Balestrino: Valley, Forest and Historic Trails

Balestrino Between Valley and Coast

When looking for a hotel in Balestrino, the town’s location is a key consideration: Balestrino lies in the immediate hinterland of Loano and seven kilometers from the coast; by car, the drive to the coast takes ten minutes. The town is situated in the green valley of the Rio Ponte. Further downstream, it becomes the Barescione stream, a tributary of the Varatella. Olive groves, gardens and vineyards surround Balestrino; opposite lies the unspoiled Erexea Forest, a green lung for the valley. Both the cultivated landscape and the forest shape the view of the valley. This gives you several points of reference when choosing a destination: the coast, the landscape and historic sites along the trails.

From Borghetto S.S., you can reach Balestrino via the Pietra Ligure motorway exit. Head towards Toirano, then follow the provincial road to the junction where you turn left for Balestrino. Free parking is available in Balestrino.

Trails and Excursions

The Sentiero delle Terre Alte is a circular trail in Balestrino that passes the valley’s main historic and archaeological sites. Another trail option leads to Poggio Balestrino: it starts in the town center and winds through the forests. The routes differ in their basic layout: one is a circular trail with historic and archaeological sites, while the other leads from the town center through the forests to a named destination.

For a mountain bike tour, the Villaggio Rocca Barbena–Balestrino–Toirano route offers a distinct point of reference. It starts in Villaggio Rocca Barbena, passes through Balestrino and Toirano, and follows gravel roads and trails. It is described as challenging. Its route, surface and stated level of difficulty give you concrete ways to distinguish this tour from the other trail options mentioned.

Prati di Groa can be reached via an unpaved road starting in Balestrino. If you include this destination, you can factor the described access route into your plans.

Buildings and Local History

The old village of Balestrino was abandoned in the 1950s. Its ruins still include houses, churches and narrow streets. Entry is prohibited for safety reasons; you can view the old village from the outside. This distinction is important when planning your visit: you can see the ruins from the outside, but entering them is not permitted.

The Chiesa di San Giorgio Campestre dates from the early 14th century and is the oldest surviving religious building in Balestrino. The Castello dei Del Carretto was built around the middle of the 16th century; today, it is largely characterized by 19th-century alterations. They therefore represent two distinct historical periods: the church dates to the early 14th century, while the castle’s present character reflects later alterations.

Ponte de la Utra was built in the second half of the 17th century as one of Balestrino’s first public buildings. With its single high span, it connects the mule tracks on both sides of the valley and made travel between cultivated areas easier. Its historical significance differs from that of the church and castle: the bridge’s main purpose was to connect routes and cultivated areas.

The Santuario di Monte Croce has an access ramp for people with disabilities. If this access point is important for your trip, you can take it into account when planning.

In the hamlet of Rocca Curaira, a historical reenactment of the battle is held on various occasions. If you would like to include this event in your travel plans, check in advance whether it is scheduled during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Calizzano, Quiliano, Zuccarello, Bormida, Villalunga, Voze, Cisano Sul Neva, Erli

For the broader travel guide: Savona.