Ruta: Hiking Trails and Views

Ruta is the starting point for various hiking destinations. One route leads from here towards Portofino; the hiking route to San Fruttuoso and the Via Monti to Portofino Vetta are also connected with Ruta. A path to Bocche is described in terms of Crocetta and its vegetation. To help you choose, focus above all on the destination, distance and scenery. First consider which destination name fits your plans; then you can better assess the starting point, length and surroundings.

Distinguishing Hiking Trails by Destination and Distance

The route from Ruta to Portofino starts at Valico di Ruta: the starting point is at the western end of the state road tunnel, on the side facing Camogli. The route is the final stage of the Via del Mare, also called the Via del Sale. The specific starting point and the route’s place within this named trail are therefore useful reference points for your planning. This makes it possible to distinguish the Portofino route from the hike to San Fruttuoso.

The hiking route from Ruta to San Fruttuoso is 4.6 km long—the stated distance is for a one-way trip. The kilometre figure therefore refers to the route in one direction and does not automatically cover a full round trip. Journey times and trail conditions may change; check current conditions before setting out. The two destinations are described using different details: for Portofino, the starting point at Valico di Ruta is specified; for San Fruttuoso, the one-way distance is given.

Via Monti and Finding Your Way at Portofino Vetta

The Via Monti leads from Ruta to Portofino Vetta and is an alternative route that is less direct and less strenuous. About 300 metres from Ruta, the Via Monti meets the path towards San Rocco. At Portofino Vetta, it runs below the small church near the car park. These points help you follow the Via Monti: its named destination, Portofino Vetta, differs from that of the route towards Portofino. When choosing between the trails, you can therefore consider the destination first, followed by the relevant distance or navigation details.

Woodland, Greenery and Views

The path to Bocche passes through mixed low woodland of hop-hornbeams and chestnut trees and reaches Crocetta, which is surrounded by maritime pines. The trees and destination together shape the description of this path. Another section of trail runs through a flat area surrounded by greenery; from there, panoramic views extend over Camogli as far as the car park area. The landscape features highlighted thus differ: the path to Bocche is associated with woodland and Crocetta, while the other section is characterised by a green, flat area and views of Camogli.

Church and Coastal Views

The Millenniums Church, “La Millenaria,” is a Romanesque rural church. It served the local community on the old road from Bana. From the churchyard, there are views of the Gulf of Genoa and the profile of Monte di Portofino. Its architectural style, historical function and setting offer different ways to appreciate the church and its surroundings: its Romanesque architecture, its role as a rural church, and the panorama of the gulf and mountain profile.

Discover more destinations: Casanova, Montoggio, Lavagna, Comeglio, Prati, Savignone, Valbrevenna, Mele

Return to the main travel overview: Genoa.