Granfondo of the Lombards Trail

The tour is a loop, so you can start at various points. For parking, while specific parking for 'Roccolo' isn't detailed, Santa Margherita Ligure offers several parking options. Given the trail's location near Parco Valle del Lanza, look for parking facilities in nearby towns or designated trailheads that provide access to the park.

You can expect a diverse terrain on this route. It features a mix of mostly paved sections, easily accessible paths, and some natural or gravel segments. Some parts might require sure-footedness due to uneven ground, especially given the hilly nature of the Portofino Promontory area.

The tour is rated as 'moderate' difficulty. While it's not an extreme challenge, it's best suited for those with good fitness due to its length of over 10 km and around 150 meters of elevation gain. Beginners might find it challenging, but it's achievable with preparation.

This route offers several points of interest. You'll pass by the fascinating Ruins of the Rodero Customs House, the serene Chapel of Santa Margherita, and the historic Abandoned Valmorea Railway Station. The scenery also includes breathtaking coastal views and lush Mediterranean vegetation.

The region benefits from a mild climate, making spring and autumn ideal for jogging. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural beauty. Summer can be quite warm, so if you go then, an early morning or late afternoon start is recommended.

Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in this region, especially if kept on a leash. However, always be mindful of local regulations, especially when passing through populated areas or protected natural zones. Please ensure your dog is well-behaved and you clean up after them.

No specific permits or entrance fees are typically required to access this jogging route or the general areas of Parco Valle del Lanza. The trails are generally open to the public. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary local regulations or events before your visit.

Yes, this route shares sections with several other official trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Granfondo dei Longobardi, SICAI Ciclo, Helsana Trail Genestrerio gelb 11.1km, PCIR 16 Valle Olona, and Sentiero di Fondovalle, among others. This offers opportunities to explore further if you wish.

Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, we recommend wearing appropriate jogging shoes with good grip. Bring sufficient water, especially on warmer days, as water sources are not explicitly mentioned along the trail. A map or GPS app like komoot is also advisable, even though many trails are well-marked.

While the trail itself might not have direct refreshment stops, starting and ending in Santa Margherita Ligure means you'll have access to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops in town. It's a good idea to carry your own snacks and drinks for the duration of the jog.

Prepare for picturesque scenery! The route offers breathtaking coastal views of the Ligurian Sea and the Gulf of Tigullia. You'll also jog through lush vegetation, including pine and olive groves, and encounter historical elements that add to the charm of the Italian Riviera landscape.