Vai al contenuto
Via Julia Augusta
A Breathtaking Panorama
Discover the Via Julia Augusta, an easy and spectacular walk among olive trees, Roman remains and glimpses of the sea. From Albenga to Alassio on foot and at a leisurely pace.
An easy walk from the city, no equipment. Just you, the sea and the beauty that comes your way.
Between Albenga and Alassio there is a short, accessible and surprising path. It is taken almost by chance - a bend, a climb, a few steps. And then, everything opens up.
Olive trees, Mediterranean scents, glimpses of the horizon. With each step, an increasingly enchanting panorama.
Underfoot, a two-thousand-year-old Roman road.
Like a light seagull, he follows its outline, revealing its contours a little at a time, and our eyes, like his, follow that subtle pattern that the sea traces around the island.
It is the Via Julia Augusta, the Liguria in its most authentic form.
A walk that fills the eyes. And, without you realising it, your heart as well.
What is the Via Julia Augusta?
It was the Emperor Augustus, some two thousand years ago, who wanted the ancient Via Aurelia to continue: thus the Via Julia Augusta was born, linking Italy to Gaul via the western Ligurian coast.
It was not just a military road: it was the thread that connected people, goods and storiesalong the Ligurian coast.
The stretch connecting Albenga in Alassio is among the best preserved.
Today we propose a walk between dry stone walls, Mediterranean scents and archaeological remainssuspended between sky and sea.
The route today
The walk along the Via Julia Augusta starts in Carrai Regiononly 5 minutes' walk from Brezza di Sale and the historical centre of Albenga.
The entrance, well signposted, is easy to reach and immediately introduces you to an authentic landscape: olive trees, beaten earth paths and the blue of the sea suddenly appearing.
Even if you only walk along a stretch, you will be impressed by the breathtaking views and the tranquillity one breathes.
The ancient Roman track gently accompanies towards Alassioup to the scenic Church of the Holy Crossoverlooking one of the most picturesque vantage points in western Liguria
Along the way you will find well-positioned benchesideal for stopping, breathing... and why not, enjoying a freshly baked focaccia.
What one encounters
Walking on the Via Julia Augustameet the remains of a Roman necropolismausoleums and tombs lined the road, as was the tradition at the time.
Along the ancient route were two important burial areasone right here, on the Julia Augusta, and another near St Michaelnext to the Pontelungo, the ancient Roman bridge still visible today - although the river has long since diverted its course.
But that... is another story.
And we will tell you about it in a future article or guide. 😉
The path continues and, changing perspective slightly, offers a new view on the islandThe silhouettes of the few buildings become more apparent, emerging among the vegetation that previously concealed them.
One flock of herring gulls revolves around her, as if to protect her.
Their voices, the wind, the silence: everything accompanies the pace.
And finally, like a vision, we arrive at the Church of the Holy Cross.
A small stone church, simple and cosy, overlooking the sea and set among the pines, overlooking one of the most spectacular promontories in Liguria.
Just below the church, a small park of pine trees welcomes the traveller. It is one of the most photographed spots on the route, and it is not difficult to understand why. Impossible not to stop, let go for a moment, sit down and let your gaze fly.
To the island and beyond...
A simple path, an authentic experience
The walk along the Via Julia Augusta is a small journey for anyone who likes to walk slowly and be surprised.
No need to be experienced or trained: the route is easy and flatexcept for a short initial uphill section (on asphalt), followed by a cobblestones and beaten earth.
It is suitable for all ages, as long as good basic physical fitness.
Not suitable for buggies or pramsbut it is perfect for those seeking an outdoor outing amid history, nature and scenery.
Practical tips for a safe route
- Wear comfortable shoes with good soles (no sandals or flip-flops) and wear a hat
- Carrying waterespecially in warm seasons
- Apply sunscreenparticularly in the morning (exposed section)
- In the afternoon, the trail offers shaded areas alternating with sun
- Best to avoid central hours in summer
- Do not abandon the pathit is well marked, but it is still in the natural environment
- Respecting nature: do not pick flowers, do not leave rubbish
When a simple holiday becomes a wonderful experience.
Exclusively for you from Salt Breeze
Written and read by Daniela Brombal
Authentic Guides
Flexible, humane and weather-sensitive guides who respect the rhythm and feeling of those who leave.
Listen to the Podcast
Listen to the Authentic Guides, the Cheerful Guides and all the articles read for you.
A prize for you who read this article to the end...
🎁
We reserve 10% discount on your next direct booking
with Salt Breeze.
🔖 promoaugusta10
📌 Conditions:
- The code is only valid for bookings made directly with us
- Cannot be used on external platforms
- Cannot be combined with other current offers or promotions
