Don't miss the Paradiso Black Run and the Presena Glacier, which guarantees the lifts are open even out of season.

Especially in autumn, getting on a bike to explore a beautiful corner of Lombardy without resorting to our car is pleasant and possible.The destination to arrive at, and then set off pedaling, is Chiavenna, in the province of Sondrio, which can be reached by train. Valtelbike is a service made available precisely for those who want to move freely, with only the strength of their legs, a circuit that allows you to rent bikes in different locations in Valtellina, in our case Chiavenna, with the possibility of returning them to another location, for us Colico (Lecco), at the end of the excursion. We begin the ride through the streets of Chiavenna's center, among soapstone fountains, porphyry paving and typical locales; we cross the Mera River twice to find ourselves in front of Palazzo Balbiani, locally called the Castle; we pass under the Paradiso Botanical Park, an ancient and scenic stone quarry; and we climb northward arriving in the area of the crotti, small buildings exploited as natural refrigerators thanks to the Sorel, a wind that comes out of the mountain at 8ºC all year round. Today many have been converted back into restaurants. You reach the double drop of the Acquafraggia Waterfalls, able to fascinate Leonardo da Vinci so much that he cited them in the Atlantic Codex, you are in Borgonuovo di Piuro and it is here that you reverse course, heading south, returning to Chiavenna where you can admire two other noble historical-artistic testimonies: the Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo and the Monolithic Baptistery of 1100. Passing the Bridges over the Mera and Liro rivers, you pedal for 14 km slightly downhill on a paved path dedicated to bicycles. The peaks of the Chiavenna Valley provide the backdrop. At Novate Mezzola the environment changes abruptly: first the lake with its wide horizons, then the narrow mountainside passages. Verceia instead presents us with an extraordinary work of military engineering: the San Fedele mine tunnel. A charming lakeside passage introduces us to the Piani di Spagna Nature Reserve. From here to the Adda a few kilometers on the road require a minimum of attention, but the last stretch along the river puts us back in touch with nature; we pass by Fort Fuentes, of Spanish origin, and Fort Montecchio, dating back to the Great War; finally, we skirt the Lario and from the Molo di Colico we end the ride at the Lecco town's train station, in the shadow of Mount Legnone. - Cover image: @klaus dell'orto

Cultural Treasures in a Stunning Natural Setting

Nestled in the heart of the Upper Staffora Valley, Santa Margherita di Staffora is a charming village in the Oltrepò Pavese that preserves the authentic character of the Lombard Apennines. Located just a few kilometers from Varzi, the village lies along the course of the Staffora stream, surrounded by forests, meadows, and sweeping landscapes that invite visitors to explore and unwind. The municipal territory stretches to the point where four provinces meet — Pavia, Alessandria, Genoa, and Piacenza — making it a natural crossroads between Lombardy, Piedmont, Emilia, and Liguria. Its strategic location favored the passage of ancient trade and communication routes, such as the Via del Sale (Salt Route), which connected the Po Valley to the Ligurian ports through the Apennine passes. Among the most renowned localities in the area is Pian del Poggio, a well-known tourist and ski resort located at over 1,300 meters above sea level. In winter it’s the perfect destination for skiing and snow sports, while in summer it offers panoramic trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and trekking in pristine natural surroundings. Why Visit Mountain landscapes and nature:Santa Margherita di Staffora overlooks the Staffora Valley, surrounded by mountains that invite leisurely walks, scenic hikes, and relaxing breaks. History and culture:The area was a fief of the Malaspina family in the Middle Ages, as documented in a charter dating back to 1164. Authentic flavors:The village lies within the production area of the Salame di Varzi DOP, one of the culinary treasures of the Upper Staffora Valley. Lively traditions:The hamlet of Cegni hosts the Cegni Carnival, a popular folk festival held twice a year that brings together locals and visitors in a celebration of community and culture. What to See and Do The village and its hamletsA stroll through Santa Margherita di Staffora reveals traditional houses, views over the valley slopes, and numerous mountain hamlets — such as Negruzzo and Pian del Poggio — that tell the story of high-altitude life. Food and Wine: Salame di Varzi DOPNo visit would be complete without tasting the Salame di Varzi DOP, a symbolic product of the Upper Staffora Valley. Made according to traditional methods using selected meats, simple seasonings, and natural aging, it represents one of the most authentic flavors of the area. Santa Margherita di Staffora is one of the 15 municipalities officially recognized in the DOP production zone. Tradition and Folklore: The Cegni CarnivalThe hamlet of Cegni celebrates its Carnival twice a year — in winter and again on August 16, with the summer version known as the “White Carnival.” The festivities open with a parade, followed by traditional dances typical of the “Four Provinces,” and culminate in the symbolic marriage of the ‘Ugly Man’ and the ‘Poor Woman’. It’s a genuine experience of local heritage and community spirit. How to Get There Located in the upper Staffora Valley, Santa Margherita di Staffora can be reached from Voghera or Varzi along the valley road that follows the Staffora stream. Due to its mountain location, traveling by car is the most convenient option. Travel Tips The best time to visit is in spring, summer, or early autumn, when the weather is mild and trails are most accessible. To enjoy the Salame di Varzi, check with local delis or producers — some offer visits by appointment. If possible, attend the Cegni Carnival to experience a true immersion in local culture. Bring trekking shoes or comfortable footwear, as many hamlets and trails are in hilly or mountainous terrain. Combine your visit with a tour of the Oltrepò Pavese, exploring its mountain villages, natural beauty, flavors, and traditions. In Conclusion Santa Margherita di Staffora is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a slow and authentic tourism experience in the Oltrepò Pavese. Untouched nature, ancient traditions, and genuine flavors come together to create a truly memorable journey through the heart of the Lombard Apennines.

Gonzaga, Visconti, Sforza: a journey through cities steeped in history and culture

An aperitif in Lombardy is an opportunity to rediscover villages that seem suspended in time, with panoramic views to further enhance the experience.

Between the trails and panoramic views of the Lombardy countryside, nature meets expanses of water, for a truly unique experience.

Between the Adda and Martesana rivers, places tell the story of Lombardy's history and industriousness

Valmalenco is embraced by majestic peaks, such as Mount Disgrazia, Piz Bernina, Piz Scalino

A panoramic itinerary

Museo riguardante lo studio e la valorizzazione del territorio