Every August, Borgomaro transforms into a vibrant festival village. It’s an Italian summer straight out of a picture book, complete with music, dancing, tradition, and warmth. Best of all, you’re right in the middle of it all at Relais del Maro, a very special hotel where you can stay next door to the locals.

Take a vacation at an Albergo Diffuso

Some places feel like lovingly guarded secrets. Borgomaro, located in Liguria, is one such place. With its narrow streets, Italian flair, and surrounding mountains, it is sure to captivate you—and right in the middle of it all stands the Relais del Maro. Rather than a classic hotel with a reception area, elevator, and large building, it is an Albergo Diffuso, or “scattered hotel,” where the rooms are spread across several historic houses in the village. Host Elena has gently renovated the old family homes, breathing new life into them—and in turn, the village itself.

A piece of real Italy

At a time when many Italian villages are affected by rural depopulation and vacant properties, Relais del Maro is setting an example by celebrating the village rather than allowing it to be forgotten. As a guest, you can stay in the village itself (perhaps in Aunt Maria’s former hair salon?), have breakfast in the garden of the former butcher shop, and stroll through the alleys like a local. This fosters a unique sense of connection to the people, the region, and the Ligurian way of life.

Why you should come in August

Summer in Borgomaro is warm and charming, especially in August. Throughout the month, the entire village becomes a giant stage, with music, art, and entertainment filling the squares, courtyards, and streets. It’s the perfect time to experience the village’s diversity. Rather than crowded beaches and lines in cities, you can experience authentic Italy here, complete with warmth, hospitality, and homemade cakes in the afternoon.

What to expect at the Festival del Maro

Music, theater, and the region’s beauty all come together at the Festival del Maro. The Impero Valley is brought to life by this series of events, where many villages have a population of just 300 (such as Borgomaro). The festival invites guests and locals alike to celebrate culture and community. However, the locals outnumber the guests, which makes the whole experience particularly authentic.

Since its inception in 2018, the festival has become an annual tradition, attracting artists from Liguria and visitors from farther away. The charming settings — from Piazza Felice Cascione in Borgomaro to hidden church squares and quiet courtyards — make every performance an atmospheric experience. The focus is always on togetherness and rediscovering a valley largely spared from mass tourism.

Here’s a sneak peek at this year’s 2025 program:

• Borgomaro, July: Opening night will feature an opera concert with world-famous Italian and foreign arias.
• Ville San Pietro, July: Music evening, “Let’s Talk and Sing About Love.” Singing, piano, and cello performed by two musicians.
• July, Conio: An evening of singing, ventriloquism, and Muppets (puppets)—full of humor!
• August, Ville San Sebastiano: A choir concert in a historic setting. Celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Madonna della Neve pilgrimage church. The church was restored in 2004. The highlight is a marble statue of the Madonna from 1625.
• August, Candeasco: Diego Campagna’s guitar artistry with a mezzo-soprano
• August, Torria: Homage to Neapolitan singing with a vocal and instrumental ensemble.
• August, Aurigo: Swing Evening with the BRG Orchestra from Finalborgo

Travel slowly and unwind

Before heading to the evening show, enjoy a peaceful day at Relais del Maro, ideally on the cozy terrace with a leisurely organic breakfast. Fresh regional specialties and homemade delicacies are served, along with everything your heart desires for breakfast. Afterwards, you can simply let yourself drift. Relax by the pool, read a book, or enjoy good conversation – or maybe do nothing at all and soak up the sun.

Activities near Borgomaro

If you prefer a more active vacation, you can rent an e-bike and explore the surrounding area. Explore the surrounding hills, olive groves, and other villages in the valley. The landscape around Borgomaro is ideal for travelers who like to experience slow travel at their own pace.

How about a yoga session in the garden? Relais del Maro offers yoga classes with a local provider surrounded by nature for a mindful start to the day. Learn more about the offer here.

A special highlight for adventurers — canyoning in the Ligurian hinterland! Just a few kilometers from the hotel, you can hike through gorges in small groups, discover stunning waterfalls, and cool off in the refreshing water. There’s no better way to experience the wild side of Liguria! All information can be found here.

And, of course, a visit to the sea is a must. The coast is just 15 kilometers away. So are some of Liguria’s most beautiful beaches, including hidden gems and secluded coves. The Relais del Maro has compiled a list of its favorite beaches.

It’s time for a special summer trip!

If you’re looking for more than just a vacation this year and want to experience Italy in an authentic and unique way, then Relais del Maro is the perfect place for you. With a charming village hotel, lively festivals, culinary delights, and the sea close by, summer couldn’t get any better. So gather your favorite people, grab your suitcases, and discover the real Liguria before everyone else does.

P.S. If August is too soon for you, Martina from the Relais del Maro management team recommends the olive harvest season or the culinary village festivals in May and June.

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