Visit Apricale
Apricale is a picturesque small village to the north-east of Dolceacqua in western Liguria and surrounded by forested hills, included on the list of the 'most beautiful villages in Italy'.
Exploring Apricale
Just one of several attractive hill villages in this region, Apricale is compact and easy to explore. Most of the sights of interest are on or very close to the square in the centre of the village, although of course you will also want to follow the main street along the ridge to enjoy more views and to appreciate the medieval character of Apricale.
These highlights include a medieval castle and two small churches.
The castle next to the square towards the top of the village dates from the 12th century and you can still see two towers and parts of the walls. The two churches also both contain interesting historical artefacts such as a medieval mosaic in the Church of the Purification of the Virgin Mary* and the 16th century altarpiece in the Oratory of Saint Bartholomew.
* The Church of the Purification of the Virgin Mary is actually quite ancient in origins but was rebuilt in the 18th century in the baroque style and then the facade was rebuilt in the romanesque style in the 1930's.
As well as the main square it is also the tiny alleyways, arched passageways and ancient houses and staircases that give Apricale its unique charm so allow time to explore the most obscure corners of the village!
The Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli (Saint Mary of the Angels) below the main part of Apricale village is one of the most interesting here because of the 15th century frescoes that cover a large area of the walls and ceiling.
Although it is small, you will also find all basic facilities in the village centre including cafes, bars and shops as well as several small art galleries and studios. The focus in the shops and restaurants is on using and selling high quality local produce.
You can also visit a small civic museum to learn more about the history of Apricale and western Liguria.
Attractions nearby
The surrounding countryside is very popular with hikers and cyclists, and there are various river beaches within easy reach. Another hill village very close to Apricale that you will want to visit as part of the same trip is Dolceacqua.
Slightly further afield the Italian Riviera is easy to get to, with the coast around Ventimiglia the most accessible from here.
You can find more local travel ideas in the Imperia guide and the Liguria guide.
Map of Apricale and places to visit
Apricale places to visit
Dolceacqua
The charming historic centre of Dolceacqua includes an ancient bridge across the river and a ruined castle
Dolceacqua guide
Bordighera
The town of Bordighera has a pleasant promenade and old town, and 19th century villas and gardens of interest
Bordighera guide
Ventimiglia
Almost on the French border, Ventimiglia has a small beach and several historic highlights
Ventimiglia guide
Sanremo
Once the best known resort in Liguria, San Remo retains a great deal of its belle epoque charm
Sanremo guide
Villa Hanbury
Villa Hanbury in western Liguria is famous for its beautiful and extensive gardens
Villa Hanbury guide
Bussana Vecchia
The ghost village of Bussana Vecchia, destroyed by an earthquake in 1887, is now an evocative local arts centre
Bussana Vecchia guide...or see all our recommended places to visit in Liguria
