Colla di Gritta – Sella Monte Crocettola (AV5T)

Trail 591C is an important and rapid vertical access route within the Cinque Terre National Park. The route starts about 100 metres from the Colla di Gritta road pass, a junction above Monterosso al Mare, branching off from main trail 591. The path immediately tackles a very steep initial ascent, with the first metres developing over almost vertical gradients and natural steps inside the woodland. The trail then levels out and proceeds more steadily beneath dense mixed forest dominated by maritime pines, holm oaks, chestnut trees and strawberry-tree shrubs. During the climb, the vegetation occasionally opens to broad panoramic views over the Levanto valley and its small hillside villages. The itinerary ends upon reaching the ridge at Sella Monte Crocettola, also known simply as Crocettola, where it joins the main AV5T axis, the Alta Via delle Cinque Terre.

• Wear high hiking boots with excellent grip and a lugged sole: the forest surface, especially in the first almost vertical metres, consists of soil and loose stones that can be slippery.
• It is strongly discouraged to use the trail during or immediately after heavy rainfall: the steep gradient turns the initial section into muddy and unstable terrain.
• There are no drinking-water sources along the kilometre-long ascent; refill before departure.
• Pay attention to the red-and-white CAI markers at the start of the branch from trail 591 to avoid missing the correct entrance.