The route at a glance
- Start: Varigotti, in the upper part of the village, where a flight of steps with an information board near Via Strada Vecchia leads onto the path.
- Finish: Noli. It can also be walked the other way.
- Length: about 6.3 km.
- Time: 3-4 hours, depending on pace and stops.
- Height gain: about 350 metres up and the same down.
- Grade: E (hiking path). Some stretches are steep and exposed, but no equipment is needed.
What you will see
Just above Varigotti you reach San Lorenzo Vecchio, a medieval church on a headland overlooking the Baia dei Saraceni. The path continues through Mediterranean scrub and white limestone cliffs, with views of Punta Crena and the sea. A short detour leads to the Grotta dei Falsari, a large natural cave open to the sea; further on you see the Malpasso, a limestone column more than 250 metres high. Finally you walk down to Noli, a medieval town with the church of San Paragorio.
Practical tips
- Wear hiking shoes, not trainers: several stretches are stony.
- Bring enough water and a hat, especially in summer.
- In the hot months, start early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- In rain or strong wind the exposed stretches become slippery: better to postpone.
Getting back
From Noli a local bus takes you back to Varigotti along the Aurelia, so there is no need to retrace your steps. If you leave the car in Noli, do it the other way round: bus to Varigotti, then walk back.
Where to stay
From Smeraldo and Acquamarina, in central Finale Ligure 20 metres from the sea, Varigotti is a few minutes away. To get to know the starting point, read our guide to Varigotti.
