Fontana Fredda

There’s a lot to learn about the Arroscia Valley, home of the Pigato white wine from a former Genoan colony and well supplied with other food specialities like olive oil, garlic, chestnuts and peaches (which, of course, you must keep your eyes peeled for as you make your rounds…). High numbers of hiking trails graze the valley’s slopes. One of the most splendid stops is the Arroscia Waterfalls (half an hour's drive). Forte Centrale (10 minutes), a fort dating back to the late 1800s, is surrounded by hiking trails. If off-roading takes your fancy instead, head to Colle del Garezzo (40 minutes). The coast is also well within reach should you want to switch the slopes for the sand. The hilly hamlet of Imperia (40 minutes) has a busy beachfront and restaurants serving the likes of torta verde (a famed savoury tart).