A Tibetan Bridge in Oltrepò Pavese

In the heart of the Oltrepò Pavese, where the Staffora and Curone valleys meet at the foot of Monte Vallassa, a spectacular new vantage point has opened over the Apennine landscape: the suspension bridge connecting the municipalities of Cecima and Ponte Nizza. Fifty metres above the ground, seventy metres long, with views over the hills and badlands that turn a simple walk into an unforgettable experience.

A Structure Built to Enhance the Territory

The bridge is part of the Oltrepò SmartLand project, funded by Regione Lombardia with the goal of strengthening the tourist offer of the Pavese Apennine areas through light, sustainable infrastructure. The concept is both simple and ambitious: making one of the most authentic areas of the province accessible and appealing, by focusing on tourism in direct contact with nature, far from mass-market routes.

The structure is managed by the Unione Terre dei Malaspina, which brings together the two municipalities involved in the route, and fits into an already rich network of trails that is set to gain new vitality thanks to this spectacular crossing.

Where It Is and How to Get There

The bridge stands in the Staffora Valley, at the foot of Monte Vallassa (756 m), on a plateau that forms the natural watershed between the Staffora and Curone river basins. Together with Monte Penola (694 m), this ridge creates a unique environment characterised by badland formations of considerable landscape and environmental interest — an almost lunar scenery, shaped by erosion, that offers striking views even before setting foot on the bridge.

The structure can only be reached on foot, and this is not a limitation but a deliberate choice in keeping with the spirit of the place. The recommended route is a loop trail that passes through some of the valley's most fascinating highlights: the caves and gorge of San Ponzo, and the Cà del Monte astronomical observatory, which on clear nights offers one of the darkest and most star-filled skies in Lombardia. Just before the observatory the path forks: left leads back to the village of Cecima, while right takes you to Cascina Rossago and then down the trail towards San Ponzo, completing the loop.

The elevation gain and trail surface make this a moderately easy hike. The one essential requirement, clearly stated by the municipalities, is wearing appropriate footwear for hill walking: hiking boots or trail shoes. With the right shoes on, the experience is open to everyone.

Crossing the Bridge: Rules and Tips

The Tibetan bridge is a delicate structure, exposed to wind and weathering, and its use is governed by precise rules designed to ensure safety and respect for the infrastructure.

Opening period: the bridge is open from 16 March to 14 November, exclusively between sunrise and sunset. During the winter period, from 15 November to 15 March, the structure is closed to the public without exception.

Maximum capacity: no more than ten people may be on the bridge at the same time. If visitors are crossing in the opposite direction, you must wait outside the structure until they have fully cleared it before stepping on.

Behaviour on the bridge: a minimum distance of two metres between users is required, changing direction mid-crossing is not permitted, and running, jumping or causing the bridge to sway is strictly forbidden. Children must always be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Weather conditions: access is prohibited in strong wind, thunderstorms, frost, rain or snow. Common sense, in this case, is the first rule of safety.

Anyone who notices damage or anomalies in the structure is asked to report them to the Technical Office of the Unione Terre dei Malaspina: +39 0383 59144 (Cecima) – +39 0383 59131 (Ponte Nizza).

A Catalyst for Tourism in the Oltrepò Pavese

The Tibetan bridge at Cecima and Ponte Nizza is more than just an attraction in its own right: it is one piece of a larger mosaic that the Oltrepò Pavese is building around its natural identity. Largely unspoilt valleys, medieval villages, traditional wineries and trattorias, skies suited to astrotourism, cycling and hiking routes: the area has all the ingredients to meet a growing demand from travellers seeking authenticity, slow travel, and landscape.

The crossing between Cecima and Ponte Nizza adds to this system an element of direct, memorable experience — one that can move even those who would not consider themselves seasoned hikers. Because walking seventy metres across thin air, fifty metres above the ground, with the valleys opening beneath your feet and the badlands of Monte Vallassa on the horizon, is something you talk about, share, and want to do again.

Before setting off, always check weather conditions and consult updated information on the Unione Terre dei Malaspina website. Access to the bridge is permitted only with footwear suitable for hill walking.