STAGE 3: Colla Sgora – Colle Scarassan (11.7 km)(Stage 3 of section 1 on the network guide www.altaviainfoh24.com)

The 3rd stage of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri is a trek on the border between Italy and France, walking between the Nervia Valley and the Parc National du Mercantour.

The first part of the trail leads from Colla Sgora to Testa d’Alpe in 4 km, gaining elevation along the ridge in an open and scenic section. Here one’s gaze overlooks the Roja and Nervia valleys, and just a few steps away is the highest point of the stage (1511 meters).

Thick coniferous forests greet walkers for the rest of the route, which proceeds mostly downhill or with no elevation gain, overhanging the Margheria dei Boschi area and reaching first Colla Pegairole and finally Colle Scarassan.

Length: 12 km
Elevation gain: 560 m
Downhill elevation gain: 380 m
Highest point: 1511 m
Lowest point: 1083 m
Type of surface: dirt road

Municipality of departure: Rocchetta Nervina
Starting location: Colla Sgora
Municipality of arrival: Pigna
Finish location: Scarassan Hill

Recommended period: all year round

TheAlta Via dei Monti Liguri is a “border” route, separating the Mediterranean coast from the wild hinterland, between sea and sky, Alps and Apennines. Like a green highway it traverses all of Liguria, totaling 440 km along sunny ridges, grassy prairies and shady forests.

Those who venture along the Ligurian Mountains High Road on foot can enjoy. viewpoints fascinating, from which the gaze can sweep as far as Corsica, Monviso and Monte Rosa, but also notable is the historical and cultural heritage, among lines of fortifications and splendid hamlets That deserve to be visited.

The red-white-red trail marker with the initials AV identifies the route to be followed all along the trail, which presents no particular difficulty and can be safely tackled throughout the year by average hikers. In addition, the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri is surrounded by a network of trails and mule tracks and crosses all the pass variants, allowing you to break up the route as you please.

Along the 43 stages of the trekking itinerary, there are numerous accommodations belonging to the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri Hospitality Association, where you can sleep, eat, get shelter in case of adverse weather conditions, and modify the stages according to your needs and abilities.

A 24-hour helpline is available at +39 3381629347.

At www.altaviainfoh24.com (to whom credits are due for the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri gpx trail published here) the official trail guide can be purchased.