Route description
The tour begins at the Piazza Bastreri square right in the center of Portovenere. First, start hiking through the bushes before taking a set of stairs behind the castle. Then hike on 200 meters above sea level further towards the little village Mortea. It is possible to gain strength for the next part of the tour at one of the numerous restaurants in this charming town.
After an extensive rest you should have enough power for the next part through shrubbery and on a paved street – all the way down to Sella Derbi. During this part the trails are gently ascending and crossing the Pitone-area. The name of the area already tells you what is awaiting you here. “Pitone” is a regional dialect and means “panoramic view”. The landscape is shaped by rock facades from which you have a magnificent view to the Palmaria island and its neighboring islands Tino and Tinietto. You can even see the Cinque Terre coast line from here!
Hike on the ocean side of the Castellan mountain until you reach a paved street. Cross it and head on the path into the pine forest to get to the village Campiglia behind a sports field. The hiking trails from the Gulf of La Spezia unite at this point.
Where to eat
You can get something to eat in the little village Mortea on the first part of the tour.
Interesting facts
- Hiking boots are not required, but the hike might be more enjoyable with sturdy footwear (especially in wet conditions). If you get hungry along the way, there are places to rest and get food. Nevertheless it’s recommended to also have enough water and food in your backpack when hiking or biking.
Highlights of the tour
A definite highlight of the trip is the marvelous view to the islands Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto as well as to the coast line of the Cinque Terre.
Variations
Hike straight ahead to a steep ascent near the Cava Canese towards the Muzzerone fortress – a magnificent view around the area awaits you up there. Then you can follow another paved street downhill until you hit Sella Derbi by the Bay of Le Grazie. The connection trail to the main path # 1 C.A.I. is to be found here. Follow the hillside of the Castellan mountain to the Alta Via del Golfo (AVG) path from Sella Derbi.
Equipment
Sturdy shoes are beneficiary on this hike.
Getting here
By car
You reach Portovenere by car with the SS530.
With public transportation
You can also take the bus lines 11 or P. Alternatively, take the fairy from La Spezia or Lerici to Portovenere.
