Ligurian Apennines: Mountains, Valleys and Hiking Trails

• The mountain range continues east of Colle di Cadibona (Bocchetta di Altare).
• At 1,804 metres, Monte Maggiorasca is the highest peak in the Ligurian Apennines.
• Monte Penna reaches 1,735 metres and lies within the Parco dell’Aveto.
• According to the park, the circular route over Monte Penna takes around two and a half hours and is rated challenging.

The term Ligurian Apennines refers to the eastern mountainous part of Liguria, not to every place in the hinterland. Colle di Cadibona is considered the conventional geographical boundary between the Ligurian Alps to the west and the Apennines to the east. The transitions in the landscape are more varied than a single line on a map suggests: coastal slopes give way to side valleys, followed by higher ridges and passes. As a result, a destination that looks close to the sea on the map may still require a longer drive along a winding mountain road.

The main ridge divides drainage basins: water on the northern side flows mainly toward the Po, while southern streams flow toward the Ligurian Sea. Rivers such as the Scrivia and Trebbia belong to the northern river systems. This orientation is useful when planning routes, too. A pass does not automatically connect two places by a direct route, and the straight-line distance tells you little about the gradient, road layout or actual walking time.

The Parco dell’Aveto lies in the eastern part of the mountain range. Monte Maggiorasca is the highest peak in the Ligurian Apennines; Monte Penna, at 1,735 metres, is a prominent neighbouring peak. At Penna, the scenery shifts between the rocky northern slope and wooded stretches on the southern side. Beech and coniferous forests, open mountain passes and rocky sections make the hike varied, but call for suitable footwear and care on uneven ground.

If you are mainly looking for views, don’t choose a hike based solely on the summit’s elevation. The approach distance, elevation gain, exposure and return route matter just as much. In low cloud or strong winds, a shorter forest trail may be more pleasant than an exposed ridge; in warm weather, shade and water sources are important to take into account when planning your day.

The Parco dell’Aveto describes a circular route starting from the Casermette del Penna. The route passes through Passo del Chiodo, La Nave, the summit area and Passo dell’Incisa before returning to the starting point. The park gives a walking time of around two and a half hours and rates the hike as challenging. There is an exposed section near the summit; if you are uncomfortable with such stretches, check the alternative route via the other side of the mountain and consult the latest trail information. The geological hollow of La Nave and the beech forest on the southern slope offer two distinct landscapes on the same loop. The Casermette are already up in the mountains, so calculate the walking time and drive separately. Also check that you can return to your starting point and where you can leave your vehicle for the duration of the hike. Before setting out, check the Parco dell’Aveto route information, as weather and trail conditions can change.

For a mountain hike, accommodation near the valley you plan to visit is usually more practical than choosing a base solely for its proximity to the beach. Compare the starting point, access route, parking options and return journey to your accommodation. Take an up-to-date map and check that the circular route really suits your experience and the amount of time you have. For a challenging route, sturdy footwear, weather protection and an early start are advisable; don’t rely solely on the walking time given on the website if you will be taking breaks or photo stops, or if your group is walking at a slower pace.

You can combine the hinterland with coastal towns, but driving from one valley to another can take longer than expected. If you have several days, you could set aside one day for a mountain area and another for the Riviera. An overview of hiking, cycling and other activities will help you compare your options; the page on Liguria and its landscapes explains how the coast, slopes and mountains fit together.