The Alta Via around Genoa: Punta Martin

This stage of the Alta Via is a pleasant walk also suitable for families with children.You can walk the entire stage arriving as far as Passo del Turchino and then return along the same route (about 23 km) or you can halve the route by returning once you arrive at Colle Gandolfi (936 m), at the junction for the peaks of the Punta Martin (1001 m) and Pennello (996 m) mountains, walking a total of about 11 km.You start from Colla di Praglia following the AVML signs. After passing the barrier, proceed in a southerly direction toward the Turchino Pass. Along the dirt road you cross a vast area of meadows with numerous viewpoints of the Ligurian Sea, its rivieras and the surrounding mountains. On reaching Colle Gandolfi, a stop at the Monte Pennello bivouac (rest area) is recommended. You can then choose to return or continue for about 5 km more in the direction of Passo del Turchino (532 m), a mostly downhill route on the outward journey and uphill on the return.
 
How to get to the starting point of the stage
The locality Colla di Praglia (GE) in the Municipality of Ceranesi can be reached by car from Genoa along SP4.
 
Public transportation
It is not possible to reach Colla di Praglia by public transportation.
 
Where to park
You can park at the barrier on Via M. Pennello, at the start of the trail.Accessibility informationThe trail along the AVML has signage, white stripe and two red ones on either side with AV lettering.

Suggestions (POIs) 
Bivacco M. Pennello - particularly scenic meadow areas - Punta Martin - M. Pennello - Passo del Turchino
 
Safety Info
Be careful on windy days: very windy area. In winter with cold temperatures, possibility of ice. Caution. Always consult the weather forecast before embarking on the walk.
 
Multi-day trail organization 
daily trail
 
Recommended equipment
To tackle this route safely, it is essential to equip yourself properly. The route is in a mountainous environment, so the following are essential:
- hiking shoes and technical layered clothing that can adapt to sudden changes in temperature;
- sufficient food and water reserve for the entire day; 
- charged cell phone and, preferably, a power bank for additional recharges; 
- safety kit a whistle, a survival tarp and a first aid kit;
- for orientation, it is advisable not to rely solely on signage and to have maps of the route available, in paper and digital versions, useful in low visibility or foggy conditions.
 
Directions to follow
loop trail
 
 
Additional tips: for more info see the Genoa municipality website: https://www.visitgenoa.it/it/itinerari-bike-e-trekking
 
Hiking difficulty (1-6): 3
 
Physical preparation (1-6): 3