Via dei Monti (or Via de Pontremolo): Stage 1 - Levanto - Brugnato

The first stage of the Via dei Monti follows the medieval itinerary once used by merchants and pilgrims to transport goods from Levanto's canal port towards the Val di Vara and Lunigiana. The route officially starts in the historic centre of Levanto, specifically near the old municipal Loggia, also known as Loggia di Piazza, indicated in the Italian source as dating from the eighth century. From here, the trail heads inland across the valley, passing the Romanesque Parish Church of San Siro in Montale and continuing along a historic and demanding stone mule track climbing towards the hillside hamlet of Vignana. Beyond the village, the ascent becomes steeper and more demanding, passing the locality of Cà Vagine and entering dense chestnut woodland. The trail reaches the watershed ridge before beginning a gradual descent on the opposite slope. It crosses the old rural settlement and hamlets of Cassana, in the municipality of Borghetto di Vara, and ends by entering through the ancient gates of the elliptical village of Brugnato, at 120 metres above sea level, historic seat of the cathedral and the Bishop's Palace.

• Wear structured hiking boots with a lugged sole: the historic paved paths and stone mule tracks climbing from Montale to Vignana may become very slippery in humidity or after recent rainfall.
• The climb between Vignana and the ridge at Cà Vagine is steep and steady. Manage your effort carefully and take short restorative breaks.
• Carry an ample water supply, at least 2 litres per person. Although refilling is possible in the villages crossed, such as Montale, Vignana and Cassana, there are no certified drinking-water sources along the intermediate woodland ridge sections.
• The route is supported by dedicated official signs, including yellow arrows and Via dei Monti direction boards, supplemented by the classic CAI red-and-white markers. Download the official GPS track for offline use on your smartphone.