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- PASSION
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Trekking along the Ancient Salt Routes: Zuccarello – Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena – Erli
One of the most fascinating routes in the Savona hinterland, offering a glimpse of the most authentic side of Liguria: the stone villages, olive groves and ancient trade routes that for centuries linked the coast to Piedmont.
Walking along a splendid medieval mule track linking Zuccarello and Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena, we will pass through landscapes rich in history and nature, following a stretch of the ancient Salt Roads. Together we will discover the figure of Ilaria del Carretto, the noblewoman immortalised by the famous funerary monument sculpted by Jacopo della Quercia and preserved in Lucca Cathedral.
Our route begins in the historic centre of Zuccarello, characterised by ancient stone houses, long porticoes and the picturesque single-arched bridge over the River Neva. Once we have crossed the village, we will take the ancient mule track leading to the ruins of Zuccarello Castle, continuing through olive groves, terraced fields and wooded stretches until we reach Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena.
The village is visible from afar, perched on a rocky outcrop dominated by its medieval castle. Considered one of the most picturesque villages in Liguria, it is often described as a ‘stone flower’: the houses cluster around the fortress like the petals of a flower.
The village comes into view from afar, perched on a rocky outcrop dominated by its medieval castle. Considered one of the most picturesque villages in Liguria, it is often described as a ‘stone flower’: the houses cluster around the fortress like the petals of a flower.
We are in the land of the Marquises Del Carretto, one of Italy’s most important feudal families, who for centuries vied for control of the territory with the House of Savoy and the Republic of Genoa. Castelvecchio Castle was one of the symbols of their power, until it suffered severe damage in 1672 during the clashes between Genoa and the House of Savoy, in which the famous mercenary Bastian Contrario also took part.
The trek then continues towards Erli, a small village in the upper Val Neva, nestled in greenery and surrounded by ancient terraces, olive groves and woods. This area still retains the atmosphere of the rural Liguria of yesteryear, characterised by mule tracks, small hamlets and a slow pace of life. Walking along these historic paths, we will come to understand the importance of the Salt Roads, which for centuries served as vital commercial and cultural links between the Ligurian coast and the Piedmontese hinterland.
Technical details
Circular route
Length: 12 km
Elevation gain: 350 m
Difficulty: suitable for regular walkers
The route follows ancient mule tracks and hiking trails. There is a short river crossing: we recommend bringing a small towel and, if necessary, a spare pair of socks
What to bring
Water (at least 1 litre)
Packed lunch
Sun cream
Bandana or hat
Technical clothing in layers
Hiking boots
Hiking poles (for those who are used to using them)
Personal first-aid kit
Towel and spare socks for the short ford to be crossed.
Meeting point: 10.00 am at the entrance to Zuccarello opposite the monument to Ilaria del Carretto, Via Armando Tornatore.
FREE EVENT organised by the Associazione Antiche Vie del Sale with the support of the Fondazione De Mari.
BOOKING REQUIRED via the form (CLICK HERE)
Contacts and info
Do you have any doubts or questions? Contact us now, we will be happy to help you organize your holiday in the Finale Outdoor Region.
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