The Trossa valley and the Frontosini cliffs

The starting point of the route can be reached from the villages of Libbiano, Micciano and Serrazzano, along the dirt road that leads to the Monterufoli Reserve.
We recommend NOT taking this route immediately after heavy rain because of the 2 fords on the Trossa stream.

WARNING, at the second ford on the Trossa, go slightly upstream and then take the track again on the opposite bank
This is one of the most demanding routes as it features imposing rocky environments and wild river ecosystems of the Trossa torrent. After leaving the reforestation areas, where the maritime pine seems to have become an indigenous species in the Mediterranean scrub, the trail descends through garrigues with prickly juniper that then give way to incredible panoramic views of the Trossa valley and the Frontosini cliffs, steep, large scree slopes of serpentine rock where small mouflon herds may very often be spotted.
The ford of the Trossa is located in one of the most spectacular stretches of the torrent, nestled between gabbro boulders, geological folds of limestone, crystalline pools and particularly significant riparian flora and fauna. The trail climbs up through the cool holm oak woods of Farneta, passing ancient charcoal pits, before descending again to the Trossa.
After a long flat stretch flanking the stream, you will then climb up towards Timignano, then find a rather cool and fertile area with small pools of water and clear signs of the passage of ungulates, foxes and wolves, until you will reach the final stretch of the Aia al Cerro with a reforestation of turkey oaks on areas that were once land used for agriculture and pastoral farming.

Hiking difficulty scale

T - Tourist

Itineraries on small roads, mule tracks or easy paths, with clearly evident routes that do not pose uncertainties or problems of orientation. They generally take place below 2000 m and usually constitute access to mountain pastures or refuges. They require some knowledge of the mountain environment and physical preparation for walking.

E - Hiking

Routes that almost always turn on paths, or on traces of passage in various terrain (pastures, debris, stony ground), usually with signs. They require a certain sense of orientation, as well as a certain experience and knowledge of the mountainous territory, walking training, as well as appropriate footwear and equipment. Normally the difference in altitude is between 500 and 1000m.

EE - Expert hikers

Routes not always marked and which require a good ability to move on various mountain terrains. They can be paths or even faint traces that wind over rough or steep terrain, with steep and slippery slopes, scree and short snowfields that can be overcome without the use of climbing equipment. They need a good mountain experience, firm footing and good physical preparation. It is also necessary to have adequate equipment and equipment, as well as a good sense of direction. Normally the difference in height is greater than 1000m.

EEA - Expert hikers with mountaineering equipment

Routes that require the use of via ferrata equipment (lanyards, harness, heat sink, helmet, etc.). They can be equipped paths or real via ferratas. It is necessary to know how to use the technical equipment safely and have a certain habit of exposure and mountaineering terrain.

MTB difficulty scale

TC - Tourist

Route on dirt roads with a compact and smooth surface, suitable for vehicles.

BC - For cyclists with good technical skills

Route on very bumpy dirt roads or on mule tracks and paths with a rather bumpy but fairly smooth surface or compact but irregular, with some natural obstacles (eg rock steps or roots).

OC - For cyclists with excellent technical skills

As above but on very bumpy and / or very irregular paths, with significant presence of obstacles.

EC - Maximum level for the cycle excursionist

Path on very irregular paths, characterized by steps and obstacles in continuous succession, which require trial-type techniques.