Starting from the parking lot of the famous archaeological site of Libarna (a prestigious site of Roman origin) turn right in the direction of Serravalle Scrivia and continue straight on after the first roundabout, arriving at a first traffic light (Km 1.5) . Following the road which runs along the railway tracks we go through a second traffic light and at km 2.2 turn left and then right again in the direction of Alessandria at the third traffic light (km 2.3).

At this point, we follow the main road through Serravalle to a final intersection (km 3.00) from where we follow the road signs for Monterotondo. Leaving the urban environment behind, we start the uphill climb surrounded by beautiful vineyards and at km. 4.7 continue to follow road signs that indicate Monterotondo to our left finally reaching the small village (km 6.7). Cross the village completely.

After turning left in the direction of Gavi (km 7.2), we encounter a demanding route until Km 10.5 where we will meet the road that takes us to Gavi (turn right), a town universally known for the production of the famous wine of the same name.

Just before entering the village, after about 400 meters to the right is a detour to the fort of Gavi, (a historical fortress of millennial origin). Those who wish to do so can reach the fort and enjoy a fantastic panorama over the surrounding hills.

Once entered Gavi and having crossed the square, we take Via Garibaldi and follow it until we meet (km 11.8) signs indicating the villages of Mornese, Bosio and Parodi. Passing along Via delle Confraternite and Vico Portino (there is a well-preserved medieval fortress here) we continue on following the directions for Bosio and Mornese and at km 15 arrive at the small hamlet of Alice di Gavi.

Having travelled the main road that crosses the hamlet, at a certain point (at km 16.4) we follow the signs to the left towards Carrosio. After crossing a small bridge there is a demanding 4 km stretch before turning right in the direction of Voltaggio (km 20.2)

The small village of Voltaggio (a small village with characteristic Ligurian features) is almost 4 km away. Once we reach the entrance of the village (km 24.3 at a junction) we continue for another kilometre in the direction of Genoa, along the main road that runs along the village.

On reaching a roundabout (km 25.7), we take the first road to the right which leads to the characteristic village of Voltaggio, along with its art gallery, churches, buildings and its oratories (the famous and beautiful Capuchin Art Gallery is just before the bridge on the right).

After crossing the village from south to north (Via de Rossi, Via Roma and Corso Mazzini) we resume the road previously travelled in the direction of Carrosio (km 27.2). At km 31.00, near Carrosio, we follow the indication to the right which leads to the small hamlet of Sottovalle and from there starts the most demanding climb of the entire route, immersed in a wonderful natural setting characterized by the gullies present in this area.

Without ever leaving the main road and after crossing Sottovalle, there is a flat stretch (km 39.4) of the road which, to the left, leads to Arquata Scrivia. A visit to the Medieval Gothic House is highly recommended. We enter the town (km 41.9) and continue to stay on the main road following the signs for Serravalle Scrivia / Alessandria for about 2 km.

Finally, continuing to follow the signs towards Serravalle Scrivia and with the town of Arquata behind us, (the same stretch of the ancient Via Postumia for a couple of km) we return to the starting point on the right, halfway between Arquata and Serravalle Scrivia. By Ivan Reitano.

Archaeological area of the ancient Roman city of Libarna: for info and reservations visit www.libarna.al.it and www.scoprilibarna.it

Arquata Scrivia: Gothic House (14th cent.) with a permanent display of cribs and dioramas: for info and reservations visit www.arquatorpresepi.eu or call 339/3146346 (Mr. Alfredo Bossi)

Gavi: Historical fort of Gavi (10th cent.). For info and reservations please visit the site or contact the "Amici del Forte di Gavi" Association (info@fortedigavi.it).

Voltaggio: Capuchin art gallery of Voltaggio. For info and reservations visit www.pinacotecadivoltaggio.it or contact L'Arcangelo Association at 3474608672.