Via San Rocco, Italy

A charming Ligurian home surrounded by nature, just a 10 minute walk from the centre and beach of Camogli.

Casa del Tombolo is an example of a traditional Ligurian hillside home, a rural architectural typology, that has become increasingly rare. Arranged over two levels, the property comprises two residential units, each with its own private entrance.

During the 1990s, the house underwent a meticulous restoration carried out with the utmost respect for its original character and structure. The works incorporated bioclimatic principles, environmentally sustainable materials and an insulated laminated timber roof finished in natural slate.
With 2 hectares of land, including olive groves (most recent harvest in 2025), beautiful Mediterranean planting across gentle terraced slopes and the higher levels benefitting from exceptionally panoramic sea views.

Set within the desirable nature reserve of Portofino, there are beautiful walking trails that are easily accessible from the property. One of these paths leads to the beach and town centre that can be reached in less than 10 minutes.   Yet, despite its secluded natural setting, the property benefits from direct vehicular access.

There are four annexes within the grounds and eight parking spaces, with the potential to add further if required. An underground rainwater collection cistern and irrigation system serve the upper terraces, and the property is pre-wired for a BTicino smart home system. The generous terraces in the garden provide ample space for the construction of a swimming pool, subject to the necessary consents.

Upper Floor
The upper residence accommodates up to four guests, with a double bedroom and a Japanese-style tatami sleeping area. The living room is bright and spacious, featuring a decorative laminated timber ceiling, original exposed beams and a partial mezzanine level. Three large arched windows frame views towards Ruta and are fitted with reinforced double glazing. Two retain their original slate window seats, traditionally associated with the creation of handmade bobbin lace, while also maximising natural light throughout the day.
Architectural trompe-l'œil wall decorations enhance the character of the interiors, while a bespoke built-in wardrobe incorporates original antique Oriental doors. A ventilated fireplace provides supplementary heating to adjoining rooms. The mosaic flooring was crafted by the same artisans who supplied Genoa's Palazzo Ducale, based on an original design. Additional features include a ceiling fan and provision for air conditioning.

The mezzanine level comprises a Japanese-inspired tatami room, a compact Japanese-style bathroom and a storage area, all finished with parquet flooring. This level is connected to the main living area by an original early twentieth-century cast-iron spiral staircase.

The kitchen features a bespoke solid Carrara marble worktop and integrated sink, designed exclusively for the property. It is fitted with premium appliances, including a refrigerator inspired by the classic iceboxes of the 1950s, reflecting the room's distinctive design aesthetic.

The sleeping accommodation includes a dressing area with a Carrara marble washbasin and a bathroom finished in multicoloured slate, complete with a whirlpool bath, Vola fittings and Luceplan lighting. The corner bedroom enjoys dual aspects overlooking both Ruta and the garden, and features traditional slate window seats, fitted wardrobes, built-in storage and a ceiling fan chandelier.

Externally, the main entrance opens onto a stone and terracotta-paved patio. To the rear, adjacent to the kitchen, there is an outdoor marble sink and a built-in wood-fired oven.

Lower Floor
The lower level comprises two independent yet interconnected spaces, which may be separated by double doors that also function as a fitted dividing wardrobe. The accommodation can comfortably host up to four guests, with a double bedroom and a double sofa bed.

The first area consists of a bedroom with seventeenth-century Lombard terracotta flooring, a dressing area with fitted storage and a bathroom fully clad in Bisazza mosaic. Additional features include a Carrara marble washbasin, Vola fittings and sanitaryware designed by Philippe Starck. The second area is an impressive reception room with vaulted cross ceilings and original Lombard terracotta flooring and potential to install a fully equipped kitchen and a second bathroom, if required.