Testico: Natural Landscape and Rural Heritage

Testico is shaped by its natural and cultural heritage: the town lies within the Testata Alte Valli Merula e Lerrone protected area, and its historical landmarks range from Baroque churches to rural crafts. When choosing a place to stay, you can focus on different interests—from landscapes and biodiversity to architectural history and traditional work.

Landscape in the protected area

The protected area’s range of species includes orchids, palaeo-Mediterranean species and numerous endemic species. It also includes species protected under international directives or agreements, as well as habitats and species of priority interest. Nature in Testico can therefore be described in terms of more than individual plants: the protection of habitats and the diversity of species are also central to this theme.

The vegetation varies depending on the slope’s orientation. The south-facing slopes have extensive grasslands created through human use and increasingly being reclaimed by woody vegetation. The north-facing slopes are more heavily wooded. Different landscape forms thus sit side by side within the same protected area: grasslands shaped by human use and more heavily wooded slopes. Those who want to focus on nature will find both biodiversity and the different character of the slopes to explore here.

Churches and rural history

The parish church, Chiesa dei Santi Pietro e Paolo, was rebuilt in the Baroque style in the 17th century. In Ginestro, the Chiesa di San Bernardo di Testico dates from the 18th century; its façade has a restrained Baroque design. The two churches offer a concrete comparison: the parish church highlights its 17th-century reconstruction and Baroque style, while San Bernardo reflects the 18th century and its understated façade.

In 2017, Testico was selected as the location for the Museo rurale degli antichi mestieri. The museum’s name refers to rural occupations, adding another cultural focus alongside the churches. Ginestro is also home to an old water-powered oil mill dating from the 17th century. It adds a specific connection to olive-oil production and rural work to the area’s architectural history.

Another landmark is the Cappella di San Giovanni in Caselle-Roggio, whose exterior structural restoration has been completed. By contrast, the Cappella della Madonna dei Maruggi e dei Zerboni in Ginestro is not open at all times. Bear this restriction in mind when planning a visit to the chapel.

Routes and getting there

Rural paths in Testico are used by hikers and mountain bikers. Hiking and mountain biking thus add an active focus alongside the cultural and historical themes. The SP 13 di Val Merula provides access to the town. The road runs between Andora, Stellanello, Testico and Passo del Cesio, providing a named road connection to help you find your way. The combination of nature, historic buildings and rural history lets you choose Testico based on the themes that matter to you during your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Rialto, Castelvecchio Di Rocca Barbena, Carcare, Cosseria, Alassio, Cisano Sul Neva, Varigotti, San Bartolomeo

Go to the main travel overview: Savona.