A Finale Ligure family enduro holiday never disappoints! Every visit brings new trails to explore, and I’m constantly impressed by the technical, rocky terrain. It’s no wonder they call it the Enduro Mecca.

But can you enjoy this paradise with a little one in tow? Absolutely! We did it last year when Edo was barely a year old, and again last week. It’s all about finding the balance between challenging rides and kid-friendly stops.

Family-Friendly Apartment in Pietra Ligure

This time we opted for a comfortable apartment (since our van wasn’t ready for sleeping yet) at Residence dei Fiori in Pietra Ligure (8 km from Finale). This location is ideal for sporty families, offering a playground, an indoor playroom for kids and a bike room with charging stations. The friendly staff and close proximity to the Ranzilandia Trail area made it a perfect choice. The newly furnished apartments also included spacious, free parking.

Pietra Ligure, while less famous than Finale, boasts equally well-maintained trails with a wilder vibe and fewer shuttles. This hidden gem even holds my favorite trail, Hellboy, which I always manage to squeeze into our Finale Ligure family enduro holiday!

Managing Enduro with a Trailer:

For our first ride in Pietra, we tackled the Ranzilandia climb together: me on the e-bike with the trailer and Dad on his enduro bike. Dad then descended two popular trails, Sentiero del Fieno and Dolcenera, while Edo and I took the same route down and stopped at the Ranzi Playground to wait for his return. We then switched roles, with Dad staying with Edo while I conquered the Armuin-Nostralino and Dolcenera trails.

All these downhill sections are best enjoyed solo, but the paved, scenic uphill route with minimal traffic and the playground at the top make this a perfect spot for parents to enjoy some enduro thrills. 

The most famous trails in Pietra, including my beloved Hellboy, lie further up Mount Carmo. Reaching this area with a trailer proved too long for our little one. So, I opted for a solo e-bike ride to test the uphill trails and shred a bit on the wet (but still enjoyable) tracks, particularly the technical yet fun Route Bella. Reaching the starting point of these trails is also possible via a pick-up shuttle from Pietra, but unlike Finale, reservations are necessary.

Beyond the Rides in Pietra Ligure: Exploring the Asinolla Nature Park

A Pietra Ligure vacation isn’t just about riding. This year, we discovered a hidden treasure: the Asinolla Nature Park at the top of the hill. This haven for donkeys and horses offers rides for little ones. While Edo wasn’t ready to ride yet, he enjoyed brushing Zeus, the friendly black horse.

The stunning views, barbecue facilities, and friendly staff make this a perfect spot to relax and explore. We even dreamt of organizing a future event for families who ride with trailers, creating the ultimate Finale Ligure family enduro holiday experience!

If you’re a solo parent seeking some enduro thrills with limited time, Finale offers numerous shuttle options to iconic spots like Base Nato or Rollercoaster. However, for a family-friendly ascent on your Finale Ligure family enduro holiday, the ride from Varigotti to the DH Men trail is unbeatable!

We parked at Varigotti (you can also start from Finale) and tackled the steep, paved (or concrete) climb with the e-bike, enjoying the stunning views of beaches and towns. After about an hour, we reached the 24h Finale trail area, where hikers and bikers share the path. These trails can be navigated with a trailer, especially one with shock absorbers due to the rocky terrain.

Together, we reached the starting point of the famous DH Men trail, enjoying Dad’s jumps and the beautiful scenery. Edo and I then descended the same route and relaxed on the Varigotti beach while Dad conquered the DH Men and DH Women trails. Both these downhill sections are technical and iconic, a must-do for enduro riders in Finale Ligure.

In Finale, we also tackled the climb up Mount Melogno towards Base Nato. We parked at Feglino and ascended on the main road. While the downhill trails here are fantastic, we recommend going solo or using a shuttle service due to heavy traffic, especially shuttles going uphill. This leaves limited space for a calm ride with a trailer. So, for a family-friendly option in Finale, choose the DH Men Uphill Ride – you won’t be disappointed!

Family Chill after the Ride in Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure’s post-ride chill is all about the beaches! Nothing beats cooling off with a swim, especially for little ones. We also love grabbing an aperitivo in Finalborgo, a charming medieval town brimming with outdoor enthusiasts. This year’s culinary highlight was the apple cake at Sbuccia bar, but the focaccia genovese is a local favorite and perfect for post-ride refuelling! This delicious refuelling is a must for any Finale Ligure family enduro holiday.

Wondering if you can enjoy the Enduro Mecca with your child? The answer is a resounding YES! Pack your family essentials, grab your little shredder, and get ready to experience the thrill of Finale Ligure! Here are some tips to ensure a successful Finale Ligure family enduro holiday:

• Choose the right location: Opt for an apartment or accommodation with kid-friendly amenities like Residence dei Fiori in Pietra Ligure, or consider the proximity to playgrounds and beaches in Finale.
• Plan your rides: Balance challenging enduro descents for solo riders with scenic, manageable climbs suitable for trailers. Pietra Ligure offers great options for both.
• Embrace the adventure: Be flexible and spontaneous. Let your child’s needs guide your itinerary, incorporating rest stops, exploration opportunities, and of course, delicious Italian treats!
• Gear Up: Invest in a good quality trailer with shock absorbers for a smoother ride on rocky terrain. Consider sun protection, snacks, and spare clothes for the little one.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Choose trails that match your child’s age and your riding abilities. 

Finale Ligure is more than just an enduro paradise; it’s a place where families can create lasting memories together. So, grab your bikes, embrace the adventure, and get ready to shred with your little shredder on your ultimate Finale Ligure family enduro holiday!