Between Dolcedo and the Val Prino: the wealth of Ligurian produce and artisanal skills
Planning a holiday in the hinterland of western Liguria means choosing to explore a region where the land and the work of human hands have been telling their story for centuries. It is a journey that goes beyond the beaches, delving into a landscape of terraced hills, historic villages and a culture built on authentic produce and traditions passed down through the generations.The landscape as history: olive cultivation in Val Prino
When discussing local produce in this part of Liguria, one cannot help but start with the olive tree. Val Prino, which stretches from the hills of Costa Carnara down to the sea, is a striking example of how nature and human tenacity have shaped the landscape. Here, the hills are shaped by endless bands of dry-stone walls, the low walls that support the olive groves. These are not mere boundaries, but veritable monuments to rural ingenuity, built without mortar, relying solely on the skill of fitting the stones together to withstand the test of time and the elements. These terraces are mainly home to the Taggiasca cultivar, a variety of olive tree that has become a symbol of this corner of Liguria. Probably introduced by the Benedictine monks of Taggia around the 7th century, this tree has found its ideal environment here. Its small, dark fruits yield an extra virgin olive oil with a fruity flavour, featuring hints of almond and a slight tingle on the finish – characteristics that make it recognisable and highly prized far beyond the region’s borders. The harvest, often still carried out by hand or using methods that do not damage the tree, is a labour-intensive and traditional process that is repeated every year, ensuring a quality that is the result of centuries of experience.From the vegetable garden to the table: the seasonality of flavours
Agriculture in Liguria, particularly in the hinterland, has always been linked to the concept of self-sufficiency and local consumption. Small farms and family vegetable gardens, often situated on the terraced slopes, produce a variety of vegetables and aromatic herbs that reflect the seasonality and richness of the soil. Tomatoes, courgettes, aubergines, basil, rosemary, thyme: these are simple yet essential ingredients for the cuisine of Ponente. In summer, the land offers the very best of its bounty. The ripe, fragrant seasonal produce forms the basis for fresh, wholesome dishes. There is no need for elaborate recipes: the quality of the raw ingredients is enough in itself to create dishes that tell the story of the region, from pesto made with fresh basil to stuffed vegetable pies, right through to salads enriched with Taggiasca olives. This culture of ‘zero-kilometre’ produce – long before the concept became fashionable – is an integral part of Ligurian identity, a way of life and consumption that prioritises the local origin and traceability of what is served at the table.The hands that create: craftsmanship between tradition and necessity
Alongside the produce of the land, Western Liguria also preserves a heritage of artisanal skills. In a region where subsistence has for centuries required ingenuity and manual dexterity, craftsmanship is not merely an artistic expression, but often also a response to practical needs. These are not large-scale productions, but objects that reflect the patience and skill of those who work with simple materials and techniques handed down through the generations. Examples can be found in stonework, linked to the construction of dry stone walls and houses in the villages. Or wooden artefacts, often made from local trees and transformed into tools or essential items of furniture. Ceramics, whilst not as widespread a tradition as in other regions, have had their moments of expression, often featuring decorations that evoke the area’s marine or floral motifs. Weaving and the processing of natural fibres also played a role in the past in the creation of baskets and containers used for harvesting crops or for transport. These crafts, although less visible today than in the past, represent a link to the history and identity of the area. They are not merely objects, but testimonies to a way of life and production that values manual labour and an understanding of materials.An authentic experience in Val Prino
Exploring Val Prino and its surroundings in summer offers the chance to appreciate this richness. The long days allow you to stroll through the olive groves, discover the small villages clinging to the hillsides and savour the fruits of a bountiful land. It is a way of connecting with the history and traditions of a region that has managed to retain its authenticity, offering visitors a genuine experience far removed from the usual tourist trails. It’s about seeking out quality in the little things: in the flavour of an olive oil, the fragrance of an aromatic herb, or the uniqueness of a handmade object – all elements that tell the story of this hilly part of Liguria.Davide’s Tip: In the height of summer, the days are long and the sun can beat down hard on the hills of the Val Prino. If you’re planning to explore the paths amongst the olive groves or the narrow streets of the inland villages, always set off early in the morning or in the late afternoon, after 5.00 pm. Take a large water bottle and a hat with you to protect yourself, even when the sky looks overcast.