Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5km (round trip)
Completion time: 2-3h
Route Type: Out-and-Back

Details

• Starting Point: In Monterosso, look for the trailhead at the western end of the Il Gigante beach, near Piazza Fegina.
• Along the Way: The path itself is well-marked and maintained, though some sections may be steep and require a bit of effort. Near the summit, you'll find the ruins of the ancient hermitage of Sant'Antonio del Mesco.
• End Point: The pinnacle of the hike is the Punta Mesco viewpoint, where you'll find an abandoned building and be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the Ligurian Sea and the Cinque Terre coastline. From here, you can either return the way you came back to Monterosso or connect it to trail leading to Levanto

Practical Tips

• Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and uneven in places.
• Water and Snacks: There are no facilities or places to purchase food and water along the trail, so be sure to bring enough to stay hydrated and energized.
• Sun Protection: The trail offers limited shade. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke.
• Start early or late in the day: To avoid the midday sun and heat, especially during summer months, it's best to start your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon.