Its route has yet to be officially inaugurated and this will happen on May 15, in the presence of the Liguria Region and the Mayors of the Diano Marina Gulf, but often these remain only formal acts and in the case of the Diano Marina Cycle Path this is even more so, because as soon as the work for its construction was finished, that 7 kilometre long stretch of Road was literally mobbed.
We're talking about a path built along the former railway line, as has happened in many other corners of our country. Its construction was a crucial step toward connecting the Riviera dei Fiori Cycle Route , and the fact that these seven kilometers are entirely separated from car traffic gives it a special appeal. This was evident from the very first days, when as soon as the barriers were removed, a large number of people, some on bikes, some in simple running shoes, and even strollers, flocked to the flat path to fully enjoy it.
A gift to the citizens of which Diano Marina Mayor Cristiano Za Garibaldi is truly proud : "The work on this extraordinary project is the result of a long administrative and technical process, which saw strong synergy between the municipalities of the Gulf of Diano Marina and the Liguria Region. The construction site itself gained momentum in the post-Covid period, culminating with the completion of the works in recent weeks ."
How was the route chosen?
A strategic evaluation was carried out: we decided to reclaim and enhance the former railway track in every possible area. This choice allowed us to create a roughly 7-kilometer route that runs along the water's edge, connecting Diano Marina, San Bartolomeo al Mare, and Cervo all the way to Andora . This ensures a flat route with inestimable scenic value, while carefully planning the necessary intersections with the urban fabric.
Did you expect the success it has had since it opened?
We knew we had a project with enormous potential on our hands, a project long-awaited not only by our fellow citizens but by all lovers of the Riviera dei Fiori. However, the enthusiasm we're experiencing exceeds even our wildest expectations. Seeing thousands of people, including families, athletes, and tourists, flock to this new stretch to enjoy the beauty of our sea in a sustainable way fills us with pride . It confirms that the direction we've taken—that of slow, quality tourism—is the right one for the future of our region.
Does the cycle path also intersect with vehicular traffic in its design or is it entirely on its own lane?
Safety and usability were our top priorities during the design phase. Leveraging the former railway line, the bike path runs almost entirely on its own, protected path, separated from vehicular traffic . This allows cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy the route in complete tranquility. Naturally, as it passes through residential areas, there are connections with ordinary roads. Our technicians are currently working to coordinate these intersections and resolve minor issues, in consultation with regional offices.
The cycle path is considered a fundamental piece in the development of the Riviera dei Fiori cycle route: are there other parts of it that are still missing?
Absolutely, the Golfo Dianese section is a crucial piece, but our focus is on completing the entire Tyrrhenian Cycle Route . As for our region, the next major goal is the opening of the Incompiuta, the seaside road connecting Diano Marina to Imperia. Safety improvements are underway, and, as anticipated by the Region, we expect to be able to inaugurate it by the end of June. This will connect our section to the existing 24 kilometers between San Lorenzo al Mare and Ospedaletti, creating a continuous corridor of over 40 kilometers in Western Liguria , a true driving force for the economy and cycling tourism of the entire region.
What are the most characteristic tourist attractions near or near the Diano Marina cycle path?
The route is a succession of wonders. Starting from Diano Marina, cyclists can cycle through the town center and then continue towards San Bartolomeo al Mare, where the route passes the site of the Roman mansio, whose artifacts are housed in our Civic Museum. Continuing, you reach Cervo, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, offering a breathtaking view of its historic center perched above the sea . The entire 7-kilometer route is a balcony overlooking the Ligurian Sea, allowing you to discover hidden coves, shopping and entertainment centers, beaches, medieval villages, and typical Mediterranean scrub, offering an immersive experience in the authentic beauty of the Riviera dei Fiori.
