Trekking Antiche Vie del Sale: loop trail Zuccarello - Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena - Erli

One of the most fascinating itineraries of the Savona hinterland, discovering the most authentic Liguria: that of stone villages, olive groves and ancient trade routes that for centuries connected the sea to Piedmont.

Walking along a splendid medieval mule track that connects Zuccarello and Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena, we will cross landscapes rich in history and nature, following a stretch of the ancient Vie del Sale. We will discover together the figure of Ilaria del Carretto, the noblewoman made immortal by the famous funeral monument sculpted by Jacopo della Quercia and preserved in the Cathedral of Lucca.

Our route begins in the historic center of Zuccarello, characterized by old stone houses, long porticoes and the striking single-arch bridge over the Neva River. After crossing the village, we will take the ancient mule track that leads to the remains of Zuccarello Castle and continues through olive groves, cultivated belts and wooded stretches until we reach Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena.

The village already appears from afar, perched on a rocky spur dominated by its medieval castle. Considered one of the most scenic villages in Liguria, it is often referred to as a “stone flower”: in fact, the houses huddle around the fortress like the petals of a corolla.

We are in the land of the Marchesi Del Carretto, one of the most important Italian feudal families, capable for centuries of contending for control of the territory with the Savoy and the Republic of Genoa. The castle of Castelvecchio was one of the symbols of their power, until the serious damage suffered in 1672 during the clashes between Genoa and the Savoy, in which the famous mercenary Bastian Contrario also participated.

The trek then continues to Erli, a small village in the upper Neva Valley surrounded by ancient terraces, olive groves and woods. This area still retains the atmosphere of rural Liguria of the past, made of mule tracks, small hamlets and slow rhythms. Walking along these historic paths we will understand the importance of the Salt Roads, which for centuries represented fundamental commercial and cultural links between the Ligurian coast and the Piedmont hinterland.

Technical Data

• Loop route
• Length: 12 km
• Height difference: 350 m
• Difficulty: suitable for regular walkers

The trail runs along old mule tracks and hiking trails. A short ford is planned: it is recommended to bring a small towel and possibly a spare pair of socks.

What to bring

• Water (at least 1 liter)
• Packed lunch
• Sunscreen
• Bandana or hat
• Layered technical clothing
• Hiking boots
• Hiking poles (for those who are used to using them)
• Personal first aid
• towel and spare socks for the small ford to cross.

Gathering: 10 a.m. at the entrance gate of Zuccarello in front of the Ilaria del Carretto monument, Armando Tornatore Street.

Free event organized by the Ancient Salt Roads Association with the  contribution of the De Mari Foundation.

RESERVATION REQUIRED to the form below