Val Graveglia – Liguria: mines, vegetable gardens and green ridges in the heart of the Tigullio hinterland. Val Graveglia is located in the hinterland of Lavagna and Chiavari, in the heart of eastern Tigullio. It is a small valley, furrowed by the Graveglia stream, framed by chestnut woods, olive groves, vegetable gardens and ancient manganese mines. A place where the most authentic Liguria still retains its deep bond with the land, work and memory. 🌲 Wilderness and cultivated landscape: The slopes of the valley are covered by mixed woods, dotted with small stone villages and strips planted with vegetables and olive trees. High up, the ridges of Monte Zatta and Monte Biscia open up views of the Val di Vara, the Gulf of Tigullio and the first peaks of the Ligurian Apennines. 👉 Tip: Going up from Conscenti, take the path to the Passo del Biscia: a slow climb through chestnut trees, streams and sudden glimpses towards the sea. ⛏️ Mining history and industrial archaeology: The valley is known for the presence of the Gambatesa Mines, among the most important in Italy for the extraction of manganese. Now transformed into a museum park, they tell the story of work and ingenuity among galleries, trolleys and underground shafts, which can be visited with specialized guides. 👉 Tip: Take part in a guided tour of the Gambatesa Mines: a unique experience, also suitable for children, to discover the Ligurian underground safely. 🌿 Biodiversity and silences of the hinterland: The valley is home to wild orchids, amphibians, birds of prey and a varied vegetation that changes rapidly with altitude. The paths between terraced fields, shady woods and sunny ridges allow half-day or full-day excursions, even for inexperienced hikers. 👉 Tip: Visit the Zatta Wildlife Oasis Nature Reserve: an environment that is still little known, but full of charm and quiet. 🍅 Historic gardens, local flavors and rural markets: Val Graveglia is famous for its traditional vegetables, such as Lavagnino broccoli, local beans and wild herbs used in local cuisine. In Conscenti, the heart of the valley, agricultural markets and fairs related to rural biodiversity are held. 👉 Tip: Taste the savory rice cake in a local trattoria: a simple dish, but closely linked to the daily work of the farmers of the valley. 🚶 ♀️ Villages, mule tracks and historical paths: The villages of the valley – Conscenti, Statale, Arzeno and Reppia – are connected by old mule tracks that once led to Chiavari or in the direction of the Val di Vara. Today they can be traveled on foot, by bike or on horseback, crossing bridges, dry stone walls and dense woods. 👉 Tip: Follow the path from Conscenti to Arzeno: an easy itinerary through olive groves, woods and peasant testimonies. Val Graveglia is a hidden, tenacious and generous Liguria. Here every path sinks into the earth, every stone tells the story of the work, and every season offers ancient colors to be rediscovered slowly.