Casella - Monte Maggio - Crocefieschi Trail

The trail can be started from either Casella or Crocefieschi. Casella is easily accessible, and you can often find parking in the village. Crocefieschi also offers parking options, particularly near the village center.

The starting point in Casella is conveniently accessible via the historic Ferrovia Genova Casella, making it a great option for those using public transportation.

The trail is generally classified as 'moderate'. Starting from Casella, it's considered 'Tourist/Excursionist' (T/E), while from Crocefieschi, it's 'Excursionist' (E). While some sections, especially near Monte Maggio, can be steeper, it's manageable for most hikers with basic experience. We recommend wearing appropriate trekking shoes.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll walk through meadows and cultivated fields, then enter beautiful chestnut groves and denser wooded areas. As you ascend towards Monte Maggio, the path becomes steeper with a notable change in rock formations from marly flysch to conglomerates. The path is marked by two empty yellow rhombuses.

You'll experience diverse landscapes, from charming small woods and cultivated fields to panoramic views. A significant highlight is the pass above Costa village, offering sweeping vistas of Monte Maggio and the Scrivia Valley. On clear days, you might even glimpse the Ligurian Sea and Monte Alpesisa. The ancient village of Crocefieschi, with its 16th and 17th-century palaces, also adds a cultural dimension.

Yes, there are several. You'll pass a chapel dedicated to San Rocco. The panoramic views from the pass above Costa village are spectacular. The trail also leads to the Chapel of Monte Maggio and ends in the historic Crocefieschi Village, known for its ancient origins and Fieschi family palaces.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as parts of it are within the Parco Naturale Regionale dell'Antola, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you follow any specific park regulations regarding pets.

The trail is enjoyable in spring, summer, and autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer is also pleasant, especially in the wooded sections. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potentially colder conditions and snow at higher elevations.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

As the trail passes through the Parco Naturale Regionale dell'Antola, hikers should adhere to general park rules. This includes staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife or plants, taking all trash with you, and keeping dogs on a leash. There are no entrance fees for the park itself.

Yes, the route covers 100% of the 'Casella - Monte Maggio - Crocefieschi' official trail and also passes through sections of the 'Montemaggio - Martellona' and 'Savignone - Monte Maggio' trails.

Starting from Casella involves an elevation gain of approximately 570 meters, offering a more challenging ascent. If you prefer a less strenuous climb, starting from Crocefieschi involves about 250 meters of elevation gain. Both offer unique perspectives of the route.