This excursion, which offers impressive views, can be undertaken by car along a
small motor road (in yellow on the map), which describes a ring, or on foot
following one of the several paths. Get to Borzonasca (from the town of
Chiavari) and from there to Sopralacroce, then follow indications for Rifugio
Monte Aiona (Refuge of Mount Aiona), best known as 'Rifugio Pratomollo'. The
road climbs up steep slopes and meadows with breathtaking outlooks toward the
sea. 'Pratomollo' means soft, or better damp meadow and this name derives from
the fact that the spot was once a shallow lake and still turns into a pool in
case of abundant rains. The Rifugio Monte Aiona (in the picture) provides restaurant
service and accommodations (open only in summer; cuisine is delicious, booking
is recommended, tel 0185/340103).
From there, take a walk up to Spingarda Pass, where you cross
Alta Via dei Monti Liguri
('High Route of Ligurian Mountains', an important trekking trail), and enjoy
the magnificent beech wood. Or climb to the top of Mount Aiona, one of the
highest peaks in Aveto Valley.
On the way back, by car, take a left on the crossroad, towards Giacopiane Lake
and proceed through the wood. When the lake is in sight, you must leave the car
and go on foot, through a luxuriant and wild country. The lake is an artificial
basin, for a hydroelectric plant, in an alpine environment.
Then the motor road goes down to Perlizzi and reaches the main road to
Borzonasca.
 Giacopiane Lake |
 Pian Sapeio Lake |
