The Alta Via is divided into eight zones fractioned into stages for a total of 43 stages (2-4 hours each). A dense network of side paths crosses the Via almost everywhere, connections being provided by the most diverse means of transport, such as the historic Trenino di Casella.
Selected accommodation facilities and rifugi dot the track and offer shelter and rest to trekkers along this system of trails connecting mountains, passes and enchanting borghi (from the hamlet of Dolceacqua in the west to the Val di Vara in the east) in a never-ending celebration of open air sports and activities. The Val d’Aveto presents plenty of opportunities for cross-country ski races; San Bernardo di Mendatica is the ideal paraglide venue; streams attract rafters and canoeists (from the Arroscia near Albenga to the Vara near La Spezia); Mountain bikers and horse riders find plenty of fun almost everywhere.
We limit ourselves to a selection of hints, leaving to you the joy of field investigation. Stage 21 from the Passo del Faiallo to the Passo del Turchino, imposing Forte Geremia towering over. Stages 22-23 from the Passo del Turchino to the Passo della Bocchetta, the sea at a stone’s through. Demanding stage 33, in the heart of the splendid Parco Naturale Regionale dell’Aveto. Stage 43, from the Valico di Solini to Ceparana, where the Vara and Magra rivers meet in a pastoral scenery of perfect beauty between Liguria and Tuscany.
So…are you ready with your boots and map?