Borghetto – Faggiona – Monte Verruga - Monte Bardellone

Trail 550 is one of the major historic vertical connections in the province of La Spezia. The route starts in Borghetto di Vara, in the heart of the valley, and climbs steadily through dense hillside woodland until it reaches Faggiona, a mountain hamlet located at approximately 440 metres above sea level and surrounded by thick chestnut vegetation. From Faggiona, the route climbs more decisively towards the mountain watershed. The trail passes beneath the ridge of Monte Verruga, a relief overlooking the Val di Vara, and continues along a panoramic forest ridge. The itinerary ends at Foce del Passo del Bardellone, at 594 metres above sea level, an extraordinary historic hiking crossroads offering broad views both towards the inland Apennines and towards the gulf and coastline of Levanto.

• Wear high hiking boots with a lugged sole: the steep initial climb and damp woodland terrain require maximum stability.
• The trail crosses dense chestnut woods and hillside scrub; in late spring the vegetation can become thick, so long trousers are recommended.
• There are no certified drinking-water sources along the mountain ridge or the isolated forest sections: carry water from Borghetto or Faggiona.
• In strong winds or thick fog on the ridge between Monte Verruga and Bardellone, navigation may become more difficult; an offline map or GPS device is recommended.