FROM THE ALPS TO THE SEA
LIMONE | VENTIMIGLIA (Via Pigna)
112 Km Suitable for experienced cyclists Elevation Gain: + 2.744 m - Total Descent: 3.556 m - Maximum Altitude Reached: 2.250 m
This route, which winds its way from the beautiful mountains of Limone to the shores of the Ligurian Sea is a unique itinerary perfect for those wishing to enjoy both Alpine and marine climates in the space of a few hours, while taking in amazing natural environments and historical villages.
After having completed the first leg shared with itinerary 2, as far as the Bassa di Sanson, the route continues on the unsealed road through the high mountains, climbing towards Testa della Nava. Soon after, it passes below Cima Marta (with extensive underground fortifications). At the Sella d’Agnair pass, after Colle Bertrand and Monteg Grai, the road descends towards Colla della Melosa, where the Allavena mountain hut is located. From here on, the route to the sea continues on tarmac roads with little traffic. It soon reaches Colla di Langan, from where the road descends steeply with hairpin bends to the ancient Ligurian village of Pigna, dating from Roman times.
From Pigna the road continues to the valley floor, passing the picturesque medieval village of Dolceacqua before finally reaching Ventimiglia. After reaching the coast, you can continue on the “Ciclabile Mare” coastal cycle route from Ospedaletti towards Sanremo, as far as San Lorenzo al Mare. Alternatively, if you have any energy left, you can reach Sanremo from Colla di Langan on the Monteceppo road via Bajardo (see itinerary 3). Itineraries 3 and 4 – for the return journey, you can take the train from Ventimiglia to Limone-Cuneo, to which you can also connect from Sanremo. Another option is offered by the inter-regional trains to Turin via Savona and Ceva, on which passengers heading to Cuneo or Limone must change at Fossano. Alternatively, you can book the return journey by minibus on www.cuneoalps.it
