The mountain rises in the karstic complex of the Marguareis, on the water divide between the valleys of Ellero and Tanaro. At 2,612 metres above sea level, is the third elevation of the Ligurian Alps after Marguareis and Mongioie. Its prevailing rocks are Jurassic limestones. The north face of the Cima delle Saline consists in almost vertical cliffs, while its southern side is a long and gentler slope, rich in sinkholes. If seen from the plain, its summit shows a characteristic rounded shape.