Villa della Pergola Gardens Travel Guide

Perched on the hills overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Alassio sits one of Italy’s most enchanting treasures: Villa della Pergola Gardens. This historic park, built in the late 19th century, offers you a peaceful escape into a world of rare exotic plants and breathtaking sea views. The Gardens of Villa della Pergola combine typical Mediterranean vegetation with thousands of flowers and rare plant species, creating one of the most beautiful parks in all of Italy.

As you wander through the terraced botanical gardens, you’ll enjoy approximately 90 minutes of pure natural beauty. The lush greenery slopes gently toward the sea, providing spectacular vistas of the entire Gulf and the Gallinara Island beyond. These views alone make Villa della Pergola a must-visit destination on the Italian Riviera.

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The gardens surround a luxury hotel that has been carefully restored to preserve its historic charm while offering modern comforts. After exploring the photogenic landscapes, you can extend your experience by staying at the Relais, where you’ll be completely immersed in this botanical paradise. The recent restoration has only enhanced the natural beauty of this special place on Liguria’s western coast.

History of Villa della Pergola Gardens

Villa della Pergola’s captivating story begins in 1875, when two Scottish gentlemen, George Henderson Gibb and General William Montagu Scott McMurdo, established it. They were drawn to Alassio’s mild climate and panoramic Mediterranean views.

The garden itself took shape in the late 1870s, fulfilling the vision of General McMurdo and his wife, Lady Susan Sarah Napier. Their goal was to create a private Italian villa surrounded by lush gardens.

Built on over 5 acres of land, the garden showcases a remarkable collection of rare exotic flowers. The property is particularly famous for its extensive variety of agapanthuses, creating a truly unique botanical experience.

By the end of the 19th century, the gardens had become a celebrated example of English landscape design with Italian influences. The careful arrangement of plants and pathways takes full advantage of the stunning coastal setting.

In 2006, Villa della Pergola Gardens faced a critical moment. The property was saved from building speculation, preserving this historic treasure for future generations.

Following this rescue, landscape architect Paolo Pejrone led a meticulous restoration project. His work carefully balanced historical accuracy with botanical innovation, bringing new life to the gardens while honoring their heritage.

Today, Villa della Pergola is a member of the Association of Italian Historic Houses. When you visit, you’ll experience both the rich cultural history and natural beauty that make these gardens a must-see destination on the Italian Riviera.

What to See in Villa della Pergola Gardens

Villa della Pergola Gardens in Alassio is a breathtaking botanical paradise on the Italian Riviera. With 22,000 square meters of stunning landscapes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rare plants and exotic flora at every turn.

The gardens are famous for their wisteria collections, which bloom in spectacular cascades during spring. You’ll be amazed by the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances that fill the air.

Mediterranean vegetation thrives throughout the park, with cypress trees creating elegant silhouettes against the blue sky. The gardens offer unparalleled views of the Gulf and Gallinara Island—perfect spots for photos.

One of the most impressive features is the agapanthus collection. These striking blue and white flowers create a magical atmosphere in summer months.

During your visit, you’ll notice how the gardens blend Italian design principles with exotic influences. Rare plant species from around the world have found a home in this unique microclimate.

The layout invites exploration, with winding paths revealing new surprises at every turn. Look for hidden benches where you can sit and absorb the peaceful surroundings.

Don’t miss the architectural elements scattered throughout the garden, including pergolas draped with flowering vines and ornamental water features.

Tours are guided, ensuring you learn about the garden’s rich history and botanical significance. This personal touch makes Villa della Pergola one of the most beautiful parks in Italy.

How to Get to Villa della Pergola Gardens

Villa della Pergola Gardens sit on the hills of Alassio in Western Liguria, offering easy access from several major cities. Here’s how to reach this beautiful destination:

By Car:

From Genoa: Take the Albenga exit, then follow SS 1 bis (Aurelia bis) towards Alassio. You’ll arrive in about 13 minutes.
From Ventimiglia: Take the Andora exit, then follow SS 1 (Aurelia) towards Alassio.
From Nice or Menton: Drive east along the coastal route for a scenic journey into Italy.
From Milan: Take the A7 highway south to Genoa, then follow the A10 west toward Ventimiglia.

By Train:
Alassio has a train station with good connections to Genoa, Sanremo, and other coastal towns. From the station, you can reach the gardens on foot by taking the underpass in Viale Gibb, 30.

Parking:
The gardens recommend parking in the large station car park and walking from there. This option is convenient if you’re visiting during busy periods.

Villa della Pergola is just 74 km from Ventimiglia and 67 km from Monaco, making it a perfect day trip if you’re staying in these areas.

The exact address is Via Privata Montagu 9, 17021 Alassio, Italy. Look for signs directing you to the gardens once you arrive in Alassio.

Villa della Pergola Gardens Visitor Information

The Gardens of Villa della Pergola are open daily from March 22 until the end of January 2026. This gives you plenty of time to plan your visit to this breathtaking botanical paradise in Alassio.

Important: You can only visit the gardens through guided tours. This ensures you get the most informative experience while protecting the rare plants and delicate ecosystem.

Entry tickets cost €15 per person. While tours are primarily conducted in Italian, English-speaking visitors will receive helpful leaflets with translations, and guides often accommodate with English explanations.

The gardens are located at Via Privata Montagu 9 in Alassio, offering spectacular views over the Gulf. This hillside position creates the perfect microclimate for the exotic and Mediterranean plants that thrive here.

What to expect during your visit:

Knowledgeable staff guiding you through lush Mediterranean vegetation
Thousands of exotic flowers and rare plant species
Breathtaking sea views throughout your tour
A peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and appreciation of nature

For the complete experience, consider staying at the luxury Villa della Pergola Hotel surrounding the gardens. Here you can enjoy their:

Elegant pool area for cooling off
Nove Restaurant featuring local cuisine
Wellness facilities for ultimate relaxation

Reservations for garden tours are recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure availability on your preferred date and time.

Where to Stay Near Villa della Pergola Gardens

When visiting the stunning Villa della Pergola Gardens in Alassio, you have several excellent accommodation options nearby. The most prestigious choice is staying at the Villa della Pergola itself, which operates as a Relais & Châteaux luxury hotel.

This 19th-century villa offers an intimate setting with panoramic sea views from its hillside position. The property is surrounded by the same exquisite botanical gardens you’ve come to visit, creating a truly immersive experience.

Each room features high ceilings and many include balconies overlooking the Mediterranean. The hotel maintains the elegant atmosphere of its late 19th-century origins while providing modern comforts.

For those seeking a beachfront option, the Grand Hotel Spiaggia is just a five-minute walk from the beach. This historic hotel has been open since 1930 and offers rooms across three floors.

The Grand Hotel Alassio Beach & Spa Resort is another upscale choice, providing spa facilities and complimentary breakfast. For a pet-friendly option, consider Hotel Dei Fiori, which also features spa amenities.

Budget-conscious travelers can find holiday apartments and vacation rentals throughout Alassio. These provide more space and kitchen facilities for longer stays or family trips to the Riviera di Ponente.

Things to Do Near Villa della Pergola Gardens

While visiting the stunning Villa della Pergola Gardens in Alassio, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities in the surrounding area. The charming town offers a perfect mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and relaxation.

Begin your exploration at the famous Budello di Alassio, the town’s historic pedestrian shopping street. This narrow, vibrant alley is lined with boutiques, cafes, and local specialty shops.

Don’t miss the iconic Muretto di Alassio (Alassio’s Little Wall), covered with colorful ceramic tiles featuring signatures of famous visitors. It’s a unique cultural landmark that makes for great photos.

For beach lovers, Lungomare Angelo Ciccione offers a beautiful promenade along Alassio’s golden sandy beaches. You can relax on the shore or try water sports like sailing and paddleboarding.

Culinary experiences near Villa della Pergola are exceptional. The region is known for its seafood and Ligurian specialties. Many local restaurants serve fresh catch-of-the-day dishes with stunning sea views.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the nearby hills for panoramic views of the Gulf. Biking trails along the coast provide another way to experience the beautiful Mediterranean landscape.

Medieval village excursions are popular day trips from Alassio. These ancient settlements perched on hillsides offer glimpses into Italy’s rich history and traditional architecture.

Shopping opportunities abound in Alassio, from local artisan crafts to high-end boutiques that showcase Italian fashion and design.