Hiking from Piedmont to Liguria

Welcome to Alba, the capital of the famous wine region of Langhe and the birthplace of the Slow Food culture. Stroll through the historic city center with its cobblestone alleys, elegant squares and inviting wine bars. Alba is known for its truffles, its gastronomic traditions and proximity to some of Italy's most appreciated wine regions. What fewer people know is that Ferrero also comes from here, with confections like Nutella, Kinder eggs and Ferrero-Rocher. It's okay to be a little childish sometimes! Take the opportunity to start the week with a good dinner and a glass of local wine before the hiking adventure begins.

The journey's first hike takes you through some of Italy's most famous vineyards. With views over Langhe's elegant hills, you walk via La Morra and continue through vineyards that produce the legendary Barolo wine. In the small village of Barolo there's time to explore the alleys and perhaps enjoy a glass of wine before the trail continues through forest areas and open landscapes framed by the Alps in the distance. The day ends in Monforte d'Alba, one of the region's most charming wine villages, beautifully situated on a hilltop.

Today's stage begins among the vineyards but the landscape gradually changes as you gain elevation. Hazel groves become increasingly common and you pass the picturesque villages of Roddino and Serravalle. From the viewpoint called "Langhe's balcony" panoramic views over the hills open up. The hike continues up towards Alta Langa, where Bossolasco awaits. The village is known as the village of roses thanks to its flower-adorned streets and its beautiful location high up on the mountain ridge.

You follow the mountain ridges through a landscape characterized by pastures, small farms and historic stone houses. Along the way you pass Murazzano, known for its beloved sheep cheese. The views towards the snow-capped Maritime Alps become increasingly impressive. On clear days you can even glimpse the sea far away. To think that you'll soon reach it on foot! After the hike, a transfer awaits to Millesimo, whose well-preserved medieval city center is counted among Italy's most beautiful small towns.

After a short transfer to Melogno pass, the hike begins along the classic trail Alta Via dei Monti Liguri, which follows the entire spine of Liguria and divides the coast from the interior. The path winds through magnificent beech forests and over open mountain ridges. From Monte Carmo, extensive views open up where the Mediterranean suddenly feels tangibly close. The desire to swim must wait a little longer as today's destination is the small mountain village of Bardineto, surrounded by forested heights and known for its delicious mushrooms.

Now awaits one of the journey's most spectacular hiking days. You follow parts of the Ligurian long-distance trail Sentiero Liguria with views over mountains, coast and islands. The path follows the mountain ridges before gradually leading down towards the sea. Once you arrive in Albenga, founded by the Romans, the Mediterranean awaits right outside the door. Perhaps a dip beckons before the evening ends with fresh fish and Italian atmosphere along the waterfront promenade.

The last hiking day offers classic Riviera views and a magnificent finale. You follow the sea before the trail climbs up towards Alta Via Baia del Sole. Fragrant macchia, terraced cultivations and views over the turquoise sea accompany you during the day. After the descent to the elegant coastal town of Alassio, the journey continues by train along the coast to Sanremo. Here, in the famous flower city with its Swedish connection (Alfred Nobel), you get a perfect conclusion to the week.

After breakfast it's time to bid farewell to Italy and a varied week filled with wine fields, mountain views, medieval villages and coastal paths. For those who want to stay a little longer, Sanremo is perfect for a few extra days by the sea. From here you can also easily make excursions by train to the lemon city of Menton, fashionable Monaco and the small Riviera towns in between.