s. The Corso Roma and Corso Italia, two thoroughfares which were completed in the early 20th century, marked the modernization of Levanto.
Levanto reminds many travelers of an old-fashioned town, and features a city park and village square. Traditional shops can be found in the city, as well as establishments that cater to tourists. Local residents are friendly and helpful, and many of the town’s hotels are modest in size and owned and operated by local families. The town has its own gelato shop where reasonably priced gelato can be purchased seven days a week.
Levanto boasts one of the best surfing beaches in Italy due to its impressive waves. However, many visitors find swimming at the beach just as enjoyable as surfing. Levanto Beach is long and the water is clean, making it a great place to enjoy the day and view an outstanding sunset at night. Each November, world famous surfing events take place at Levanto Beach.
There is a vast array of landmarks and attractions in the town of Levanto and the surrounding area, one of which is an almost perfectly preserved Medieval-era castle that was originally built to defend the village from marauders and foreign armies. The Church of Saint Andrew is a spectacular example of 13th century architecture, with its Gothic facade and magnificent stained glass windows. The Church of Saint Mary of the Coast is another landmark that has survived since the Middle ages. The Gardens of Villa Agnelli were designed in the early 1900s, and this attraction offers visitors and their families a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Here, Levanto’s rich foliage is beautifully showcased on impeccably maintained grounds.
Levanto’s weather is part of the reason it has become a favorite vacation spot for so many individuals. The town features a very mild climate throughout most of the year, where frost is practically non-existent. However, Levanto can experience significant rainfall, especially in the spring, but this creates the lush, healthy foliage that is characteristic of the area. The coldest month in Levanto is January when the average temperature is approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
