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.

Tour di Lodi in bicicletta tra natura e cultura: la Basilica di San Bassiano

An itinerary, along the Adda River, where it is possible to relive history thanks to the presence of two ancient forts that can be visited, one dating back to the time of Spanish rule and one built just before the outbreak of World War I.   Mountainous reliefs will frame the route, which will end on the shores of Lake Como, also known as Lario. The route starts from Morbegno station and ends at Piona station. From Morbegno station we arrive in the center by reaching the ancient bridge that crosses the Bitto stream. We continue until we reach Via Nazionale and then find a traffic circle, which is near the railway crossing. On the left, after the railway, we follow the signs until we reach a suspension bridge to cross to the other side. At the next traffic circle we take Via Carlo De Magistris, which we take uphill, and on the left Via Roma. The route continues on secondary roads to the Pian di Spagna Reserve and Lake Mezzola. Then we reach the bridge over the Adda River, which we follow until we reach Piona. ITINERARYDistance: 33.2kmDifficulty level: mediumRoad surface: asphalt and dirtElevation gain:+355m, -329m (Max slope: 18.9%, -20.6%; Average slope: 1.7%, 1.7%)Suitable for: allRecommended type of bike: allAverage duration: 3 h approx. AT LEAST FIVE POINTS OF INTEREST Morbegno Civic Museum of Natural HistoryThe Civic Museum was established by the municipality of Morbegno on March 14, 1974, thanks to the efforts of a local collector, Giacomo Perego (1922-2008), who donated the initial core of collections.Useful info: Museum opening hours: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 to 5:30 pm.Website: www.sistemamusealevaltellina.itPhone: 0342-612451 Pian di Spagna and Lake Mezzola Nature Reserve.The small plain (about 1,600 hectares) stretches at the confluence of the Valtellina and Valchiavenna. Majestic mountains and two lakes (Lake Mezzola and Lake Como) border this distinctive flat area.Useful info: http://www.piandispagna.it/Phone: 0344-84251 Fuentes FortThe 17th-century Spanish fort was commissioned by the Governor of the State of Milan, Pedro Enriquez de Acevedo Count of Fuentes, to extend his dominion from Valtellina and Valchiavenna to Upper Lake Como.Useful info: Opening hours: 10 am to 6 pm, only on specific days decided by the province of Lecco. For more information: https://www.fortedifuentes.it/ Fort Montecchio NorthBuilt in a few months, just before the outbreak of World War I, it is the best preserved in Europe. Its visit allows us to understand the austere martial life of the place at the time of the conflict.Useful info: https://www.fortemontecchionord.it/index.php?lang=itPhone: 0341-940322 Piona AbbeyThe priory of Piona is situated on the Olgiasca peninsula, immersed in an atmosphere of peace and serenity and where Cistercian monks still reside today. The church, in Romanesque style, dates from 1138 and is dedicated S. Maria.Useful info: Via Abbazia di Piona, 55 in Colico (LC)Hours: Monday to Sunday - 09:00-12:00, 14:30-18:00Tel: 0341-940331Website: https://www.abbaziadipiona.it/

A land to explore on 2 wheels...

Palazzo Arese Borromeo and its gardens, plus historical residences and old churches. In Cesano Maderno history is relived.

One of the world's best-loved places, Bellaggio lies on the tip of the central headland, offering convenient ferry access to both branches of the lake

Together with Renzo and Lucia in the streets of Lecco. Then on to discover the eastern bank of the Como Lake. Start with Varenna

At the foot of the Piccole Dolomiti mountains, and surrounded by their wooded slopes, this is almost a mountain lagoon.

Explore six stunning fortified towns in Lombardy. Perfect destinations for a spring day out

At the foot of the Little Dolomites, Lake Idro is lapped by wooded slopes. Perfect for sports, it is the scene of an incredible carnival