The History and Secrets of Italy's Cala degli Inglesi

The History and Significance of Cala degli Inglesi

Tucked away along the rugged Ligurian coastline in northwest Italy lies a picturesque cove known as Cala degli Inglesi, or "Englishman's Cove" in English. Despite its idyllic setting within the protected marine area of Portofino Regional Park, the cove carries a somber history, as its name pays tribute to a 19th century maritime tragedy.

The Sinking of the English Steamer

The story begins on a stormy night in January 1822, when a British steamer carrying textiles from Genoa to Marseille sank just off the shores of what is now known as Cala degli Inglesi. Over 100 passengers - many of them English - perished in the shipwreck. Local fishermen sailing in nearby waters arrived to rescue survivors and recover bodies from the wreckage.

Naming the Cove to Honor the Victims

In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the fishermen named the tiny bay "Cala degli Inglesi" in remembrance of the departed English souls. The name endures to this day not just as an homage, but also as a sobering reminder of the sea's ability to both provide sustenance and deliver devastation along this notoriously treacherous coast.

Cala degli Inglesi Today

Over the past two centuries, Cala degli Inglesi has transformed from the site of a shipwreck into one of the most picturesque havens along the Ligurian Riviera. Only accessible by boat or via a steep hiking path, the peaceful cove can only be reached by those willing to make the effort. Yet the rewards for visitors are bountiful once they arrive.

An Idyllic Natural Swimming Cove

Cala degli Inglesi opens up into a quintessential Ligurian swimming cove, with transparent blue-green waters and a backdrop of sheer cliffs coated in vibrant endemic Mediterranean foliage. The protected waters remain shallow far from shore, creating pleasant swimming conditions even for less confident swimmers. For these reasons, Cala degli Inglesi stands out as one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Portofino Marine Protected Area.

Underwater Wines Add to the Intrigue

In recent years, Cala degli Inglesi has drawn attention for an unique attraction beneath its pristine waters - an underwater cellar of fine sparkling Italian wines. In 2014, a family of local wine producers began sinking thousands of bottles of their artisanal Ligurian sparkling wines about 60 feet below the surface.

The cool underwater conditions provide an ideal environment for aging sparkling wines, while the novelty and publicity surrounding Italy’s only subaquatic cellar has created intrigue around the wines and the enchanting cove itself. Today, scuba diving enthusiasts flock to the underwater cellar for a chance to view the bottles lined neatly across the seafloor.

Visiting Cala degli Inglesi

Though relatively difficult to access, a visit to discover Cala degli Inglesi’s breathtaking setting and fascinating history remains a worthy endeavor for adventurous travelers along Italy's Ligurian coast. Visitors can choose to reach the cove either by boat tour from the village of Portofino or via a steep 1.2 km hiking trail leading down from the gorgeous Abbazia di San Fruttuoso.

Boat Tours from Portofino

During high season from June through early September, boats run regular shuttles between Portofino Harbor and Cala degli Inglesi. A return trip with stops lasts around 2.5 hours and includes about 1 hour to relax and swim once arriving at Cala degli Inglesi. Most boats also offer the option to stop at San Fruttuoso Abbey.

Hiking from San Fruttuoso

For those adventurous enough to hike, the trail from San Fruttuoso Abbey down to Cala degli Inglesi takes about 30 minutes one-way. The steep path and lack of shade can make hiking strenuous, so visitors should wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water. The hike also includes climbing over a stretch of rocks along the water, which may prove difficult for some. But those willing to exert the effort required along the trail will be rewarded with quiet solitude once arriving at this hidden coastal gem.

Whether visitors choose to access it by boat or hike, a few hours spent discovering the tranquil beauty of Cala degli Inglesi always proves to be time blissfully well spent.

FAQs

Where is Cala degli Inglesi located?

Cala degli Inglesi is tucked within a cove along the coast of northwest Italy's Liguria region, about a 15 minute boat ride or 30 minute hike east from the village of Portofino.

Why is there an underwater wine cellar in Cala degli Inglesi?

In 2014, an Italian winemaking family began aging bottles of their sparkling Ligurian wines on the seafloor of Cala degli Inglesi about 60 feet below the surface. The cool and consistent underwater temperatures are ideal for the second fermentation required for quality sparkling wines.

How can you access Cala degli Inglesi?

Visitors can reach Cala degli Inglesi by booking a boat tour from Portofino Harbor or by hiking down a steep trail that leads 1.2 km from the abbey of San Fruttuoso. Travel by boat offers more leisure but the hike rewards active travelers with gorgeous seaside views.

What is the history behind the name?

Cala degli Inglesi, meaning "Englishman's Cove," got its name after local fishermen recovered over 100 drowned English passengers from an English steamer shipwreck just off the cove's shore in January 1822. The cove was named in solemn memory of the lives lost from the wreck.