The Oltrepò Pavese is one of the most fascinating areas of Lombardy, renowned for its rolling hills, medieval villages, historic castles, and panoramic views across the vineyards. Located between Emilia-Romagna and Piedmont, with convenient connections to Liguria, this region offers countless opportunities for excursions, cultural itineraries, and wine tastings during your stay. It is a perfect destination for lovers of slow tourism, nature, and authentic experiences.
Places to visit
Places to visit less than 50 km away:
Places to visit between 50-100 km away:
Places to visit between 100-150 km away:
Oltrepò Pavese offers nature lovers countless routes which can be accessed on foot, by bicycle, by motorbike or on horseback. The landscape is characterised by orderly vineyards and wild forests. There is no lack of inviting castles, pretty villages and delicious food.
Art, culture and nature
The Oltrepò Pavese, in the heart of the province of Pavia, is an ideal destination for those seeking nature, historic villages, medieval castles, and outstanding food and wine traditions. Among hills and vineyards, you will discover numerous hilltop fortresses and breathtaking landscapes.
Among the most fascinating attractions are the Castello di Zavattarello, located in one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the area, the Castello di Montalto Pavese, Valverde, Torre degli Alberi, and Pietragavina — perfect destinations for hiking, cultural visits, and scenic routes.
A short distance away you can visit the Certosa di Pavia, a masterpiece of Lombard Renaissance architecture. In the historic center of Pavia, the Chiesa di Sant’Agostino and the historic Università di Pavia, one of the oldest universities in Europe, are also worth a visit.
In Vigevano, don’t miss the magnificent Piazza Ducale, the Castello Sforzesco, and the Mulino di Mora Bassa, where you can see the machines designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
Just a few minutes away are the Val Tidone and the Val Trebbia, rich in castles such as the Rocca d’Olgisio and the Castello di Rivalta.
For nature lovers, highlights include the Parco Le Folaghe, the Parco Palustre di Lungavilla, the Riserva Monte Alpe, the Giardino di Pietra Corva, and Monte Penice — ideal for trekking, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
Gastronomy
The Oltrepò Pavese is a renowned destination for Italian food and wine, shaped over centuries by authentic ingredients, rolling vineyards, and fertile countryside. The local cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, offering simple yet flavorful dishes that pair perfectly with the region’s typical wines.
This area is a true paradise for wine lovers. In fact, when looking at the map of the Oltrepò Pavese, the territory resembles the shape of a bunch of grapes. The Oltrepò is the largest wine-producing area in Lombardy and ranks first in Italy for the production of Pinot Nero. Here, this prestigious grape variety finds its ideal habitat among sun-drenched hills and perfectly suited soils.
Oltrepò Pavese Wines to Taste
- Pinot Nero, also available as high-quality sparkling wine
- Bonarda, a fruity and traditional red wine
- Buttafuoco, a full-bodied red wine produced in a limited area
- Sangue di Giuda, a distinctive sweet red wine
- Lively, semi-sparkling and sparkling wines appreciated throughout the region
The Province of Pavia is also the leading rice-producing area in Italy, with over 80,000 hectares of rice fields, especially in the Lomellina district. This agricultural richness is reflected in a diverse and authentic culinary tradition.
Among the typical products and traditional dishes of the Oltrepò Pavese are the famous Salame di Varzi, goose from Lomellina, frogs, game meat, and recipes based on anchovies and cod, all enhanced by perfect pairings with local wines.
A stay in the Oltrepò Pavese is also a journey through flavors and traditions. The perfect time to discover its authentic cuisine and outstanding wines is now.