The Trebbia River runs clear and cold through its upper valley, and in summer the pools between the rocks become some of the most refreshing swimming spots in the Ligurian hinterland. Genoese families have been coming up the valley to escape the coast heat for generations, and the river is the main attraction — there are no formal bathing areas, just the river itself, the flat rocks for sunbathing, and the cold water.
The best swimming pools are found in the stretch around Torriglia and the villages above, where the river runs wide over smooth basalt and drops into deep green pools. The water is clean, fed by mountain springs, and stays cool even in August when the coast is unbearable. Pack a picnic and plan to spend an afternoon. Access points vary — local bars and tabacchi in the valley villages will point you to the best spots for the current water level.