Heading inland through western Liguria, the coast disappears behind the winding roads, giving way to forests, pastures, mountain ridges and tiny villages. The Ligurian Alps Regional Natural Park is home to the highest mountains in the region, ancient mule tracks, forests and landscapes stretching all the way to the French border.

SENTIERO DEGLI ALPINI
A panoramic high-altitude trail, carved into the rock between Monte Pietravecchia and Monte Torraggio, this is one of Liguria’s most spectacular hikes. The classic circular route from Colle Melosa covers around 18 km, with over 800 metres of elevation gain and a walking time of approximately six hours. At the starting point – or waiting to welcome you on your return – is the inviting Rifugio Franco Allavena.

MONTE SACCARELLO
At 2,200 metres, this is the highest mountain in Liguria. From Realdo or Verdeggia, the route climbs towards Passo di Collardente and the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri long-distance trail, through meadows and pastures where sightings of wild horses are not uncommon. On the ridge, you can stop for refreshments at Rifugio La Terza, with views stretching all the way to the sea. Finally, round off the day in Triora, the “village of witches”, perhaps with dinner at Osteria La Loggia della Strega.

MONTE FRONTÈ
Slightly lower, Monte Frontè rises to 2,152 metres. The circular route from San Bernardo di Mendatica passes Malga Garlenda and joins the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri. From here, too, you can reach the picturesque Rifugio La Terza. On the way back, add a stop at the Santuario della Madonna dei Colombi.

BOSCO DELLE NAVETTE
For a walk surrounded by greenery, Bosco delle Navette offers a vast expanse of larch and pine woodland in the Val Tanarello. It is an even more magical destination in autumn, while in winter it becomes the perfect setting for snowshoeing. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Locanda d’Upega, in the village of the same name on the edge of the forest.

ROCCHETTA NERVINA AND ITS NATURAL POOLS
Here you can choose between the Anello dei Due Ponti circular route, which follows the Rio Barbaira along mule tracks and across historic bridges, passing a series of natural pools, or go canyoning through the stream’s gorges with Canyoning Liguria. Afterwards, take some time to explore the villages: Pigna, with its historic buildings and excellent restaurants such as Federico Lanteri all’Osteria Martini and Agriturismo La Stalla Bianca; or Buggio, which retains its rural, pastoral character and is home to Agriturismo Ca’ de Na.