Sottomarina – Beach, Murazzi and Tegnùe

Sottomarina combines coastal landscapes, history and unique experiences on the Adriatic Sea. If, for your stay, you are considering a place with a beach, historic buildings, an old fishing village and protected natural areas, Sottomarina offers several clearly distinct sides. The town is connected to the municipality of Chioggia via the Isola dell’Unione bridge.

Beach, Murazzi and the coastline

The beach of Sottomarina stretches in the north from the Diga di San Felice to the Diga sul Brenta in the south. The Murazzi are a striking example of coastal fortification. The walls were built from large blocks of Istrian stone and, as the last surviving work, recall the structures of the Serenissima before its fall. The Murazzi of Sottomarina are 1,270 metres long. Today, several sections have been demolished, including a larger area between the Todaro school and the Institute of the Serve di Maria nuns. Here, therefore, you encounter not only a historic structure but also a coastal feature whose state of preservation is part of its distinctive character.

Tegnùe: protected nature offshore

Off the coast of Sottomarina, in the Adriatic Sea, lies the protected area of the Tegnùe of Chioggia. The Tegnùe are a natural reef in the Adriatic formed by calcareous red algae. The area is protected by a Biological Protection Zone in which fishing is prohibited. Divers can explore the Tegnùe on guided routes. This creates a clear distinction when choosing a destination: the Tegnùe represent not only a unique underwater landscape but also a protected area with a defined form of access.

Cycle path, sailing and an experience for families

The promenade of Sottomarina has a quiet cycle path connecting the Diga di Sottomarina with the Diga del Brenta. Anyone who wants to see the town on two wheels will find a specifically designated route along the promenade. The wind also shapes the opportunities on the water: the moderate, steady wind in Sottomarina favours sailing.

In the centre of Sottomarina lies Village, a free-admission amusement park. It offers more than 20 attractions for young and old. The park complements the nature and coastal experiences with an activity explicitly aimed at different age groups.

Fishing village, Venetian atmosphere and local cuisine

The old part of Sottomarina is an ancient fishing village with a rich history and rich traditions. There, you can rediscover the Venetian and popular atmosphere of nearby Chioggia. At the Diga di Sottomarina, there are also stilt-like structures where fishing is carried out with the Bilancia. This large square lift or drag net is one of the vivid features of the local fishing tradition.

Some of the fishermen’s huts along the Diga di Sottomarina are called “balanse” and have been adapted for fish tourism. There, visitors can enjoy rustic dishes from the Chioggia tradition while taking in the view. In this way, beyond its beach and water, Sottomarina also reveals itself through its connection between fishing, regional cuisine and coastal views.

More destinations for your travel planning

If you would like to consider destinations beyond Sottomarina, you can also include Cavanella D'adige, Ca' Zennare and Isolaverde Di Chioggia in your selection.

For the overview of the wider destination: Chioggia.