マイッサーナの峠・トップ20

beautiful, quiet pass with picnic area

Refreshingly cold fountain water and a small shrine in homage to Marco Pantani; definitely worth a detour

Situated at 956 meters between the Vara and Aveto Valleys, the Bocco Pass is one of the historic passes of the Ligurian Apennines, used since ancient times as a connection between the Tyrrhenian coast and the Po Valley hinterland. Already in Roman times, it was part of a secondary transit network, but it was especially in the Middle Ages and modern times that the pass assumed a central role in local traffic: a route for merchants, shepherds, and pilgrims, it connected Chiavari and the Riviera with Varese Ligure and the Emilian plains. Traces of the ancient paving are still visible today in the surrounding woods. During the Second World War, the area served as a refuge for partisan groups, thanks to its secluded location and dense forest cover. Today, the pass is a destination for cyclists and hikers, immersed in an unspoiled mountain landscape of beech and fir forests and highland meadows, at the gateway to the Aveto Regional Natural Park.

possible excursions both on foot and by bike

89 steps that are worth it if you have a clear view. Old ruins with great impressions

On the Guaitarola pass, on the slopes of the homonymous mountain, a small fountain seems to be dedicated to those who pedal: it recalls the passage from here of the 2006 Giro d'Italia, in a stage between Livorno and Sestri Levante.

Between Riva Trigoso and Carrodano it is one of the most evocative and most beautiful stretches of the "Aurelia" to cycle around. The asphalt is a carpet, the unmissable views and the sinuous but gentle curves. It's true, in summer there are many motorcycles and you have to pay attention to the "racers", but most of them are tourist motorcycles and they don't give too much trouble.

It's even better in real life! ride to believe.