Variant 551 via San Bernardo

The route branches off as a variant of the main trail 551 in the mountain area overlooking the Levanto valley. It climbs the wooded slope with steep sections, following old tracks historically used for transhumance and connections between the two sides of the ridge. The key point of the itinerary is the passage near San Bernardo, a historic pass of major strategic importance in past centuries, where rest and hospitality facilities once served travellers moving between the coast and the Val di Vara. Surrounded by dense vegetation dominated by chestnut trees and tall Mediterranean scrub, the trail offers a cool and sheltered environment, ideal for hikers looking for a route with a strong historic character away from the busiest coastal flows.

The trail surface may be uneven, with loose stones and frequent damp leaves or mud, especially during winter months or after recent rainfall. Hiking shoes with good grip and trekking poles are recommended to assist progression on the steeper sections.