Liguria is a narrow stretch of land occupying the upper western coast of Italy between the Ligurian Sea and the meeting-point of the Alps and Apennines. Its beaches and coastal rocks are world-famous; although the hinterland is less well-known, the limited space conceded by a mountain area that almost stretches right down to the sea is a place of great interest that holds some true natural and cultural treasures. The territory covers an area of 5500 square kilometres and takes in the 315 kilometres of the Ligurian Gulf.