Case Cadato - Monte Pelizza - Monte Castagnola - Colle Forcola - AV5T junction

This route develops entirely at altitude along the mountain ridge overlooking the coast of the eastern Ligurian Riviera, acting as a fundamental connection between local trails and the Alta Via delle Cinque Terre (AV5T). The itinerary starts in the locality of Case Cadato, a junction above the coastal settlement of Framura, and immediately begins climbing the wooded ridge. Walking through an evocative alternation of pine woods and sparse Mediterranean scrub, hikers reach the panoramic summit of Monte Pelizza and then the summit of Monte Castagnola. Along this ridge section, the view opens freely over the Mediterranean Sea and the inland valleys of La Spezia. Continuing along the track, the trail gently descends towards the geographical saddle of Colle Forcola. The final part of the hike climbs gently along the mountain slope until it reaches the AV5T junction, a strategic point from which hikers can continue inland, descend into the National Park area or return towards the coastline.

• Wear high hiking boots with a lugged sole, such as Vibram or equivalent: the ridge terrain alternates unstable gravel, exposed rocks and woodland ground that may become slippery.
• There are no drinking-water sources along the entire mountain ridge, from Case Cadato to the AV5T junction. Carry a complete water supply before climbing to higher elevations.
• In strong storm winds or dense fog, orientation on the summits of Monte Pelizza and Monte Castagnola may become difficult. Stay strictly on the main track and use a GPS application with offline maps.