Monte Rossola Ridge Trail (Rimessa - Rocca Galbana - Passo del Colletto)

The itinerary starts from the locality of Rimessa, a road pass situated along the provincial route connecting the Aurelia road to the coast. The trail immediately follows the ridge line towards the sea. From the very first metres, tall vegetation disappears and gives way to sparse heathland and a distinctly geological landscape dominated by red jasper and dark ophiolitic rocks, including gabbro and serpentinite.

The first section of the climb reaches the summit of Monte Rossola at 563 metres above sea level, topped by a large metal cross. From here, the view is extraordinary and embraces the Ligurian coast through 360 degrees, from the Cinque Terre to the Portofino Promontory and, on the clearest days, as far as Corsica and the Maritime Alps.

From the summit, the trail continues westwards along the narrow ridge, offering continuous views over the cliffs below. The route skirts and crosses the evocative rocky formations of Rocca Galbana, an area characterised by spectacular red-stone pinnacles and passages over debris-covered terrain. Beyond this section, the trail begins a steeper and steadier descent along the slope, once again immersed in tall Mediterranean scrub of strawberry tree and heath, until it reaches Passo del Colletto. This pass is a fundamental junction for the local hiking network, allowing hikers to descend quickly towards Bonassola or Levanto or connect with the coastal Sentiero Verdeazzurro.

The itinerary develops almost entirely along an exposed rocky ridge without tall vegetation. Although mountaineering equipment is not required, the surface consists of friable rock, stone steps and loose gravel that make progression unstable, especially on steep descents. A head for heights, a steady step and the utmost care are required in strong south-westerly winds or after recent rain, when rocks and clay become extremely slippery. High hiking boots with a lugged sole, such as Vibram or equivalent, are mandatory. There are no water sources along the entire route.