This area of organic farming and steep valleys is a great place to stop and buy fresh vegetables of cheese as you drive around.
The lush Val di Vara is more undulating than the steep valleys that make up much of the Ligurian hinterland. Above all, it’s an agricultural area, and organic farming is a key part of the local economy; almost 70% of the local farms are organic. Beef and dairy farming are predominant, but there are also plenty of smallholdings producing berries, honey, vegetables, cornflour, chestnuts, wine and oil. You can stop and buy cheese and vegetables as you drive around. Many Spezzini who originally hail from here have weekend bolt-holes in the valley. You need your own transport to explore it properly. Budget for one or two days.