Alpi Liguri Mountains

The Alpi Liguri, or Ligurian Alps, are the westernmost section of the Alps in northwest Italy forming the mountainous divide between inland Piedmont and the Ligurian coast. The range contains peaks exceeding 2,000 metres and marks the transition from alpine to Mediterranean environments.

The area offers alpine ridges, wooded slopes and high summits such as Monte Saccarello, used by hikers and mountaineers for ridge routes and panoramic viewpoints. Trails run along the crest and connect mountain passes that have traditionally linked coastal Liguria with the Piedmont hinterland.

Historically these mountains have formed administrative and natural borders between regions and have been traversed by local pastoral routes and wartime military roads; modern uses focus on hiking, local agriculture and conservation.

Geographically the range lies in northwest Italy on the border area between Liguria and Piedmont, extending from the coastal passes inland along the western Alps. The terrain drops steeply towards the Ligurian Sea on the southern slopes and transitions to higher alpine plateaus to the north.

• Alpine-to-coast transition: The Ligurian Alps form the maritime-to-inland section of the western Alps and include peaks above 2,000 metres, with alpine terrain changing quickly to Mediterranean coastlines.

What to See#

• Monte Saccarello: The highest summit of the range, rising to 2,201 metres and marking the inland border between Liguria and neighbouring regions; a focal point for long-distance ridge walks.

Access from Piedmont and Liguria: regional roads and rail link towns at the base of the range. Major approach towns include Imperia and Savona on the coast, with inland connections served by local buses and regional roads.

• If hiking the Ligurian Alps, plan routes that descend toward coastal towns-views that shift from upland ridges to Mediterranean are dramatic.
• Use regional trail maps (CAI maps in Italy) and seek local rifugio (mountain hut) options for multi-day routes.
• Spring and early summer offer alpine flowers before coastal heat sets in.