Mulino di Michelino - Case Cantini (REL trail marker)

The itinerary begins on the cool valley floor, by the stream and the remains of Mulino di Michelino, an old hydraulic structure once used by local farming communities to grind cereals and chestnuts. The trail immediately leaves the river area and starts a steady, at times demanding, climb along the mountain slope.

The route develops entirely within a dense and evocative woodland dominated by centuries-old chestnut trees, holm oaks and hornbeams. Walking along this old communication route, hikers encounter dry-stone walls now partially reclaimed by vegetation and the ruins of old "casoni" (chestnut-drying buildings), evidence of the intense human activity that characterised these valleys in past centuries.

The ascent ends upon reaching the upper hillside area at Case Cantini. This small cluster of partially restored stone houses stands in a sunny position on the ridge and is surrounded by pastures and clearings. From Case Cantini the view opens towards the mountains of the La Spezia hinterland, and the saddle provides a quick connection to the upper variants of the Alta Via delle Cinque Terre.

The trail develops mainly on an unpaved surface covered by a thick layer of dry leaves for much of the year. There are no exposed passages or technical difficulties. However, because of the very shaded woodland environment, the ground retains moisture for a long time: steep sections and emerging rocks can become very slippery after rainfall. Hiking boots and trekking poles are recommended.