Trekking and Hiking in Oltrepò Pavese: the most beautiful routes to discover in spring

With the arrival of spring and longer days, Oltrepò Pavese transforms completely. The hills return to a vibrant green, the vineyards slowly begin to awaken, and the air fills with that lightness typical of the first mild months.

This is the perfect time to start walking again.

Trekking and hiking become the most authentic way to explore the area: not just to move, but to truly experience it—at a slower pace, letting yourself be surprised by unexpected views, deep silence, and landscapes that change with every step.

From paths winding through vineyards to panoramic climbs in the Apennines, and routes connecting small villages and valleys, Oltrepò Pavese is an ideal destination for those seeking nature, tranquility, and authenticity.

Oltrepò Pavese is a surprisingly diverse territory. Within just a few kilometers, you move from gentle vineyard-covered hills to denser, wilder forests, and up to ridgelines that open onto vast panoramic views.

It is a land of transition and encounter, where Lombard influences blend with Ligurian and Emilian elements, creating a unique identity even in its landscapes.

Here, an extensive network of trails allows for tailor-made experiences: from easy walks suitable for beginners to longer, more demanding routes for experienced hikers.

Walking in Oltrepò means crossing places rich in history, entering villages that feel suspended in time, and immersing yourself in an authentic natural environment, far from mass tourism. It is precisely this intimate and quiet dimension that makes every hike special.

Among the most fascinating and complete routes is undoubtedly Trail 315A, a 19 km itinerary that perfectly captures the essence of the territory.

Along the way, you will encounter rolling hills, wooded sections, and views of small historic villages, creating a varied and engaging experience. This is one of those treks where you don’t just walk—you truly connect with the soul of Oltrepò.

It requires a moderate level of fitness, but rewards you with constant scenic views and a deep sense of immersion.

For those looking for a more relaxed yet charming hike, the loop in the first hills around Castana is an excellent choice.

This approximately 8 km route winds through orderly vineyards, small rural settlements, and countryside churches, always offering open views of the surrounding hills.

It’s the kind of itinerary to enjoy slowly, perhaps stopping along the way to take in the scenery or capture a few photos. Ideal for a half-day outdoor experience.

The Voghera–Varzi Greenway is one of the most accessible and appreciated routes in Oltrepò. It follows the path of a former railway line and connects several towns, crossing varied landscapes.

Its flat terrain makes it suitable for everyone: families, casual walkers, and cyclists. Along the route, you pass through places like Rivanazzano and Salice Terme, all the way to Varzi—one of the most characteristic villages in the area.

It can also be divided into stages, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences.

As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more mountainous. The hikes towards Monte Penice and Passo del Giovà are among the most spectacular in the entire Oltrepò region.

Here, the trails are more challenging, but they offer breathtaking views that, on clear days, stretch all the way to the Alps. The environment is truly Apennine, with forests, meadows, and wide open spaces.

These routes are ideal for those with some hiking experience looking for a more intense adventure immersed in wild nature.

The area around Romagnese is one of the most authentic and less crowded parts of Oltrepò. Nature takes center stage here, with trails winding through forests and panoramic ridges.

The hike to Monte Chiappo offers a complete experience: gradual climbs, deep silence, and sweeping views across Lombardy, Emilia, and Piedmont.

It is the perfect destination for those seeking a more intimate connection with the landscape, away from busy trails.

For a shorter yet highly scenic hike, the route between Volpara and Golferenzo is a true hidden gem.

Though only a few kilometers long, it is rich in atmosphere: you walk through vineyards and gentle hills, with continuous views over one of the most iconic landscapes of Oltrepò.

Arriving in Golferenzo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, gives you that sense of discovery that makes even a simple walk special—especially at sunset.

Beyond natural trails, Oltrepò Pavese is crossed by ancient routes that tell centuries of history.

Paths such as the Via degli Abati, the Via del Sale, and the Sentiero dei Celti e Liguri are not just hiking trails, but true journeys through time. These were once used by pilgrims, merchants, and armies connecting northern Italy to the sea.

Today, they offer a deeper experience, where trekking blends with cultural and historical discovery.

In a world that moves ever faster, walking becomes almost a countercultural act.

Trekking in Oltrepò means slowing down, taking your time, observing. It means rediscovering the value of silence, authentic landscapes, and simple things.

It is also a way to connect with a territory that still has so much to tell—without filters or tourist overload.

Spring is undoubtedly the best season to explore Oltrepò Pavese on foot. Temperatures are ideal, nature is in full bloom, and the light creates unique colors.

Whether it’s a walk among vineyards or a more challenging trek along Apennine ridges, every excursion becomes a different experience.

And perhaps this is the true secret of Oltrepò: a place that is not simply visited, but discovered slowly—step by step.