The Oltrepò Pavese area in Piedmont is a hidden gem with authentic Italian landscapes, history and gastronomy.
Easily accessible from three airports
Less than two hours south of Milan across the Po River, this enchanting region has something for everyone - from wine lovers to history enthusiasts to those craving a peaceful retreat in nature. It is easily accessible from MIlan for day trips or longer stays and is often called “The Tuscany of the North” for its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque towns. The closest major airport is Milan Malpensa Airport where visitors can rent a car or take a train to Pavia city, followed by local transport. Milan Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio airports are also viable alternatives depending on the planned itinerary.
Wine tastings and tours, hiking, and cycling
The Oltrepò Pavese is famous for its wine production, especially sparkling wines and the Pinot Noir varieties. It is the largest wine-producing area in Lombardy and wine tourism is concentrated in the many family-run wineries that welcome guests for tastings and vineyard tours. Beyond the vineyards, the Oltrepò’s peaceful rural charm makes it an ideal destination for outdoor lovers, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature reserves like the Pietra Corva Hills and the Staffora Valley.
Hiking trails and Romanesque architecture
Visits to the area can start in the town of Voghera, a charming hub with historical sites such as the imposing Castello Visconteo, a medieval fortress dating back to the 14th century. Pavia has the magnificent Charterhouse of Pavia, a Renaissance monastery and is also home to many interesting museums and a botanical garden Wine lovers should not miss a visit to the small town of Casteggio, which produces some of Italy’s finest sparkling wines. Nature lovers will delight in the hiking trails of the Oltrepò hills, particularly in the Monte Alpe nature park where the landscape changes with the seasons. For history buffs, the Abbey of Santa Maria di San Salvatore in Pavia is a must-see with its Romanesque architecture and centuries of religious art.
Delicious local pasta and rice dishes
Traditional local dishes include “pizzoccheri” a type of pasta made from buckwheat and cooked with potatoes, cabbage, and melted cheese. Another local specialty is “Risotto alla Milanese,” which is rice cooked to a smooth saffron-infused cream and often enjoyed with a glass of Oltrepò’s signature wine. Also not to be missed is the “Salame di Varzi,” a cured sausage with a protected designation of origin which is usually served with freshly baked bread and a drizzle of local honey.
Thermal waters, food and wine festivals
The Oltrepò Pavese is part of a broader region that includes thermal springs such as those found in Monticelli Brusati, which are known for their rejuvenating properties, and venturing further south to the Ligurian coast there are many opportunities for a change of scenery. The region hosts many festivals celebrating wine and food, especially in autumn during the grape harvest. These events are a fun and authentic way to mingle with locals and experience the warmth of Italian hospitality.
