What Is the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri?
Stretching approximately 440 kilometres from Ventimiglia in the west to Ceparana near La Spezia in the east, the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri (High Route of the Ligurian Mountains) is one of Italy's most remarkable long-distance trails. It traces the spine of the Ligurian Apennines and Maritime Alps, passing through dense chestnut forests, open ridgelines, and medieval villages that have changed little in centuries.
For hikers based in or visiting the Province of La Spezia, the eastern sections of the trail — particularly those passing through the hills above Maissana and the Val di Vara — offer some of the most rewarding and least-crowded walking in the entire region.
Trail Overview: Eastern Section Near La Spezia
The final stages of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri wind through the Ligurian Apennines before descending toward the Ligurian coast. This section is characterised by:
- Terrain: Forested ridges, open meadows, and rocky outcrops with sweeping views toward the Ligurian Sea
- Typical elevation: Between 600 and 1,400 metres above sea level
- Trail marking: Red-and-white waymarks of the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), supplemented by the trail's own signage
- Surface: Mix of mule tracks, forest paths, and occasional asphalt stretches through villages
Difficulty and Fitness Requirements
Individual day sections of the trail range from easy to moderate-challenging, depending on elevation gain and trail condition. Most sections near Maissana are rated E (Escursionistico) by the CAI — suitable for anyone with basic fitness and proper footwear. Some higher ridge walks are rated EE (Escursionistico Esperto) and require experience with mountain terrain.
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- At least 2 litres of water per person (springs are present but not always reliable)
- Layered clothing — weather can change quickly on exposed ridges
- A detailed topographic map or downloaded offline GPS track
- Sunscreen and a hat for open ridgeline sections
- A small first-aid kit and a fully charged mobile phone
Best Seasons for Hiking
The Alta Via is best walked between late April and early June, when wildflowers are at their peak and temperatures are comfortable, and again in September and October, when the chestnut forests turn gold and the air is crisp. Summer (July–August) can be very hot on exposed sections, while winter brings snow above 900 metres and renders some stretches impassable.
Access Points and Logistics
Several road access points allow day hikers to join and leave the trail near Maissana without committing to a multi-day journey. Key access villages include:
- Varese Ligure — a well-serviced base with accommodation and restaurants
- Maissana — a quiet starting point for circular day routes
- Sesta Godano — access to both trail and the Vara valley below
Public transport in this area is limited. A car or bicycle is the most practical way to reach trailheads. Alternatively, several local taxi services and guided hiking companies operate out of La Spezia and Varese Ligure.
Accommodation Along the Way
Refuges (rifugi) and agriturismos dot the eastern Alta Via, offering simple but warm hospitality. Many require advance booking, especially on summer weekends. The region's agriturismo culture means you'll often find home-cooked meals included in your stay — expect hearty Ligurian dishes like testaroli al pesto and locally cured meats.
Leave No Trace
The Ligurian Apennines are a fragile environment. Stick to marked trails, pack out all rubbish, avoid picking wildflowers, and keep noise low to avoid disturbing wildlife. Several areas along the route pass through protected zones under the jurisdiction of the Parco Naturale Regionale di Montemarcello-Magra-Vara.