BETWEEN LIGURIA AND PIEDMONT ALONG THE SALT ROADS - THE BORBERA VALLEY

Day 1

With bikes in tow (possibility to rent e-bike on arrival), depart from Genova Manin with the Historical Railway Genova Casella: 25 km long, it travels along a route characterised by steep slopes and tight bends between Apennine ridges, cliffs and trenches as if it were a high mountain railway, yet keeping itself in the first 6 km from sea view. Arrive in Casella and start route accompanied by an expert and qualified cycle tour guide: the route will cross two parks, Antola Park and the Upper Borbera Valley Park.

****Alternative to the Historical Railway: possibility to start from Camogli and travel 20 km of paved low-traffic road passing through the villages of Uscio, Scoffera, Montoggio as far as Casella with possible overnight accommodation in Camogli to enjoy and combine a beach stay (prices on request) *****

Depart from Casella and head towards Crocefieschi and Vobbia, stopping off for lunch/aperitif in a famous delicatessen for a tasty sandwich. The itinerary continues to the Castle of Pietra, a masterpiece of Ligurian castle architecture in Antola Park. Leave the bikes at the entrance and take an uphill route through the wood to reach the entrance to the Castle to visit the interiors and for a breathtaking view from this real eagle's nest.
Following the visit, back on the e-bike and head towards Costa Salata, a name which evokes its trading past, and Mongiardino. Climb to the Shrine of Nostra Signora Assunta in Montemanno which enjoys a scenic view over the Sisola Valley. Start cycling again to reach Big Bench #266 of Mongiardino for a souvenir photo before stopping off at a farm which produces local honey, without the use of antibiotics and following organic methods. Honey tasting.
Dinner in agriturismo and overnight accommodation.

Day 2

After breakfast, set off for Roccaforte Ligure. Stop in the hamlet of Borassi to visit a virtuous farm which grows spelt and ancient grains using only organic farming methods. Since 2021, it has been producing a craft beer using barley it
grows directly.
A short distance away by bicycle is the village of Roccaforte Ligure, dominated by a rocky spur on which stand the remains of the Castle of Malaspina. From its medieval origins until the dominion of the Marchesi Spinola it protected the village below. The remains of the castle are open to visitors following a short walk in the woods for a spectacular view over the surrounding valleys.
Back on the saddle again and continue on, passing through Rocchetta, Cantalupo Ligure as far as the scenic ‘Strette di Pertuso’ a fluvial gorge of extraordinary natural beauty of the River Borbera, a canyon between the steep walls and the emerald waters. Stop at the Equipped Area of Boscopiano to taste the "borberino" aperitif with the local gastronomic excellence or prepare a barbecue in the equipped area of the wood (possibility to rent the tools required and purchase the products to cook). Free time on the banks of the clear waters of the Borbera reachable by a scenic staircase of 160 steps.
Back on the bike again and cycle through Borghetto, Vignole to Arquata Scrivia to take the train towards Liguria or another destination.