The Bormida Valley is a land rich in hidden treasures, perfect for those seeking unspoiled and little-known nature. Among its wonders, the small lakes of Cravè and Rio Frassino are an ideal destination for relaxing hikes, surrounded by the majesty of the Barbottina Forest and beautiful columnar beech trees. These bodies of water, surrounded by cool, shady surroundings, offer the perfect refuge from the summer heat of the Ligurian coast, with temperatures that can differ by nearly 10 degrees from the coast.
Unspoiled nature to be discovered
The lakes of Rio Frassino and Cravè are still little known, which helps to preserve their wild and unspoiled nature. This makes them perfect places for those who want to disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle and completely immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Surrounded by majestic beech trees, these lakes are a real gem for hiking enthusiasts, but also for those looking for a place to rest and refresh themselves during a walk.
An accessible route for all
The route to the ponds is suitable for everyone, from families looking for a relaxing walk to sportsmen looking for a trail immersed in nature. The walk starts from the former State Road 490 of the Melogno Pass: just past Località Franchella, follow the “H” trail marker that descends to the right. From here, the trail follows the course of the Rio Frassino and crosses several streams, including the Rio Tana, the Rio Urucotti-Ariburni, and finally the Rio Pisciarotta, where a little further up you can observe the confluence of the streams in the Rio Frassino.
Continuing immersed in the beech forest, you will cross a short stretch of the ancient Via dei Francesi, which you will leave by turning right to continue to Località Cravè. Here, you will be welcomed by the charming little lakes carved into the rocks by the course of the Rio Frassino, perfect for a relaxing break in a natural and unspoiled environment.
An itinerary for all seasons
The route is about 3.2 kilometers with an elevation gain of 200 meters, making it accessible to anyone with a minimum of fitness. The walking time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but the relaxing environment invites you to take your time to explore the surroundings.
The recommended time for this hike is from March to November, but the coolness of the area makes it especially pleasant on hot summer days, when the temperature in the forest can be significantly lower than on the coast .
Getting there
By car from Bardineto: If you are staying at our vacation home in Bardineto, head toward the Colle del Melognoperpending Provincial Road 52 in the direction of Calizzano. After about a 15-minute drive, you will reach the junction with former State Road 490. From here, continue to the right in the direction of Colle del Melogno. Past the village of Franchella, you will find the beginning of the path to the small lakes.
By car from Millesimo/Calizzano: If arriving from Millesimo or Calizzano, follow Provincial Road 51 to Calizzano. From Calizzano, continue along the former State Road 490 in the direction of Colle del Melogno. After about 8 km, past the village of Franchella, park your car in the clearing located near Km 24 of the road. From here, start the path that will take you to the small lakes.
By car from the Riviera: From the Finale Ligure highway exit, follow the signs for Calizzano / Colle del Melogno. After driving about 24 km along the highway, you will find a large parking area in a clearing near Km 24. Here begins the trail that will take you to the Laghetti di Cravè.
By train and bus: If traveling by train, get off at Finale Ligure train station. From there, take the bus to Colle del Melogno / Calizzano and get off shortly after Km 24 of the former State Road 490. Continue on foot along the marked trail to reach the small lakes.
Discovering the Beech Fò Grossu
During the hike, another not-to-be-missed stop is Faggio Fò Grossu, an imposing specimen of a 100-year-old beech, cataloged as a monumental tree and under special protection. This beech, 37 meters tall and with a circumference of 360 cm, is a symbol of the Barbottina Forest and a true natural monument .
Practical advice
- Best period: from March to November.
- Access: the area is easily accessible both by car and public transportation.
- Climate: cool even on the hottest summer days, with a difference of about 10 degrees from the coast.
- Equipment: wear shoes suitable for hiking trails, and don’t forget to bring water with you, although you may find some drinking water springs along the way, such as the Cantugnè Spring, located near the highway .
A piece of paradise for a relaxing day
The Laghetti di Cravè are an ideal destination for those who want to spend a day immersed in nature, away from the noise of the city. Between streams gushing from mountain slopes and shady forests, these bodies of water are also perfect for a refreshing swim during the summer.
These places are a natural retreat where you can relax and admire the unspoiled beauty of the Bormida Valley, surrounded by silence and greenery. Don’t miss the chance to have a unique experience in a place that is still little known but of rare beauty.
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