Cassana – Mulino delle Ferriere – Monte Bardellone

Trail 549 is one of the most characteristic historic routes in the Borghetto di Vara hinterland, retracing the old communication paths that connected the Val di Vara with the coastal heights of Levanto. The route starts in the hillside hamlet of Cassana, particularly near the Church of San Michele. After leaving the paved road, the trail enters the secluded, cool valley carved by the Canale di Cassana. It climbs steadily along the valley floor beneath dense chestnut vegetation. Along the way, it passes close to the historic ruins of Mulino delle Ferriere, an old mill associated with rural activities and local iron working. Continuing uphill along the stream gorge, the unpaved path crosses a forest road that gains elevation more rapidly. The excursion ends at the 594-metre-high Foce del Bardellone, also known as Passo del Bardellone, a spectacular historic crossroads with majestic views both towards the inland Apennines and over the Gulf of Levanto.

• Hiking boots with a non-slip lugged sole are essential: the valley-floor section along the Canale di Cassana is often damp and covered with slippery leaves.
• The path includes stream-side passages and small fords: it is strongly discouraged to undertake the hike during or immediately after heavy rainfall, as the rocks become extremely slippery and the stream flow may increase.
• There are no certified drinking-water sources along the valley or on the Bardellone ridge: refill in Cassana before departure.