Mountain BIke FInale LIgure - 44 itineraries

ISBN 978 88 98609 567 E 30,00

Nicola Pisani

MOUNTAIN BIKE

FINALE LIGURE 44 itineraries

CLIMBING mountaineering snow ice mountain bike hiking

44 itineraries

VERSANTE SUD

Finale Ligure Pietra, Albenga, Borghetto Le Manie, Spotorno Val Bormida Savona Albisola, Celle Varazze, Cogoleto

MOUNTAIN BIKE FINALE LIGURE

What else is special about this book?

- accurate and brand new GPS tracks, so that you can concentrate on pedalling - a complete set of symbols to easily choose the right itinerary for you - maps and profiles to point out your preferred type of terrain for cycling - a video to show you the most attractive sections of the routes - information sheets to be read at leisure, where you can discover who was responsible for creating the best play park in the world.

Cut out the FINALE BIKE CARD and hand it in to our partners, listed on the page on the left; you will be able to benefit from special offers or privileged treatment.

COLLANA LUOGHI VERTICALI

Nicola Pisani

Climbing and mountaineering guidebooks

A selection of 44 circular tours in the area between Finale Ligure, Varazze and the Beigua Park (UNESCO Geopark) allowing you to cover the greatest number of fascinating and technical sections.

Linking up paths which run along ridges, enduro special stages and riding along banked turns through beechwoods, to then return to the departure point on paths and dirt roads, this is the main theme of the guidebook, and the key to how the author will introduce you to the emotions he has experienced in Liguria over his years of passionate cycling.

Giordania, Eliza Kubarska (ph. David kaszlikowski)

bike card

FINALE

www.versantesud.it

www.versantesud.it EDIZIONI VERSANTE SUD

Nicola Pisani, born in 1972, works as an architect in Savona. His passion for cycling has led him to spend most of his free time in contact with nature, always looking for new paths to pedal along.

He was born in Modena, but quickly fell in love with the area of Finale Ligure and Parco del Beigua, where he now lives.

He has spent a few years in Africa working for Médecins Sans Frontières’ projects dealing with the building of Water & Sanitation. After a few kilometres cycled between Zimbabwe and Sierra Leone he is convinced that bikes are the best means of transport for exploring a territory, and that sport is the most innovative instrument to disseminate its culture.

He decided to write his first mountain bike guide to share the areas that have fascinated, welcomed and adopted him. He felt it was his duty towards an area steeped in culture and uphill history, balance and adrenaline downhill.

He takes care of the website: www.finalemountainbike.com

First edition: March 2016 ISBN: 9788898609 567 Copyright © 2011 VERSANTE SUD via Longhi, 10 - Milan, Italy phone +39 02 7490163 www.versantesud.it All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publishers.

Dedicated to

My father

Cover Davide Tardito along the panoramic paths of Manie (photo) Text

Nicola Pisani MTBfinaleligure@versantesud.it

Photos

Nicola Pisani, except for where otherwise specified

English translation

Alexandra Ercolani

Maps and elevation profiles

Chiara Benedetto © OpenStreetMap contributors Creative Commons, license CC-BY-SA 3.0

Editing

Chiara Benedetto

Symbols

Ilaria Niccoli

Printed by

Tipolitografia PAGANI (BS)

Km ZERO

Guide written by local bikers who develop mountain biking here

is a locallyproduced guide

What does that mean?

That it’s healthier and tastier, because it’s made by local bikers.

Like locally-grown vegetables?

Dead right!

And you can’t argue that it’s not genuine.

Local authors are good for bikers: - they have up-to-date information; - they don’t just make advertising; - they contribute to local development Local authors are good for the area: - what you read is carefully written and reflects local feelings; - they are careful to mention all towns, not a selected few; - they are part of a local network And the most important thing:

along their trails, there’s a part of their hearts

Note Mountain biking is a potentially dangerous sport in which participation is entirely at your own risk. All the information in this guide has been updated based upon information at the time of publication, however it is vital to evaluate every situation yourself before placing yourself in a life threatening situation or to seek the advice of experienced and qualified individuals.

It is possible to download the maps of the itineraries from the website www. versantesud.it. All you have to do is follow the link shown on the page dedicated to the guide book and insert the code with 16 digits printed on the label on the first page.

Km ZERO

Guide written by local bikers who develop mountain biking here

Nicola Pisani

MTB FINALE LIGURE 44 itineraries Finale Ligure Pietra, Albenga, Borghetto Le Manie, Spotorno Val Bormida Savona Albisola, Celle Varazze, Cogoleto

EDIZIONI VERSANTE SUD

Preface

Preface

If a tour at Finale were music it would have been written by DJ Shadow Mixing together the broken rhythm of a drumbeat, the Starwars’ sound track, a passage from Aretha Franklin and the acceleration of the Chemical Brothers…and your feet can’t stop moving!

Riding for me represents exploration. Cycling is the perfect speed to discover the territory: talk to your friends, see the rock faces (and Finale is covered in them), the stone walls, the animals (who can’t hear you coming), the churches, the sea. I love cycling uphill looking around and thinking…waiting for that moment… the moment when the fun begins…the descent! I don’t care about going fast, it’s so tiring uphill that going down too fast is a sin. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not an extremist. I love banked turns, steep terrain, technical riding on rock, paths which require steering: for me bike is balance, a bit like rock climbing. I’m not good at jumping, I would love to, but I can’t!

Nicola Pisani

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(photo Andrea Principato)

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Index

Index Thanks 8 Introduction 10 The NORBA Code 14 Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries 16 Tourist information and websites 25 Grading system 26 Pietra Albenga Borghetto 01 Toirano, Santuario di Santa Croce, Monte Acuto, Monte Croce 000 02 Carmo X sempre 000 03 Sentiero del Fieno (red triangle) 000 04 Monte Carmo: double red square from Rif. Pian delle Bosse 000 05 Isallo Extasy via Giustenice 000 Ask the trail builder: interview with Fulvio Balbi 000 Finale 06 Ciappi soft 000 07 Ciappi Strong 000 08 Ponti Romani 09 Ponti Romani - Alternate Take 000 10 Ponti Romani - Semaforo di Capo Noli 000 11 Caprazoppa Enduro 000 Riccardo Negro, the heritage of MTB in Finale in the hands of a young passionate rider 000 12 Caprazzoppa Strinate 000 13 Caprazzoppa Soft 000 14 San Michele men’s Dh 000 15 Perti - Pian Merlino - Rocca Carpanca 000 16 Sentiero delle Nevere (path H) 000 Ice Houses 000 17 Finale - Din - Borgio Verezzi 000 In the woods, work and fun 000 18 Rialto, Din, 115, Campogrande, Perti Sud, Finale 000 19 Dolmen, Rocche Bianche, Manie, Women’s DH 000 Calice 20 Calice - Toboga di Canova - M.d.

Guardia 000 21 Casa del Mago, Rollercoaster, Madonna della Guardia (Kill Bill) 000 22 Ca dell’alpe - Din - Rialto 000 Feglino 23 Crestino via napoleonica 000 24 Colla S. Giacomo - Faggi di Benevento Cravarezza - Legnaia 000 Ivo Camilli: a heart which beats for mountain biking 000

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25 Base Nato - Pian Merlino - Feglino 144 26 Stragroppo Via Regina 148 From Verbania to Finale, passing 4000 m peaks on the way: Pietro Paltani 152 Le Manie Spotorno 27 24h WEMBO 2012 154 The birth of Mountain Biking in Finale: Danilo Basso 158 28 Monte Mao from Spotorno 160 Val Bormida 29 Cinghialtracks 30 All Collina Tour Cinghialtracks

164 168 172

Savona 31 Burot - Baraccone - Monte Alto - ps6 - 5 ponti 174 32 Quiliano - Rocca dei Corvi - Monte Mao 178 Gruppo Mtb CAI Savona 182 33 Monte Mao from Vado 184 www.cicloalpinismo.com 190 34 Savona - Campanello trail - Albisola - Conca Verde 192 Albisola Celle 35 Rio Buraxe and Sentiero Botanico La Borragine (Borago Officinalis) 36 Ellera Bonomo Passo del Crovaro 37 Granfondo Olmo + 6h di Stella

196 199 200 204

Varazze Cogoleto 38 Beigua - Giovo - Alpicella 208 39 Varazze, Faie, Freccia Bianca 212 40 Varazze, San Martino, FS 218 41 Varazze - Beigua - Sassello - Foresta Deiva Stella 222 42 Varazze - Monte Beigua - Local - Hard Rock 226 43 Monte Argentea Tour 230 44 Alta Via dei Monti Liguri

236

Summary of the Itineraries

252

44.2

38 43

Carcare

29-30

36 37

44.3

35

Altare

34 33

Cogoleto

44.1 39-4142

Varazze

Celle

Albisola

Savona

32 31

Rialto

Feglino

22

27

Calice Ligure

44.4

28 Spotorno

23-26

20-21

Bardineto

6-19

5 2 4 3

Vado

Varigotti

Finale Ligure Pietra Ligure

Loano 1

Borghetto Santo Spirito

Albenga

Alassio

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Thanks

Thanks Special thanks to all those who have supported me in this adventure, in particular: -my parents, Rosanna and Enzo, who passed on to me their passion for nature and respect for our territory, without stopping me from exploring different paths from theirs.

-Fosca for her enthusiasm, for writing the interviews “better than I could have done” …and for putting up with me always arriving late for dinner.

-the bikers: Mauro Fardellini, Floro Morelli, Luca Verdino, Ivan Romiti, Sergio Risso, Mirco Rebba, Pische, Simone Giordanello, X60(for my Moreno friends), Vento, Alfo, Red, Agostino, Matteo, Giuliano …and all the others.

Ivo Camilli, Pietro Paltani, Fabrizio Valenti, Danilo Basso, Riccardo Negro for their precious interviews and the work they are doing for Finale The BIT for the work they are carrying out on M. Beigua.

-whoever supported me (put up with me) in every other way: Italo Canepa and colleagues at COSA COworking SAvona, who continued to mark time with me every day in the office: “How many tours have you done?

How many have you still to do?”

Special credit goes to Riccardo “Boavista” Dongo, for cycling and realising splendid paths along the slopes of M. Beigua.

A toast to Giorgio, Ivana and the staff at Ca’de Alice for the welcome at the end of every itinerary even at unsociable hours. This is the magic place where most of the ideas in the book were thought up.

And then Guido “Fast and Furious” Zanone, Monica Ponti and Gualtiero Peirotti.

Chiara and Roberto of Versante Sud for their patience, good humour and moral and technical support.

A special hug for Barbara, Tobi, Lando and Lenya and the other “micro-cyclists” from Innsbruck.

Andrea Principato for the great photos where I seem to be going very fast.

-those who made suggestions for paths, wrote in-depth reports or gave advice:

Lucetta, Fiorella and Valter for the culinary support while meeting the deadline.

Lorenzo Paolo for the videos taken of the itineraries.

Bobo Santi and Roberto Bracco of www.cicloalpinismo.com for prviding me with the itineraries: Campanello trail/Albisola/Conca Verde, Giro del Monte Argentea, Monte Mao da Spotorno, Monte Mao da Vado and the ascent of Rio Buraxe. They have a very passionate and radical vision of this mountain sport.

Filippo Serafini, and the Cinghialtraks team for providing me with the itineraries and the videos “Cinghialtraks” and “All Collina Tour” as well as for the wonderful work they are doing in Val Bormida.

Pino Testa for the valuable historical information, -and then Lorenzo Carlini, Marco “Thomas” Tommasini, Corrado and Luca of Riviera Outdoor, Lorenzo Rebagliati, Paolo and Germana Testa, Lia

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Maranto, Edo and la Simo.

A sincere thanks to the firms who believed in me even if I had never written a guidebook before: -SMP Selle, -Dt Swiss, especially Lorenzo Oldrati -Shwalbe, -Liteville/Axevo, And last but not least, I thank Fulvio Balbi: the person responsible for re-inventing this sport. Without his intuition and dexterity it would have remained “all work and no play”. If he hadn’t written Blue Bike, the first MTB guidebook on Finale, I would probably never have discovered how much I enjoy cycling through these woods.

(photo Andrea Principato)

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Introduction 10

Introduction GEAR You can tackle these itineraries using any kind of bike, personally I am happy to use a full suspension bike in aluminium, but others prefer to use a front suspension bike, especially with 29’ tyres. It is convenient to have an adjustable saddle, due to the continuous change in gradients; hydraulic disc brakes are strongly recommended. Due to the frequent rocky outcrops, I used quite sturdy tyres to avoid

gashes and punctures, which are mounted tubeless.

It is always worth carrying an extra inner tube, a bike pump and equipment for a quick change.

In my backpack I always carry with me a couple of brake pads, a gear cable, derailleur hangers (in case the gears are subject to impact from protruding rocks) a quality multi-tool, a few plastic clamps, a chain link for the chain and a head lamp (to put on your helmet in case you have to ride back in the

(photo Andrea Principato)

dark). It is fundamental to carry with you a camel back or a water bottle. It is not worth saving on water, especially during summer!

It is the responsibility of each biker to wear personal protection such as a helmet, glasses, gloves, knee pads, shoes etc. to avoid getting injured. It is the responsibility of each biker to behave in a way which does not cause risk to others and to help them in case of injury.

I have not used e-bikes, but this new technology is becoming increasingly popular, therefore each itinerary’s profile mentions when there is a reason not to use them. Due to the weight of these bikes,

i

their use is usually not recommended in areas where portage is necessary.

CIRCUITS When I organize a trip the start and finish must coincide: this is what a “circuit trip” implies. Linking up various paths while cycling far from the car, riding down a technical path, climbing up an ancient road and descending along a flowing path in front of the sea should not be taken for granted!

Foreigners are surprised because what they call a “bike park” is in fact a network of paths built up over the centuries by Neolithic shepherds to ancient

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Introduction

Romans, then traversed by queens and armies and finally up to a few years ago used by carts and mules carrying ice or salt. That is Italy: we ride along roads which used to exist in the past and nowadays are used by bikes! This situation allows us to make the most of our history thanks to a young and sporty tourism which is continuously growing, but opens its doors to the difficult theme of depletion of the territory and who should be responsible for the maintenance of this heritage.

CAUTION It is exactly because we are not in a bike park that it is important to remember (except for Men’s DH) that paths belong to the public domain and bikes should above all respect the highway code. We often cross through historic centres passing houses and for this reason it is fundamental to ride slowly!

An uneducated biker can compromise everyone’s fun, causing bans on passage and entry.

Variants Due to the vicinity of the paths to each other, I have preferred to indicate only a few variants during the same trip and creating different itineraries, even using the same name, but on different paths. One might be more technical and steeper, while one might be ideal for beginners while the other one might be more enduro style. In this way everyone can choose their own route depending on their riding style.

RUBBISH AND FIRES Beware not to throw lit cigarette ends in the woods, Liguria unfortunately is sadly known for its frequent fires. There is no rubbish collection in the woods: so please don’t leave anything there. And if somebody before you has been so uncivilised as to do so, it is best to pick it up and carry it back with you. Many will be grateful to you!

MEANS OF TRANSPORT Liguria is a strip of narrow land situated between the sea and the Appenines, carved out by valleys of glacial origin which lie perpendicular to the coast.

The majority of the itineraries develop from the sea towards the hinterland and back. Whenever it is possible it is best to move by TRAIN: the railway line runs parallel to the sea, near the Via Aurelia and makes it possible to reach each coastal town. Apart from some exceptions, each itinerary sets off near a train station making it possible to use it as a means of transport, avoiding parking problems. On all

12

regional (R)and interregional (IR) trains the carriage at the front or at the back has a wagon for transporting bikes and can be recognised thanks to a symbol. Currently in the entire region transportation of bikes is free and no prior booking is required. In Italy train tickets must be stamped before getting on the train, if not you risk a fine.

For information and timetables: www.trenitalia.com

By CAR, during the tourist season, finding a car park near the sea can become a nightmare (expensive and rare). It is worth finding a car park along the internal roads and move around by bike.

EXPLANATION I have never really understood the boundaries between Cross Country, All Mountain and Free Ride. These borders have been made even more transient due to increasingly lighter bikes, with suspension and super efficient design, agile uphill and fun downhill. I think that the best itineraries have a bit of everything in them, you only need to mix the ingredients correctly. After a great ascent and an uneven path, you won’t want to give up on a fun, winding descent through the woods?!

And that is why it becomes difficult to give definitions: luckily there is the All Mountain bike which includes a bit of everything. In fact many of the descent lines described in the book were used in the past editions of the Superenduro, now Enduro World Series, an event which has opened up the horizons of this discipline to many of us. In this book you will find the definition of Cyclo-alpinism which represents the ability to adapt to a terrain which has not been prepared by anyone for riding down on a bike.

There are slower and more technical paths where you sometimes need to push your bike uphill and sometimes downhill. In this book difficult cyclo-alpinism itineraries have not been described, neither technically speaking nor physically.

Beware: once you have overcome the traumas of the first “portage” section, moved beyond the forest line, cycled and balanced above the rock faces, you may become addicted!

DIFFICULTIES I think that the most exhaustive grading system around is the French one, which I have freely adapted to the editorial demands of the series. Apart from the evaluation of difficulties described in the book, it is up to the single rider to evaluate if the

technical level of the trip is superior to his/her abilities. Avoiding an obstacle on foot if you are not ready is a sign of maturity. We have all avoided obstacles on foot to avoid falls.

You will find here a comparative table which compares the main grading systems.

NOT TO BE MISSED In Liguria you eat well: but the best places are very “underground” and difficult to recognise! At the end of each itinerary you will find the name of a bar, trattoria or restaurant, which for various reasons, made an impression on me. Usually they are off the tourist track, where you can find local cooking at an average price in pleasant surroundings. None of the places described knew about the guide and gave me no preferential treatment in order to be mentioned.

I don’t go to them regularly so please keep me up to date on your impressions.

PATHS AND ORIENTEERING The territory described is covered in paths which are more or less ancient, more or less frequented, more or less intricate. We therefore recommend you use a GPS navigation device to avoid getting lost. All the paths described pass along private land, and not all

of them are indicated by signposts, but at the time of going to press, all itineraries described are open to the public and do not conflict with any signposts forbidding access or fencing. I cannot guarantee that in future the owners of private land will not shut off the passage and that a few paths described will not be modified. Therefore this guide should only be used for descriptive purposes and could change over time. Whoever ventures into the woods does so at his/her own risk in danger of getting lost and ending up on private property.

At the same time I have avoided describing paths which have been shut off by a resolution of the local authorities, but I cannot guarantee that in future a few paths will not be shut down. It is up to each single individual to be informed regarding any current bans and to avoid using those paths.

VIDEOS A few itineraries contain a QRcode to which relative videos are associated with the described itinerary.

The aim is to illustrate the highlights and to give an idea of the type of itinerary. In no way does this back up substitute the description or GPS tracks.

Camping Park Mara PA R C O VA C A N Z E

Camping Park Mara PA R C O VA C A N Z E

Via Trento Trieste, 83 - 17022 Borgio Verezzi (SV) Italia T +39 019 610 479 F +39 019 61 85 980 W campingparkmara.it E info@campingparkmara.it

Via Trento Trieste, 83 - 17022 Borgio Verezzi (SV) Italia T +39 019 610 479 F +39 019 61 85 980 W campingparkmara.it E info@campingparkmara.it PA R C O VA C A N Z E

Camping Park Mara

Via Trento Trieste, 83 - 17022 Borgio Verezzi (SV) Italia T +39 019 610 479 F +39 019 61 85 980 W campingparkmara.it E info@campingparkmara.it

The NORBA Code 14

The NORBA Code Give right of way to non-motorized recreationists. People will judge all cyclists by your actions. Since mountain biking is something new it is not always seen by others in a positive way.

Slow down and use caution when ap- proaching or overtaking another, making your presence felt well in advance.

Maintain control of speed at all times and approach turns in anticipation of meeting someone coming round the bend. The speed

should be measured in relation to the type of terrain and personal experi- ence; Stay on designated trails to avoid tram- pling native vegetation and minimize potential erosion to trails by not using muddy trails; Do not disturb wildlife or livestock. Give them time to move out of your way; Do not litter. Pack in and pack out more than your share wherever possible; Respect public and private property in- cluding

On the ramps of Roller Coaster

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trail use signs, leaving gates as you find them.

Always ask owner’s permis- sion to enter their land: “No Entry” often means “Please ask my permission”; Always be self-sufficient. Destination and travel speed will be determined by ability, equipment, terrain, present and potential weather conditions; Do not travel solo when riding in remote areas or if covering long distances. Leave word of your destination and when you plan to return; Observe the practice of minimum impact bicycling by taking only pictures and memories.

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Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries 16

Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries It should be pointed out that the author has cycled along all the itineraries, and the information and data described are subject to changes which are tied to climatic conditions, geologic and external factors which are unpredictable. Each itinerary described consists of five parts: a legend, a general description, a technical description, an elevation profile and a map of the itinerary. All technical data such as distance, altitude and vertical height gain relative to the itineraries have been collected by using a GPS receiver, cyclocomputer and topographical maps.

One must also take into account the possibility of flaws in the data collected due to margin of error of these instruments.

The legend summarizes in detail all the most important characteristics in each itinerary described: The Style of the Itinerary This indicates the type of itinerary, which is strictly connected to the type of bike used to tackle the itinerary, and last but not least, to the psychophysical predisposition with which you tackle it. It is an extremely important parameter to put the description into context and to be able to correctly read the description of the technical and physical difficulties.

The boundary between Cross Country, All Mountain and Free Ride is increasingly blurred due to the light weight bikes with suspensions and super efficient geometries, which result agile uphill and fun to ride downhill. In this territory the best itineraries are the ones that have a bit of everything, you only need to mix the ingredients correctly. After all, after enjoying a fun uphill cycle, the time comes to enjoy a technical path along speedy hair pin bends through the woods. It thus becomes difficult to give definitions which are coherent throughout the trip: the All Mountain bike can be of help since it includes a bit of everything. In fact many descent lines described in the book were born as freeriding lines which were then linked up and used in the past editions of the Superenduro, now Enduro World Series, an event which has pushed the horizons of this discipline for us all.

ALL

Itinerary for everyone Cycling paths and dirt roads which do not require any technical skill, even if it does not exclude a minimum amount of training to be tackled. No special bike nor equipment is required, but a helmet is always recommended.

XC

Cross country Often marked as “XC”, these itineraries require lungs and legs, and only occasionally do they offer difficult obstacles. It is best to have a sturdy bike, be it either a hard tail or a full suspension. A helmet is obligatory.

AM

All mountain The acronym often used is “AM”: it is best not to improvise here. With the advent and fashion of enduro, this category of itinerary is varied and includes tracks where the downhill aspect often prevails, while others are in search of adventure and exploration. Good bike handling skills are required on technical terrain, both uphill and downhill, and a few uphill sections do not exclude sections on foot. A full suspension bike is recommended, better if fitted out with shock absorbers which have good suspension travel. A full face helmet is optional while knee pads and elbow pads often come in useful.

FR Freeride

It is strongly recommended not to improvise when choosing to tackle a freeride course. The itineraries are usually called “gravity”, a spin off from the competitive discipline of downhill, these trails are aimed at riders looking for a thrilling descent downhill. Sometimes the tracks have been built specifically, with purpose built structures such as drops, jumps, gang

Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries 18

planks, banked turns and often, include very technical and difficult passages. As well as specific bikes for this type of riding, protective armour is indispensable as well as excellent bike handling skills, experience and the awareness of one’s limits. A recce lap is recommended even for expert riders.

ALP

Cyclo-alpinism Itineraries along paths that nobody has built for riding down. They are slower and more technical paths where sometimes you need to push your bike uphill and every now and then even downhill. Cycloalpinism itineraries which are too difficult, both physically and technically have not been described, but a certain ability and experience is indispensable to move around and orient yourself sufficiently in a mountain environment, keeping in mind how weather conditions can change.

Once you get over the shock of your first “portage”, moving beyond the forest’s tree line, and cycling while balancing above rock faces can lead to addiction!

Type of terrain: the itinerary is divided up according to the composition of the terrain itself. Approximate information has been provided giving an idea of the type of terrain you will be cycling along. A colour is allocated to each type of terrain, even on the elevation profile and on the map. If the terrain changes continuously for short sections, the prevailing colour will be used.

As follows: Cycling path: blue Asphalt road: black Cobble stone road or cement: grey Dirt road or farm road: brown Mule track: yellow Path: green Any eventual variants to the itinerary described: red.

Period: suggests the best season to tackle the itinerary, taking into consideration the temperatures and current snow cover and the quantity of foliage along the path. If the winter is exceptionally snowy, or on the contrary, there is no snow at all, these factors could obviously affect this parameter.

Starting point: Indicates the area and the relative GPS coordinates from where the itinerary begins, keeping in mind, where possible, the presence of car parks and /or tourist facilities nearby.

Maximum altitude reached: indicates the maximum altitude reached along the itinerary, this number is very useful in terms of choosing what to wear. If the weather forecast is uncertain, at the beginning of spring time and late autumn itineraries which develop along lower altitudes should be chosen.

Positive vertical height gain: it refers to the total sum of all the metres cycled uphill, including the up and down sections. It is for this reason that this number (which comes from reading the elevation with a GPS receiver) is often higher than adding together the uphill section’s vertical height gain. The real vertical gain and the average time taken to cover the itinerary are among the most indicative pieces of information used to evaluate the itinerary’s real difficulty.

Distance: length in kilometres of the itinerary, from the starting point to the finishing point. The numbers have been calculated with the help of the GPS receiver.

The kilometric length of the itinerary can be easily calculated by using the elevation which goes with each itinerary’s description.

For those using a cyclocomputer, keep in mind that the measurements obtained from this instrument can be different from those collected by a GPS, with a variation of up to 10%.

Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries 20

Total time taken: the time that an average mountain biker takes to ride along the entire itinerary, including breaks to take photos, admire the landscape and stop off for a bite to eat. Intervals divided into 3 hours, ½ day, 1 day have been drawn from the French grading system.

Fast and fit mountain bikers will take

less time, but this parameter is plausible for those preferring an easy rhythm, or due to bad weather this number could increase considerably. Keeping an eye on the kilometres and altitude each rider will be able to adjust this number depending on his/her personal level of fitness and experience.

Bobo Santi (photo Filippo Serafini)

Technical difficulties: The parameter is based on five guidelines: none, low, medium, difficult and extreme as illustrated in the next table the level of ability required to enjoy oneself and in brackets the grade of difficulty found along the itinerary.

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This parameter must be read keeping in mind what bike will be used: an itinerary on a full suspension bike with generous suspension travel will offer reduced technical difficulties, becoming in some cases even easy.

The same itinerary will become more difficult if riding a front with reduced

21

Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries

suspension travel. In any case the evaluation refers to the conditions of a dry path. With rain and mud, especially along pre-alpine sections on limestone rocks the difficulties increase exponentially compared to what is indicated.

We recommend you choose and tackle itineraries based on one’s ability so as not to find yourself in dangerous situations or situations that would compromise the fun in riding along an itinerary. The grading system refers to a hilly environment, even if the territory described is quite technical and vertical. It is best to start on easier itineraries so as to have an idea of the difficulties.

Possibility of pedalling uphill and downhill: it indicates with a percentage number if it is possible to pedal along the entire itinerary or not. Due to the steepness or the uneven terrain along a few sections a cyclist may be forced to get off his/her bike. In this case it is not possible to fix an objective limit, and an indication is given taking into consideration an average mountain biking level.

E-bike: Bicycles with assisted pedal power are increasingly popular. There are many reasons to consider this vehicle as a valid alternative, as well as the technology that in the future will radically change this sport. Specifically for this guide book, the author has used a traditional bike, therefore the data described refers to pedalling throughout the entire itinerary. To give information to those who prefer to tackle an ascent with an “electrical assistance” this icon indicates if the trip is suitable for an e-bike, taking into consideration all the different necessities. There are in fact differences which aren’t entirely negligible and which can change the outcome of a trip: above all the bike’s weight can be a

22

determining factor if portage is necessary or technical descents on rock where the bike’s weight could go against the agility factor.

Mountain huts (rifugio): indicates the mountain huts along the route, when possible at the end of a tiring stretch. In some cases there are also bars or restaurants. Before setting off it is always better to check the opening dates of huts.

Water fountains: indications are given as to where fountains can be found along the route to fill up with water.

Areas crossed: the areas crossed are listed in chronological order with its relative altitude. Each place or town has a number next to it, which is marked on the elevation profile, on the map and in the text, making the description of the itinerary as clear as possible. In a few cases as well as the town, even junctions, or generic points are marked, to help understand the direction.

Main text: these are short descriptions of the itinerary, mentioning the itinerary’s main characteristics.

Technical description: presents indications to be followed when riding along the itinerary. Left and right, when not specifically described, refer to the direction you are going in. In points of special interest a number is marked on the map to make the itinerary’s description easier to understand.

Where there is clear signposting along the route the description will flow more and be more intuitive, instead where the signposting is lacking, for obvious reasons it will be more detailed. Remember that you might often meet pedestrians or agricultural vehicles on the routes, therefore great care and courtesy are required.

Situated in one of FINALE LIGURE’S valleys, this tourist centre is well known for its fine sand and for its magnificent hinterland which has made it the world outdoor capital of mountain biking, rock climbing, trekking, horse riding, diving, sailing and a lot more.

The campsite’s strategic position offers all lovers of nature a wide variety of hiking or mountain biking itineraries, and its well known rock climbing crags.

As well as tent pitches we offer apartments situated along the little streets typical of Ligurian historic centres which surround the two large swimming pools with jacuzzi and water games, with a bar, restaurant, pizzeria and minimarket.

SERVICES Residence & Camping Bike Room / Bike rental/ wash area Restaurant / Pizzeria (Kids Menu)/ Bar Farm/ Stables Car park/ Shuttle bus Minimarket / Laundromat- self service

Meeting room Entertainment / Kids play area Semi olympic swimming pool/ Kids swimming pool Relax area with jacuzzi and solarium Football pitch/ ping pong Open air gym

Information on how to use this guide book

Cycling through the beech trees (photo Filippo Serafini)

24

The elevation profile summarizes the vertical height gain covered along the entire itinerary. On the X axis, the kilometres are marked, while on the Y axis the altitude above sea level is marked, the areas crossed are indicated on the profile line. The map represents the entire itinerary. Important points are highlighted on the map with numbers which you will find on the elevation profile and in the text.

The map used in this guide book is smallscale, we therefore recommend the use of more detailed excursion maps with a scale of 1:25.000.

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Bibliography “Blue Bike” F. Balbi, E. Belmonte, A.Gallo Idee Verticali ed. 2006 “La strada Beretta, 1666 Una via per l’imperatrice” Giusppe Testa Associazione ”Centro Storico del Finale” editore, 2003 “Le strade di ieri” Giusppe Testa Associazione Entroterra editore, 2007 “Mountain Bike in Dolomiti” Enrico Raccanelli, Luca De Antoni Versante Sud ed. 2013

Websites www.cicloalpinismo.com www.cinghialtracks.it www.mtb-mag.com www.openstreetmsp.org www.parcobeigua.it www.vttrack.fr www.superenduromtb.com Cartographic References - Carta dei sentieri di Celle Ligure, a cura dei volontari della Protezione Civile, Comune di Celle Ligure, 1:10000 - Cartoguida ALP Finalese, Vivalda Editori 1:25000

“Sentieri di Finale” Marco Tomassini Versante Sud ed. 2013

- MTB Finale Ligure, Bikehotels Finale Ligure 1:25000

“Sulle tracce del lupo” Ente Parco Beigua 2015

- Parco del Beigua, Ente Parco Beigua 1:25000

I LAMOI

Via della Pineta - 17024 Finale Ligure (SV) Tel: +39 019 2041386 +39 019 690327 Cell: +39 328 3780206 Email: info@ilamoi.it

agriturismo biologico azienda agricola dal 1911

26 TC: (touristic) itinerary on dirt road with a compact and smooth surface, like a road for vehicles MC: (for cyclo-excursionists of average technical ability) itinerary on dirt road with a surface which is not very uneven and not too irregular (natural surface, country road) or on paths with compact and smooth surface BC: (for cyclo-excursionists with good technical abilities) itinerary on very uneven dirt roads or on mule tracks and paths with quite uneven surface but still quite smooth or compact but irregular, with a few natural obstacles (for e.g. rock steps or roots) OC: (for cyclo-excursionists with excellent technical abilities) same as above but on paths with very uneven surface and/or very irregular, with the significant presence of obstacles EC: (maximum level for the extreme cycloexcursionist! But possibly to be avoided on social outings) itinerary along irregular paths, characterised by steps and obstacles in continuous succession which require good trail riding technique

M1: road, smooth dirt, weak gradient <12% M2: road, road with regular surface, strong gradient, >12%, easy path (smooth, width >50cm and gradient <10%) M3: dirt road with irregular surface and strong gradient >12%, difficult path (presence of stones, width >50cm or gradient superior to 10%), non rideable along some short sections < 500m (of total length) M4: very difficult path (steps, roots, sharp rocks), not rideable along some sections > 500m (of total length), short sections of portage <500m of vertical height level M5: portage > 500m vertical height gain

Medium: dirt road with irregular surface with steep gradient >12%, difficult path (presence of stones, width >50cm or gradient superior to 10%), non rideable along some short sections < 500m (of total length)

Difficult: very difficult path (steps, roots, sharp rocks), not rideable along sections > 500m (of total length), short sections of portage <500m vertical height gain

Extreme: portage > 500m vertical height gain

Easy: road, dirt road with regular surface, steep gradient >12%, easy path (smooth, width >50cm and gradient <10%)

None: road, smooth dirt, weak gradient <12%

Italian CAI

French VTT

VERSANTE SUD

S4: steep and slippery terrain, difficult turning points which require trail riding technique

S3: terrain which is mainly slippery, difficult steps (“crown size”), difficult turning points

S2: presence of slippery sections with a few steps

S1: more difficult paths but with a non slippery surface with absence of steps

S0: not very steep paths, easy turning points, accessible to anyone

DE-AU

Technical difficulty of ascent: for an impartial evaluation of the ascent’s technical difficulties the following parameters are used: surface, gradients of ramps, obstacles (uneven), the need to push or portage.

GRADING SYSTEM

Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries

28 TC: (touristic) itinerary on dirt roads with compact and smooth surface like a road for vehicles MC: (for cyclo-excursionists of medium technical ability) itinerary on dirt road with a surface which is not very uneven and not too irregular (natural surface, country roads..) or along paths with compact and smooth surface BC: (for cyclo-excursionists with good technical abilities) itinerary on very uneven dirt roads or along mule tracks with quite uneven surface but which is quite smooth or compact but irregular, with a few natural obstacles (for example rock steps or roots) OC: (for cyclo-excursionists with excellent technical abilities) as above but along paths with uneven surface and/or irregular, with a significant presence of obstacles.

EC: (maximum level for cyclo-excursionist... extreme! But possibly to be avoided on social outings) itinerary along irregular paths, characterised by steps and obstacles in continuous succession which require good trail riding technique.

T1: dirt road, wide path (>50cm), weak gradient (<20%), ramps and obstacles absent (smooth itinerary), wide turns T2: wide path, medium gradient (from 20% to 30%), ramps are absent, easy obstacles (stones with diameter which is less than 5 cm), easy steps T3: narrow path (<50cm), steep gradient (>30%), easy ramp or short complex sections, few (<10) difficult obstacles (roots, narrow passages <30cm, stones with diameters of 5cm to 15 cm) difficult steps (with acute angles, high, in sequence, with narrow exits or bend) T4: narrow path, steep, steep gradient, long and steep ramps, many (>10) difficult obstacles (narrow passages >30cm, rocky sections, short trial riding passages) many difficult obstacles, few (<10) very difficult obstacles or requiring trail riding (rocks, steep gradients on exit, steep and precise hair pin bends to be tackled in nosepress) T5: extreme gradient, long trial like passages, many obstacles (>10) to be tackled with trail riding technique

Easy: wide path, medium gradient (from 20% to 30%), ramps are absent, easy obstacles (stones with diameter which is less than 5 cm), easy steps

Medium: narrow path (<50cm), steep gradients (>30%), easy ramps or short, complex sections, few (<10) difficult obstacles (roots, narrow passages <30cm, stones with diameters from 5 to 15cm of diameter) difficult steps (with acute angles, high, in sequence, with narrow exits, or bend)

Extreme: extreme gradient, long trial like passage, many obstacles (>10) to be tackled with trial riding technique

Difficult: narrow path, steep gradient, long and steep ramps, many (>10) difficult obstacles (narrow passages >30cm, rocky sections, short trial like passages), many difficult obstacles, few (<10) very difficult or trial like obstacles (rocks, steep gradients on exit, steep and precise hair pin bends to be tackled in nosepress)

None: dirt road, wide path (>50cm), weak gradient (<20%), ramps and no hurdles (smooth itinerary) wide turns

Italian CAI

French VTT

VERSANTE SUD

S4: steep and slippery, difficult and slippery, difficult turning points which require trial riding technique

S3: terrain which is slippery, very difficult steps (“crown size”), difficult turning points

S2: presence of slippery sections with a few steps

S1: more difficult paths with slippery surface and absence of steps

S0: paths which aren’t very steep, simple turning points, accessible to anyone.

DE-AU

Technical difficult of descent: to objectively evaluate the difficulty of the descent two parameters are used: the first represents the minimum level of abilities required to enjoy the itinerary, the second one (in brackets) is the most difficult level found along the itinerary which lies between 10% and 20% of total length. The grades are based on the following parameters, surface, gradient, ramps, obstacles and steps.

Information on how to use this guide book and how to read the itineraries

Pietra Albenga Borghetto > Toirano, Santuario di Santa Croce, Monte Acuto, Monte Croce

01

Pietra Albenga Borghetto

Toirano, Santuario di Santa Croce, Monte Acuto, Monte Croce

01

ALP

****

Cycling path Asphalt road Paved road Dirt road Mule track Path

0% 60% 0% 7% 0% 33%

All year round Borghetto Santo Spirito, 20 m N44° 06’ 50.1” E8° 13’ 55.0” 750 m 900 m 26 km 1 day Very easy Difficult (very difficult) 98% 99%

01

Technical Notes An extremely panoramic itinerary which runs along an alpine ridge at low altitude: the vertical height gain and the total length of the trip are contained, the ascent is up easy asphalt on a constant gradient. Once you ride past the Monte Croce sanctuary you will be immersed in unique surroundings. The sharp ridge which drops down to the sea is so obvious that it is impossible to choose the wrong path. The flowers in bloom and the intense green accentuate the blue of the wide open horizon; the vegetation, the colours and the perfume quickly change as we lose height.

But the true protagonist of the day is the rocky surface which requires good handling skills from start to finish. The rock, which is very different from the Finale’s limestone is a lot harder and sharper being reminiscent of Dolomia rock which is usually found at high altitude. An itinerary which does not allow any distractions, a lot of steering is required, ideal for lovers of balance and technical itineraries.

Description of Itinerary From Borghetto Santo Spirito (1) (km 0) reach Toirano (2). Pass through the town centre (water) (km 1.6) and start along the panoramic ascent on the Provincial Road 34 which quickly gains height till it reaches the inhabited area of Balestrino (3) (km 6,6) (water). Continue uphill to an altitude of 650m and on the highest point of the valley, where the road climbs over towards Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena, a white road branches off (water) (km12,2) towards Monte Croce Sanctuary. Along the ridge with easy ups and downs you will quickly reach the Sanctuary (4) where the descent begins (km 14,2). Go round the building on the right following the signs: red square which will accompany you all the way to the sea. The path faithfully follows the ridge line making it almost impossible to get lost. Proceeds among rocks, the rock rose in full bloom and low trees make the surrounding environment striking. Head towards M. Acuto (5) which you go round on the right (km 16,5) cycling on the side of the mountain along a narrow and stony path. Once you go past Monte Sopra Toirano (621 m, km 17,2) reach the base of Monte Croce (6) (km 18,5) where it is possible to follow the signs, going round the summit along a 800

4

5

600

6 3

400

200

1

2

7

metri

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-200

30

0 km

4

8

12

16

20

24

1

SP 60

Toirano 2

Balestrino 3

4

Santuario Di Monte Croce

Borghetto Santo Spirito 1 5

Monte Acuto 6

Monte Croce

7

Ceriale

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Bobo Santi riding along the ridge between Monte Acuto and Monte Croce.

Toirano, ... , Monte Croce

01

Toirano at the bottom of the valley

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Borghetto, Toirano, Balestrino, Ceriale Toirano, Balestrino, SP44 Areas crossed 1 Borghetto Santo Spirito (0 m) 2 Toirano (50 m) 3 Balestrino (375 m) 4 Santuario Di Monte Croce (541 m) 5 Monte Acuto (748 m) 6 Monte Croce (541 m) 7 Ceriale (0 m)

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flat path, or else follow the steep ridge path. In this case with a hundred metres of vertical height gain (portage) reach the top and then go on to the downhill path, which seen from below, seems as great as it is steep. Continuing along the ridge gradually lose height, the vegetation changes and you are by now near monte Piccaro immersed in Mediterranean scrub. Once you reach the junction faithfully follow the signs: red square up to an altitude of 70m. Continue towards west along a flat path which ends on via Piaccardone near the cemetery of Ceriale (7) (km 22,9).

Once you are at sea level all you have to do is cycle along the via Aurelia in a north easterly direction towards Borghetto till you reach the starting point (km 25,2).

Not to be missed - The spring flowers in bloom - Beer at Da Malin, (Piazza Parodi 14, Toirano tel.+39 329 9478585)

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Pietra Albenga Borghetto > Carmo X sempre

02

Pietra Albenga Borghetto

Carmo X sempre

02

ALP

****

Cycling path Asphalt road Paved road Dirt road Mule track Path

0% 46% 0% 26% 0% 28%

March – December Pietra L., 115 m Motorway toll A10 N44°09’16,2” E8°16’16,0” 1400 m 1450 m 32 km 1 day Difficult Difficult (very difficult) 80% 95%

02

Technical notes Wise men say that the tour of Monte Carmo is the “cyclo-alpinism” tour which is closest to the sea: how to adapt to the terrain is the distinctive feature of itineraries at altitude. Not much water, technical steering on uneven terrain, sustained gradients, variable weather conditions and a minimum amount of exposure are the characteristics of this wild and majestic environment. The uphill part to Giogo di Giustenice is all rideable with a view of the sea under the shade of chestnut trees. After Giogo climb up from the steep northern side where you will manage with a few minutes of portage. At the end of the woods is where the party begins!

You can go along the 250 m which separate you from the top or choose to start the descent directly towards the sea. The path, among pastures and woods is exciting and never dull; be careful not to lose sight of the signs. During spring the snow can make the ascent difficult and during late autumn leaves complicate the descent: the best period is from April to October. Once you reach an altitude of 1000 metres continue following the sign: X which is totally rideable and turns to the left of Monte Ravinet, or else choose to complicate your life by taking the detour for San Pietro to Monti: a technical descent for those who love steep terrain, the historic network of roads and wide open views. The paths all lead back to the Church of San Pietrino from where the last part of the descent sets off.

Description of Itinerary From the car park beside the motorway toll of Pietra Ligure (km 0) (100 m) (1) follow, on the flat, Via Della Pace, and after 300m, to the left Via Ranzi. Straight after the motorway bridge take the dirt road on the right (km 0,95) which, going over the hill, leads you to Giustenice. Once you reach the provincial road 24 (3,1 km) turn left, heading uphill. Go past the Piazza del Comune (km 4,3 water) (140 m) (2) continue on asphalt along via Partigiani following the brown signposts for Monte Carmo (signs: red square). At km 6,9 in front of the enclosure for the aqueduct basins, turn right, uphill. At km 7,8 the asphalt ends and continues uphill constantly, all rideable on a forestry road, following the signs: red square; continue then along the signs: red triangle which lead you to Giogo di Giustenice (km 14,3) (1140 m) (3). Once you reach the picnic area keep following the red triangle sign, 1500

4 3 5

1000

500

7 1

2

1

metri

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-500

34

0 km

5

10

15

20

25

30

Giogo di Giustenice 3

4 Monte Carmo

Giustenice 2

torrente Nimbalto 5 Caâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Du Foâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

1

Pietra Ligure motorway toll

6

San Pietro ai Monti

SP 60

7

San Pietrino

35

02

which continues along the steep uphill path on the left: follow the same signs all the way to km 15,4. The path to the north of the top of Carmo very soon becomes steep and no longer rideable, but after a few minutes of portage it gradually becomes flatter. Go around the Giustenice, San Pietro ai Monti, hill in a clock-wise direction, keeping the summit to your left, until San Pietrino you come out of the woods and pop out on to a large meadow with Areas crossed the sea in the background: on clear days it is possible to see Corsica.

1 Pietra Ligure motorway toll At this point in a few minutes you can climb up the 250m which (115 m) separate you from the summit (1389m) (4) or else begin the descent.

2 Giustenice (175 m) From here onwards the red X will be your guide all the way to the 3 Giogo di Giustenice (1150 m) finish! Continuing along pastures head east towards the Rifugio 4 Monte Carmo (1389 m) Amici del Carmo, but turn west before reaching it. The descent 5 Ca’ Du Fo’ (1000 m) thus begins through the woods, beautiful but at the same time 6 San Pietro ai Monti (850 m) misleading: it is very easy to lose the red X especially along the 7 San Pietrino (475 m) meadows. Once you reach an altitude of 1000 m you will find a ruin in the woods: Ca’ Du Fo’ (km 18,6) (5) (Var.A). Continue and leave Monte Ravinet on the right. The downhill part, sometimes quite technical on rock, and sometimes quick through the woods, will lead you to the little church of San Pietrino (km 22,0) (475 m) (7). Shortly afterwards you will find a drinking trough (km

Carmo X sempre

Giustenice, Loano

36

Following the red X on the meadows at altitude (photo Filippo Serafini)

22,7) (350 m) (8), a source of water which is not guaranteed, but used by locals up to now with no unpleasant surprises. Continue downhill, along a paved path, till you meet asphalt above the hamlet of Boissano (23,5 km). Turn left on Via delle Ginestre and reach a junction with SP 25 (km 25,1) which you follow downhill till you reach a roundabout on Via Aurelia (km 27,5) where you turn left. At this point the main objective is to head back towards the motorway toll which can be reached following the Aurelia road to the hospital and then to the left towards the motorway “Autostrada”. A less congested alternative is along the internal roads of Via della Rimembranza and Via Castellari which take you back to the starting point (km 32,8) (100m) (1).

Variant A A few metres after Ca’ Du Fo’, to the left, a downhill path which is not very evident sets off along San Pietro ai Monti (signs: two red dots). After 500 m

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downhill through the woods, you will find a hairpin bend to the left, after this follow the sign: =red in a south-easterly direction, on the contour line. After 1,6 km along a path made difficult by an aqueduct pipe you will reach the panoramic church of San Pietro ai Monti (water – not always) (825 m) (6). Keep on following the sign =red then one of the area’s most exciting technical descents begins: along narrow hair pin bends to be tackled in nose press along steep rocks and almost alpine style exposure, ride down through the valley along an ancient path which closer to the valley becomes more and more paved. At the church of San Pietrino you join back up with the itinerary again meeting the red X sign.

Not to be missed The variety of beers at the Barone Rosso, the pizza is also very good. Excellent pub to spend a few hours in company after riding all day. (Via Chiazzari, 18, Pietra Ligure, tel. +39 019 625093).

37