Discover Rocchetta Di Vara

If you are looking for a hotel in Rocchetta Di Vara, you can first sort your travel interests into categories: history, trails, river activities and local produce each offer a different focus. The details below can help you decide whether heritage, outdoor activities, scenery or local traditions matter most for your stay.

Historical Heritage from Different Periods

The parish of Rocchetta Vara dates back to 1133. The parish church of Santa Giustina houses a statue depicting Saint Justina, created in the 17th century. In Stadomelli, the original layout of the parish church of San Giovanni Battista dates back to around the year 1000. The abbey fortress of Rocchetta once guarded the historic road from Pontremoli to Brugnato; only a few traces of it remain. In Beverone, the Oratorio di Sant’Andrea, built around 1680, stands at the entrance to the village. Further back in time is the Pianaccia di Suvero archaeological site, which attests to human presence since the Middle Paleolithic. Together, these places and historical remains offer different starting points for a stay focused on history.

Trails and Outdoor Activities

The Alta Via dei Monti Liguri is a 440-kilometre route running along the ridgelines from Ventimiglia to Ceparana. It can be used year-round on foot, by bicycle or by mountain bike. Two stages and connecting trails into the valley pass through the Rocchetta di Vara area. Check current trail conditions before setting out. Another option is the “Da Rocchetta di Vara a Beverone” walk, which follows unpaved paths through chestnut groves and mixed woodland. The route was last explored in November 2017, so check current trail conditions before setting out.

On the way from Rocchetta di Vara to Beverone, a turn-off leads to a large cross on Monte Nero, at an elevation of 715 metres. From there, you can see the surrounding mountains and the sea. Hang gliders take off from the ridge of Monte Madronale; check the take-off conditions and local permits before participating. This lets you distinguish between a ridge route suitable for several ways of getting around, a walk through woodland and chestnut groves, and a hang-gliding launch site.

River, Traditions and Local Produce

Near Stadomelli, the Ramello suspension bridge crosses the Vara River. River swimming is possible in Ramello in the designated area on the Vara; observe local seasonal conditions. When planning, note that these two options may appeal to different interests: crossing the river and swimming in it are not the same activity.

At the Suvero Carnival, the traditional masks are divided into “Belli” and “Brutti.” The two groups go from house to house, accompanied by traditional music, and receive wine and other gifts. Farms in the Rocchetta di Vara area sell local products directly to visitors: grain and chestnut flour, honey, dried mushrooms, extra virgin olive oil, preserves, saffron, aromatic herbs, syrups and cheese. The range available at individual farms may vary.

Getting There by Car

To reach Rocchetta di Vara by car, take the Brugnato exit on the A12 motorway. From there, head towards Brugnato and continue to Rocchetta. As road conditions and signs may change, check them before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Carro, San Bernardino, Valeriano Lunense, Carrodano, Calice Al Cornoviglio, Ortonovo, Portovenere, Lerici

For the broader travel overview: La Spezia.