Vallesanta - Monte delle Streghe - Passo del Colletto

Step-by-step itinerary

1. Departure from Vallesanta

The adventure starts at sea level in Vallesanta, the evocative inlet at the western end of Levanto Bay, close to the entrance to the Maremonti cycle path. The trail immediately begins a decisive climb along an unpaved road skirting Villa Rossana. After gaining the first metres of elevation and crossing provincial road SP 332, the route enters the Ligurian natural landscape.

2. Climb to Monte delle Streghe

Shortly after entering the Mediterranean scrub, the trail divides into two variants leading to the summit of Monte delle Streghe, at 288 metres above sea level:

• The direct route — trail 671: suitable for hikers who prefer steep gradients and want to reach the summit quickly.
• The quarry variant — trail 671V: a gentler route along the eastern slope, following an evocative track once used by the old red-marble quarries.

The two variants rejoin shortly above the summit on a natural plateau offering an exceptional first panoramic terrace over the sea.

3. Ridge traverse to Passo del Colletto

From the summit, the trail continues along the ridge among maritime pines, holm oaks, strawberry trees and broom, surrounded by the blue horizon. The gradient becomes steadier until it reaches Passo del Colletto, at approximately 460 metres above sea level, a major hiking crossroads in the area.

From the pass, hikers can end the route, descend towards the historic village of Lavaggiorosso via trail 673 or continue climbing towards the summit of Monte Rossola.

Useful hiking advice

• Footwear: hiking shoes with a lugged sole are strongly recommended because of steep sections, uneven ground and slippery rocks.
• Water and sun exposure: there are no drinking-water refill points along the route. Carry an adequate supply, especially during warmer periods when the trail is heavily exposed to the sun.