Lerici attractions

Villa Rezzola is an old mansion immersed in a large and lush terraced garden. From the terraces of the house you can enjoy an exceptional view of the Gulf of Poets, ranging from Lerici to Portovenere. You'll understand why the villa has been winning the hearts of writers and artists since the 19th century, including Shelley, Byron, and Lawrence. The villa's English garden is especially exceptional. A long wisteria pergola crosses it, separating the woods and cultivated areas – a rose garden, a vegetable garden and an orchard – from a monumental lawn, furrowed by an avenue for walking, and bordered by hedges with flower pots, as well as pools and fountains. Already documented in the 18th century, it stands on medieval remains of military origin and was gradually expanded and modernised in the next two centuries. In 1900 it was purchased by Helen Lavinia and William Percy Cochrane, who were responsible for most of the transformations.