IN THE PROVINCE OF GENOA

VAL CICHERO

A natural amphitheater at the foot of Mount Ramaceto.
The Dolomites are not far.

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The Valley

An Untouched Oasis

Val Cichero, also known as Val Cicana from the stream that flows through it (in Ligurian vallรข de Cichรช and vallรข da Cicaรฑa respectively), extends for about 7 km at the foot of the majestic Mount Ramaceto (1345 m), in the municipality of San Colombano Certenoli, nestled between Val Fontanabuona to the west and Sturla Valley to the east.

The Cicana stream originates from Ramaceto, flowing through dense forests and plateaus, merging into the Sturla stream at Terrarossa. Together they give life to the Entella river near Carasco. The valley, characterized by a steep and forested lower part and a pasture-rich upper part, is today visited both by trekking lovers and kayak enthusiasts who navigate its rapids.

In addition to the breeding of the native Cabannina cattle, the valley boasts ancient origins: in 2019, a small archaeological site was inaugurated near a stone dating back to the Neolithic period, testifying to prehistoric settlements at the foot of the mountain.

1,345m Ramaceto Altitude
20km From the Sea (Lavagna)
100% Nature & Relax
Cabannina cows grazing in Val Cichero

The Cabannina Breed

Symbol of Ligurian biodiversity, saved from extinction right in these valleys.

Hiking

Trails and Adventure

Mount Ramaceto offers different routes for every hiker, between rocky panoramas overlooking the sea and quiet beech forests.

E - Hiking

Villagrande Loop

โฑ๏ธ 5.30 - 6.30 h | ๐Ÿ“ˆ +850m

The classic route starting from the square of Villagrande di Cichero. It climbs steeply towards Passo del Dente, bypassing rocky spurs, until it reaches the beautiful Chapel on the ridge of Ramaceto, from which the view extends all the way to Corsica.

Scenic Ridge
E - Hiking

Ventarola Loop

โฑ๏ธ 4.30 - 5.30 h | ๐Ÿ“ˆ +600m

Starting from the historic rural hamlet of Ventarola, an ancient commercial hub. The path winds through majestic beech forests on the northern slope within the Aveto Park, offering a cooler and shaded climb during the hot months.

Beech Forests Historic Village
EE - Expert Hikers

Alta Via dei Monti Liguri

โฑ๏ธ Full Stage | ๐Ÿ“ˆ Variable

Val Cichero and Mount Ramaceto host one of the most fascinating stages of the great Ligurian crossing. Walking on the ridge on the southern rocky side, you experience the sensation of flying between land, sky, and sea.

Alta Via Exposed
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Hiking tip:

The climb from the south slope (Villagrande) is highly exposed to the sun. In the summer months, we recommend starting early in the morning, bringing plenty of water, and wearing hiking boots due to the loose debris.

Hospitality & Flavors

Where to Eat and Sleep

Savor the home-cooked cuisine of the mountain tradition and relax in the green valley.

Trattoria

Trattoria Noemi

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Celesia, San Colombano Certenoli

Open since 1976, it is a reference point for those seeking authentic flavors. Famous for homemade pansoti with walnut sauce, ravioli with "tocco" sauce, stockfish, and game.

Call: +39 331 2645132
Trattoria / Bar

Trattoria Colomba

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Celesia (opposite the Post Office)

Rustic and welcoming atmosphere that also serves as a bar and small valley grocery store. It offers homemade Ligurian dishes prepared with genuine ingredients.

Call: +39 339 5495390
ACLI Club

Circolo ACLI Ramaceto

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Larvego, Val Cichero

A historic and informal meeting point, perfect for hikers returning from Ramaceto to enjoy a glass of wine and taste local platters.

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Agriturismo

Agriturismo Ape Bianca

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Pregi, Val Cichero

The small Agriturismo Ape Bianca offers dining options at any time in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Indoor dining rooms and a large outdoor space are available.

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Butcher & Farming

Macelleria Casella

๐Ÿ“ Via Villagrande 5, Cichero

Farming, breeding, and sale of high-quality local beef, pork, goat, and sheep meat.

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Agriturismo

Agriturismo Valle Chiappella

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Celesia, Val Cichero

Offers double rooms and a studio apartment with a kitchenette. It provides the experience of farm life, tasting locally produced cheeses, vegetables, and honey.

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Eco B&B

B&B Pane e Rose

๐Ÿ“ Immersed in the green valley

A property oriented towards environmental sustainability and well-being. Surrounded by woods, ideal for stays characterized by silence and harmony with nature.

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Tourist Rental

NatureHouse Custu Giancu

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Celesia, Val Cichero

Enchanting wood and stone house converted from an ancient rustic building. It offers absolute relaxation, a beautiful outdoor pool, an equipped garden, and a magnificent view of the peaks.

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Holiday Home

Ca' Liggia

๐Ÿ“ Val Cichero

Cozy rustic-style apartment featuring two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a beautiful panoramic terrace with a barbecue for outdoor dining.

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Tourist Rental

Stone House (700m)

๐Ÿ“ Loc. Villagrande, Val Cichero

Characteristic independent rural accommodation surrounded by meadows and chestnut woods. The ideal accommodation to unplug and explore the trails of Mount Ramaceto.

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Tourist Rental

Casa Relax

๐Ÿ“ Val Cichero | CITRA: 010053-LT-0003

Beautiful independent villa of 100 sqm located at 750 meters above sea level. Equipped with a large flat outdoor space of 800 sqm, surrounded by quiet meadows and woods.

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1943-1945

Base of the Cichero Brigade

Historical Memory

The Heart of the Resistance

Val Cichero is not only beautiful nature, but also a sacred place for the memory of the Italian Liberation. Here, between Ramaceto and the dense forests, the famous Garibaldi "Cichero" Division was born and formed.

Since November 1943, the secluded character of the valley prompted the first groups formed in the Chiavari hills to move their operational base here, finding refuge in the so-called "cason" (traditional stone cottages, still partially visible). Under the leadership of commander Aldo Gastaldi, "Bisagno", the partisan group drew up the famous "Cichero Code", an ethical code based on brotherhood and absolute respect for the local population.

The valley paid a very high price for this connection: in July 1944, during a violent Nazi-Fascist roundup, the village of Cichero was set on fire and seven partisans were shot in Gnorecco. Today a monument and a historical path commemorate the sacrifice of this valley.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Information

Val Cichero is located in the inland area of Tigullio, in the Province of Genoa, within the municipality of San Colombano Certenoli. It is about 20 km from Lavagna and Chiavari and can be reached by going up the road from Carasco.

Exit at the Lavagna highway toll booth (A12), follow directions for Carasco and then for Val Cicana / Cichero. The road goes up the valley passing through the hamlets of Celesia until reaching Villagrande di Cichero.

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are perfect for trekking thanks to mild temperatures and the warm colors of the Ligurian vegetation. Summer is great for seeking cool air compared to the hot Ligurian coast, while in winter Mount Ramaceto is sometimes covered with a suggestive blanket of snow.

Among the products of excellence are cheeses made from the milk of the Cabannina cow, porcini mushrooms harvested in local woods, chestnuts used to prepare traditional flours and desserts, and the delicious "carne de Cichรจ in sa ciappa" (meat cooked on the traditional slate slab).

Contact

Plan Your Visit

Do you need information about routes, events, or reservations in local trattorias? The Val Cichero Association is happy to help you discover the valley.

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