A hike up Monte Carmo in the Loanese area: from the beech forest to views of the Ligurian Sea
Planning a hike in Western Liguria also means discovering how the inland area can offer mountain scenery just a few kilometres from the coast. Monte Carmo is one of those destinations that allows you to take in both the Alps and the sea in a single day’s walk. Monte Carmo, known locally as ‘u Carmu’, rises to 1,389 metres above sea level, offering a remarkable hiking experience just eight kilometres from the coast. It is situated in the Loanese area, a region that surprises with its ability to encompass such diverse landscapes.The route: from the Giogo di Toirano to the summit of Carmo
The hike to Monte Carmo is a circular route that starts at the Giogo di Toirano and winds its way through a variety of natural environments. It follows a section of the Alta Via dei Monti Liguri, a trail that crosses the entire region. The trail initially passes through the Bardineto beech forest, a wooded area that offers shelter and cool respite in summer. As you climb, the landscape opens up, revealing more alpine views. The distinctive feature of this trek is precisely the variety of its environments: the route takes you from woodland to stretches of Mediterranean scrub, where you’ll also encounter some endemic species of the local flora.Views and preparations for the hike
Once you reach the summit of Monte Carmo, if the weather is clear, the view stretches far and wide. From here, you can admire the entire Alpine range, the vast Ligurian Sea and, on particularly clear days, even Corsica. It is a vantage point that highlights the proximity between the mountains and the sea. The trail surface is varied, typical of a mountain hiking route, with sections that may be uneven. For this reason, the hike is recommended for those accustomed to walking on uneven terrain. Despite its proximity to the sea, this is a mountainous environment that requires adequate preparation. To tackle the trek to Monte Carmo, technical layered clothing is essential, allowing you to adapt to the temperature changes that can occur between the wooded areas and the exposed summit. Sturdy hiking boots suitable for uneven terrain are essential. It is advisable to carry a bandana, a windproof jacket, sun cream to protect against the sun’s rays at altitude, and a small personal first-aid kit in your rucksack, in addition to any regular medication.Davide’s tip: In the height of summer, even though the higher altitude of Monte Carmo offers a cooler climate than the coast, do not underestimate the sun’s intensity at the summit and on open stretches. Set off with plenty of water and always carry a hat or bandana and sun cream with you. Dressing in layers is essential: even if it’s hot when you set off, the wind can be strong at higher altitudes and a windproof jacket will come in handy. Always check the specific mountain weather forecast before setting off.
Foto di Christoph Hanssen su Pexels
