Oltrepò Pavese extends for more than a thousand square kilometers amid the provinces of Piacenza, Alessandria and Genoa.
In the center of this enchanting region lies the Versa Valley, which climbs from the Po Valley plain through vine-covered hills and small villages to the forested peaks of the Lombard Apennines. Wine and food are at the center of life here and many local restaurants serve excellent wine and food that is prized by discerning Italians and waiting to be discovered by wider world.
Here in Oltrepò tourists can relax in nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor and cultural activities, such as visiting Bobbio, a quaint, small town of Roman origin, or driving to Mount Penice Pass (1149 meters) to enjoy the view from an old sanctuary.
In the community of Romagnese, 950 meters above sea level, you can visit the Alpine Botanic Garden of Pietra Corva, which houses more than 1,300 species of flowers and plants. Then there is the medieval village of Zavattarello, where you will find the imposing, suggestive fortress of Dal Verme Castle, which is the site of numerous cultural events.
Other ideal destinations include Varzi, with its beautiful religious buildings and the high tower of Porta Soprana, or Ponte Nizza where you will find the charming Hermitage of St. Albert of Butrio, and not to be missed is Fortunago, counted among the most beautiful villages in Italy.
The proximity of Oltrepò to Pavia makes it convenient to visit that historic small city with its many churches, famous old university, covered bridge, Visconti Castle and above all the Certosa, a splendid example of architecture and artwork that combines different styles, from the late Italian Gothic to the Renaissance.
These are just some of the many things of artistic, historical, archaeological and natural interest that Oltrepò Pavese offers its welcomed guests.
