Base Nato: Mysteries, Trails, and the Magic Enduro in Finale Ligure
- Casa Manu Finale Ligure
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
base nato THE HISTORY
Among all the old military structures scattered across the Ligurian backcountry, there's one that still fuels stories, rumors, and legends: a mysterious underground base hidden beneath the mountain's peak.
Whispers about it started spreading in the late 1950s and early ’60s, right in the heart of the Cold War. When the base was officially shut down in 1992, the curiosity didn’t fade — if anything, it grew stronger. Early urban explorers turned their attention to Pian dei Corsi, hoping to uncover what might really be hidden beneath the surface.
base nato the legend
Up in the mountains above Finale Ligure, there’s a place that changes mood with the sky. Sometimes it feels like something straight out of a mystical tale — wrapped in fog, with the hypnotic hum of wind turbines echoing all around. Other times, it opens up in all its glory, bathed in golden spring sunlight. And then there’s winter — those crisp, clear days when, if you're lucky, you can see Corsica on the horizon.
We’re talking about the former NATO base at Pian dei Corsi — a place that, for us mountain bikers, is much more than just a destination. It’s a landmark. A little homeland hidden in the woods. And let’s be honest: when the weather keeps us away, we feel a little lost.
This is where the legendary Base Nato trails begin — the ones that helped shape the history of mountain biking in Finale. World Cup races were written here. So were epic rides, dusty days, and probably a million selfies at golden hour.
It's the kind of place that hits different every time. Alongside Melogno, Base Nato is one of the iconic spots to kick off your mountain bike day in Finale Ligure. Whether you’re on a shuttle day or going full pedal-power, this starting point gives you access to a trail network that delivers something for every kind of rider.
There’s Crestino trail — flowy and beginner-friendly, perfect to warm up and get into the Ligurian rhythm. Then the classic Base Nato lines, technical and rocky, delivering pure adrenaline. And if you're looking to truly connect with nature, don't miss Madre Natura: a deep dive into the forest, roots, dirt, and raw vibes.
🎒Little tip for first-timers:
If this is your first time riding in Liguria, just know — the “flow” you're used to in bike parks? Yeah, that doesn't really exist here. Forget smooth, manicured trails. Here you’ll find raw rock, tight switchbacks, natural features, and lines shaped by seasons, not machines.
But that’s exactly what makes Ligurian enduro so special: wild, raw, and real. Every descent is a journey — and you’ll carry a little piece of it with you long after the ride.
🎯 Want to ride these trails with me? I run guided tours for all levels, starting right here at Base Nato.Drop me a message or check out my upcoming rides!📍
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