Villa Marigola, Lerici

Gardens and Historic Building in Lerici

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Waterborough

Villa Marigola is one of the best places to visit in Lerici, a refined estate poised between Lerici and San Terenzo on a lush promontory above the sea. Surrounded by one of the few Italian-style gardens facing the coastline, the villa has long captivated writers and poets-from Shelley and Keats to D.H. Lawrence and Attilio Bertolucci. Its tranquil setting, sweeping views of the Gulf of Poets, and historic charm make it a highlight of any walking tour of Lerici.

Originally created as a noble summer residence, the villa evolved over the centuries under different owners who each left their mark on its architecture and landscape. Today, Villa Marigola offers an enchanting blend of history, greenery, and maritime atmosphere.

History and Significance of Villa Marigola
Things to See and Do in Villa Marigola
How to Get to Villa Marigola
Practical Tips on Visiting Villa Marigola
Where to Stay close to Villa Marigola
Is Villa Marigola Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Villa Marigola
Nearby Attractions to Villa Marigola

History and Significance of Villa Marigola

Built in the 18th century as the summer retreat of the Marquise Ollandini, Villa Marigola was designed to celebrate the beauty of its surroundings. Overlooking the deep blue waters of Lerici's bay, the estate quickly became a symbol of privilege and leisure during the Enlightenment era.

In the 19th century the villa was purchased by Sir Reginald Pearse, an English banker who enhanced both the interiors and exteriors, reflecting British tastes of the time. Later, shipowner Gio Batta Bibolini acquired the property and commissioned architect Franco Oliva to carry out a comprehensive renovation between 1926 and 1949.

Oliva's interventions gave Villa Marigola much of its current appearance. He redesigned the gardens, linking the evergreen forest behind the villa with the Italian-style parterre overlooking Lerici Castle. His design also preserved the “Bocklin,” a small artificial grotto at the garden entrance, adding an element of romanticism to the grounds. This careful restoration affirmed Villa Marigola's place as one of the region's finest historic landscapes.

Things to See and Do in Villa Marigola

Villa Marigola’s greatest treasures lie in its gardens and panoramic terraces. The formal Italian parterre is a masterpiece of symmetry, featuring boxwood borders, stachys plantings, cypress lines, and grandiflora magnolia trees framing sensational sea views.

Visitors can stroll through the evergreen forest, relax near the grotto, or admire the sweeping vistas toward Lerici Castle and the Gulf of Poets. Inside the villa, elegant salons (when open for events) showcase refined architectural elements and period decor.

The grounds are a favourite setting for photography, weddings, and cultural events, offering a peaceful escape from the coastal bustle below.

How to Get to Villa Marigola

Villa Marigola sits on the promontory between Lerici and San Terenzo, reachable by local paths and roads. The nearest airports are Pisa International Airport and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, with onward connections to La Spezia and Lerici by train and bus. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Lerici on Booking.com.

The closest major train station is La Spezia Centrale. From there, frequent buses travel to both Lerici and San Terenzo. The villa can be reached on foot from either town by following scenic coastal or hillside paths. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Visitors arriving by car can park in designated lots near Lerici or San Terenzo and walk up to the villa through marked trails. The ascent offers lovely views but may include inclines and uneven terrain. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Villa Marigola

Suggested tips: Combine your visit with a stroll between Lerici and San Terenzo for coastal scenery.
Best time to visit: Spring and early summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
Entrance fee: Varies; access often tied to events or guided visits.
Opening hours: Not always open to the public; check event schedules.
Official website: Consult Lerici’s cultural listings for availability.
How long to spend: 45-90 minutes depending on garden access.
Accessibility: Some uneven paths and slopes; access may be limited for wheelchair users.
Facilities: Minimal on-site; cafés and shops available in Lerici and San Terenzo below.
Photography tip: Capture the parterre with Lerici Castle rising in the distance.
Guided tours: Sometimes offered during cultural events or garden openings.
Nearby food options: Excellent restaurants in San Terenzo and Lerici along the seafront.

Where to Stay close to Villa Marigola

For beautiful sea views and proximity to the villa, Hotel Shelley e delle Palme offers a classic waterfront stay. A serene hillside choice is Doria Park Hotel, which overlooks the bay. Another welcoming option nearby is Hotel del Golfo.

Is Villa Marigola Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Villa Marigola is one of the must-see places in Lerici, offering a rare combination of Italianate gardens, literary heritage, and breathtaking coastal views. Its atmospheric grounds and storied past make it a memorable destination for lovers of history, architecture, and nature.