The Annual Meeting is not only about scientific presentations but also about the people who make the research possible. To balance the intensity of the conference sessions, we have organized a series of social activities and local visits.
Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where participants can unwind, explore the enchanting surroundings of Camogli, and connect with colleagues. We invite you to take advantage of these moments to discover the local culture and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Gulf.
Boat Trip to San Fruttuoso & Portofino
Tuesday, February 16, 2027
San Fruttuoso Abbey
A stunning landmark set in an enchanting natural bay, the Abbey of San Fruttuoso is a hidden gem embraced by the crystalline waters of the Mediterranean and the greenery of Portofino Park. Due to its extraordinary beauty and historical significance, the site is protected by FAI (Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano), ensuring the preservation of this enchanted location for all visitors.
Credits: HotelCenobioDeiDogi
Portofino
World-renowned as one of the most quintessential examples of a Ligurian coastal village, Portofino is nestled in the heart of a lush promontory of Mediterranean scrub. This breathtaking landscape cuts through the sea like a blade, separating the Gulf of Paradise from the Gulf of Tigullio.
Credits: HotelCenobioDeiDogi
Castello Brown
Castello Brown is a medieval fortress originally established by the Genoese for the defense of the Portofino Gulf. Throughout its history, it underwent several expansions and renovations, notably by Napoleon Bonaparte. It is named after the British Consul Montague Yeats Brown, who owned the property in the late 19th century and planted the castle's signature symbolic pines. Formerly a military fortress and later a private home, the castle was acquired by the Municipality of Portofino in 1961 and is now used as a cultural and event space.
Credits: castellobrown.com
Schedule:
- 14:15 – Meeting with the guides at the hotel, followed by a short walk to the boarding point.
- 14:30 – Departure from Camogli to San Fruttuoso via private boat.
- 15:00 – Arrival at San Fruttuoso and guided tour of the historic Abbey (visits will be conducted in small, staggered groups to ensure an intimate experience).
- 16:00 – Departure from San Fruttuoso towards Portofino. Depending on the group's needs, this will include a short stop or a panoramic tour of the bay.
- 16:30 – Arrival at Portofino, guided tour of Castello Brown
- 18:00 – Departure from Portofino back to Camogli.
- 18:30 – Arrival in Camogli and return walk to the hotel.
Note on Accessibility
Please note that the visit to Castello Brown involves a short uphill walk. For those who prefer not to make the climb, it is possible to wait for the group in the Portofino piazzetta, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the square until the group returns.
Weather Contingency Plan
In the event of adverse weather conditions that prevent boat navigation, the excursion to San Fruttuoso and Portofino will be replaced by a guided tour of the historic center of Genoa.
Alternative Schedule:
- 14:20 – Meeting with the guides at the hotel and departure for Genoa via private bus.
- 15:10 – Arrival in Genoa and guided tour of the historic center (conducted in English).
- 17:10 – Coffee break at a historic venue in the Porto Antico (Old Harbor).
- 17:40 – Short walk to the departure point.
- 17:50 – Departure from Genoa back to Camogli via bus.
- 18:30 – Arrival at the hotel and end of the guided service.
Guided Tour of Camogli
Wednesday, February 17, 2027
To help you discover the charms of our host town, we have organized a guided walking tour of the village. The tour will lead you through the most iconic spots of the borgo, providing a deeper look into its unique architecture and maritime history.
Schedule:
- Time: 15:30 – 17:30
- Meeting Point: Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi (Departure and return)
Highlights of the tour:
- The Historic Center: a walk along the Passeggiata Garibaldi and a look at the "trompe l'oeil" facades.
- Fortifications: a visit to the Castello di Dragonara.
- Local Traditions: a stop at the legendary Pasticceria Revello
For detailed information on these landmarks, please refer to the "Exploring Camogli" section.