Pinello footbridge
Walk from Porto to Ota via the Pinello footbridge, doable in both directions. A ford to cross along the way.
Advice from the Vaïta team
One of the finest walks in the valley
Just a few minutes from the Vaïta, the Spelunca Gorges are one of the finest walks in the valley. An old paved mule track follows the river upstream between granite cliffs, in the shade, with the water keeping the whole route cool. It is accessible, family-friendly, and you cross several Genoese bridges along the way.
My advice before you set off
The trail lets the most determined walkers reach Évisa, but it is a real trek for a result you can easily get to by car. I'd rather suggest you stop at the Zaglia bridge: that's where the walk is at its most beautiful. And if you want to walk longer, start from the Pianella bridge instead (a little lower down than the two bridges) rather than pushing on to Évisa. It is far more interesting.
On the ground
The trailhead: the Ota stadium
There is a trailhead from the village of Ota, below the school complex, but the simplest is to set off from the Ota football stadium. Ota had a large dirt pitch, which was sacrificed to gather the rocks after the storm.
Once parked at the stadium, walk down the tributary for a few dozen metres to go and see the Pianella bridge, a beautiful, very photogenic Genoese bridge that has inspired some superb shots from photographers.
As you head back up the river, two road bridges appear in front of you:
The route
A paved mule track, in the shade
The hike is on cobbles and steps: the aim was to carry olive oil all the way to Évisa, so the route was carefully thought out!
Information panels had been put up all along the way. They are worn away by the sun today, but the Ota town hall has plans to restore them.
The trail is fairly shaded, and the stream brings cool air that makes the walk pleasant despite the climb. I'd even recommend it with children.
🤫 The pro tip: the devil's cauldron
Off the main path, you can reach a little waterfall nearby: the devil's cauldron. I haven't actually seen it myself yet — my father is going to show me — but keep an eye out if you fancy straying a little from the trail.
Before you go
Practical information
Distance
4.2 km — round trip.
Duration
approx. 1h30 round trip, at a walking pace.
Elevation gain
+160 m — max altitude 290 m.
Difficulty
Easy — family-friendly, no exposure, waymarked trail.
Swimming
Possible in the Lonca (the left-hand bridge).
Stay 5 minutes from the trailhead
Hôtel Le Vaïta sits on the Porto marina, a few minutes from Ota and the start of the Spelunca. Our reception team can point you to the trails, the swimming spots and the other hikes around the gulf. Book direct for our best guaranteed rate.