Ghost Town Trail to Rovaiolo Vecchio

The trail commonly starts from the fascinating Ghost Town of Rovaiolo Vecchio. This abandoned village offers a unique historical experience right at the beginning of your hike.

This is considered a difficult hike. It requires very good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy shoes due to its steep and continuous ascent, often referred to as the "Vertical del Lesima." While not technically challenging, it is physically demanding.

You'll experience diverse terrain, starting with well-marked paths through beautiful chestnut and beech forests. As you ascend, these give way to steep grassy pastures. Some sections may be slippery, and you might encounter small, easy rock walls, with a couple of meters equipped with a fixed rope.

Key highlights include the unique Ghost Town of Rovaiolo Vecchio at the start. As you climb, you'll get a View of the Val Trebbia and Boreca, culminating in spectacular panoramic vistas from Monte Lesima and the ENAV radar at the summit.

While there are no explicit restrictions, the trail's difficult rating, significant elevation gain, and potentially slippery sections mean it's best suited for very fit and experienced dogs. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially in forested areas and near pastures.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is more stable and the trails are clear of snow. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Always check weather conditions before you go, as the summit can be exposed.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Loop tour towards Mount Lesima and the ghost town of Rovaiolo.

Yes, approximately 41% of this route overlaps with sections of Il Sentiero del paese Fantasma, offering a chance to experience parts of that official trail as well.

This specific loop is quite challenging. If you're looking for a shorter or easier experience, you might consider exploring just the Ghost Town of Rovaiolo Vecchio area or seeking out other, less strenuous trails in the broader Val Trebbia region. This particular route is not recommended for beginners.

From the summit of Monte Lesima, you are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree vistas. On clear days, these can stretch from the Po Valley to the Western Alps and across the Ligurian Apennines, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys like Val Boreca and Val Trebbia.

There are no reliable water sources directly on the trail. It is essential to carry sufficient water for the entire duration of this challenging hike, especially given its length and elevation gain.