3. The finest Ligurian villages - Hike from Airole to Dolceaqua - Stage 3

The departure point for this itinerary is close to the pharmacy (farmacia). You will first head down into the Merdanzo valley and the track has red and white markers. You will cross the river on an old stone bridge and head gradually uphill on the other side along the bridle path (mulattiera) which reaches the ridge where the village of Perinaldo is perched at an altitude of almost 600m. It will take you around an hour and a half to reach the square in Perinaldo and enjoy, if the weather is fine, the splendid panoramic views. After visiting the village, go back the way you came until you reach the main road (altitude 481m) and, on the hairpin bend on the road, turn right. This small road goes through the hamlet of Morghe, with the Ulivi agriturismo. One kilometre further along, when you reach the Madona Addolarata chapel, you need to take the pilgrimage route towards La Vierge de Douleurs. You will arrive at a point above the old village, close to its imposing castle.