Garlenda (Welcome)

From the Middle Ages to the nineteenth century, Garlenda experienced a flourishing period of development, favoured by the beauty of the natural scenery and the fertile agricultural lands, cultivated above all with vineyards.
Il Garland Castle, also called of the sundial, was originally a guardhouse later transformed into residential accommodation for the local lords, the Del Carretto family. Today, after complete renovation, it is once again open to the public, a venue for conferences, shows, exhibitions and banquets.

In the 60s, with the construction of the golf course, new prospects opened up in Garlenda, especially in the field of tourism. In 1984, the charming town hosted the birth and headquarters of the largest model club in the world: the Fiat 500 Club Italia, with more than 21.000 members and since 2010 “UNICEF Peace Testimonial". The traditional international meeting celebrates its 35th edition this year, welcoming crews from all over Italy and the world. To complete the picture, we would like to mention the accommodation and sports facilities: in addition to the Golf Club, high-level hotels and restaurants, pizzerias, farmhouses, bowling alley, tennis courts, gym and cycle path. At the Villafranca Park, the Pro Loco enlivens a summer season full of events that enhance Ligurian food and wine.

There are numerous paths that run through the valley and that the Municipality of Garlenda has brought back to their ancient splendor. The Municipality adheres to the Association Ancient Salt Roads and is home to the route of the Ligurian Trail, with the aim of offering residents and guests a pleasant and constantly renewed environment to discover and live in.