Day 174: Ups And Downs

Monte Lavagnola to near Passo delle Lame

Distance: 35km

I'm lacking the motivation to get up this morning. Rather do stay in my cozy sleeping bag, looking down at the glittering lights of the coastal town Sestri Levante. Eventually, I find the courage to deflate my mattress, which makes it all instantly uncomfortable.

Packing is a breeze and by 06:30 I am on my way. First stop: Barbagelata where Massimiliano told me I would find a fountain. And after a bit of looking around, I find it near the refugio. 

After Barbagelata things go wrong. I take a wrong turn. Looking at the map I should be able to follow the road, than taking a hiking trail back to E1. 

Well, that hiking trail does not exist anymore. I'm furious, somehow my nerves are a bit tense. Backtracking 3km or continuing along the road, adding another 6km? As I hate backtracking, I go for the latter. Surprisingly, I find another hiking trail connecting Priosa with Ventarola. It's a lovely, fast hiking trail. With 4km extra, I make it back to E1, which then climbs incredibly steep up Monteramaceto. Beautiful views, which certainly boost my motivation. The track then gets rough as it follows the ridge. While the views keep being spectacular, I have to keep my focus on the rocky ground. Progress is slow on the way down too. 

Eventually, the trail gets smoother, as I climb to my designated camp spot. It's a huge horse paddock on sloping terrain. Luckily, there's one, just one, flat spot. Perfect to pitch my tent. Prime location with views of what must me the costal town Lavagna. 

Emotionally, it was quite a ride and also physically, the trail with it's up and down remains challenging. Yet, the views that keep getting better each day, are well worth the effort.