The aim of this itinerary is primarily to take visitors on a journey through the Oltrepò valleys whose wines are so famous.

VALLE VERSA: famous for excellent red and white wines. From Stradella, the town of the accordion, to Montecalvo Versiggia, international capital of Pinot Noir and site of a corkscrew museum to Canevino on the historic San Colombano footpath.

VALLE SCUROPASSO: in the midst of the Versa and Coppa valleys, it emerges from the oak forests and false acacia which cling to the bastions of the Ligurian Appenines before descending towards the Rocca de’ Giorgi, Montecalvo Versiggia, Montalto Pavese and Pietra de’ Giorgi vineyards. Broni on Via Emilia, one of the most important towns in the Oltrepò area, is in the valley at the point at which it opens out into the plains.

VALLE COPPA: the main town is Casteggio, theatre of the famous 222 BC battle in which Roman consul Marcus Claudius Marcellus defeated the Celts. In 218 BC, after Hannibal had taken control, it was razed to the ground by the Romans. Packed like the others with castles and fine religious buildings, the valley boasts a charming village - Fortunago - one of the Borghi più Belli d'Italia, the most attractive towns in Italy.

Photo Credit: Gianni Santolin