Walk No. 1

Passo dei Giovi - Passo della Bocchetta (Pietralavezzara)

This walk is perfect for a sunny afternoon, as total walking time is no more than two hours. But the views in all directions are truly rewarding nonetheless. To get to the Passo dei Giovi by public transportation, one needs first to take a train to Pontedecimo (from Porta Principe or Brignole in the direction of Busalla or Arquata Scrivia). Right at the bottom of the street leading down from the train station building is the bus stop for the various bus lines operated by the Autolinee Ligure. The busses for Busalla climb up to the Passo dei Giovi.

Look for the red-and-white markings for the AV (Alta Via) in the center of the village named after the pass (altitude: 472 m) and head west. The trail makes it way uphill, soon leaving behind the last houses. The actual stroll up to the Passo della Bochetta (772 m) takes a bit more than an hour but is well worth the climb through the forested hillsides. A picnic area with marvellous views towards the south invites sweaty hikers who have reached the destination to sit down and enjoy the sights. To get to the nearest bus stop in order to get back to the Vico della Rosa, you will need to walk down the road crossing the Passo della Bochetta, heading south and downhill for about three kilometers to Pietralavezzara. The traffic is sparse, so there is no need to worry about dodging many cars - or hitching a lift. If the local trattoria in Pietralavezzara is open, why not take a refreshing break before stepping into the ALI bus, which then winds down into the valley in a series of harrowing curves.