OF THE ORATORIES Welcome to a fascinating new chapter of «CamminandoInOltrepò», where our steps will lead us to discover the suggestive Path of the Oratories in the enchanting Oltrepò Pavese. Through our steps, we will explore a 14-kilometre route, immersing ourselves in a journey that winds its way through millenary history and unspoilt nature.
«CamminandoInOltrepò» accompanies us once again to discover the evocative paths of the Oltrepò Pavese, and this time our route will be along the evocative «Sentiero degli Oratori». With a length of 14 kilometres, an altitude difference ranging from 388 metres to 584 metres, and a duration of about 4 hours, this adventure will take us through breathtaking landscapes and ancient testimonies of faith.
The starting and finishing point of this exciting hike is the Church of St Paul the Apostle in the Val di Nizza. From here, we will descend along the old ‘Brignu‘ path, immersed in the history and beauty of these places, until we reach the picturesque locality of Molino dei Gobbi. At the crossroads, our path will take us towards Cascina Serzego, where we will encounter the Oratory of S. Lorenzo, a 16th-century jewel that preserves the spirituality of times long past.
After enjoying the hospitality of a local farmhouse, we begin the ascent along the cart track to the left, heading towards the peaks on the right side of the Nizza stream. The high path will give us breathtaking views, with the summit of Monte dell‘Orso offering a spectacular view of the Nizza and Ardivestra valleys.
Faithfully following the indications of trail marker 80, we will descend to the valley, passing through the picturesque village of Rivarolo, before reaching the Oratory of the Madonna di Casa Schiavo. From here, the «Sentiero del Partigiano» (Partisan Path) will lead us through a diversion that will take us to the memorial stone commemorating the sacrifice of Silvano Salvatici.
Continuing on our way, we will reach Località Monticelli with its characteristic fountain, and then head towards Casarasco, where we can admire the 17th-century Oratory of S. Rocco and the remains of the suggestive Malaspiniano castle dating back to the 9th-10th centuries.
Retracing our steps, we ascend to the village of Monte, immersed in the magic of shady oak and chestnut woods. Through the Via della Buca, we will continue along the path that will take us to the Oratory of S. Giulio, also known as the Oratory of S. Michele, dating back to the 11th century. From here, we will head towards Località Costa, where we will meet the signs for the impressive Big Bench No. 259, enjoying a panoramic view of the valley.
The last stretch of our walk will take us through vineyards and, in the distance, within sight of an antenna. Turning left downhill, we will finally reach the Church of S. Paolo, the place where this unforgettable adventure will end.
May your walk be one of discovery, contemplation and respect for the beauty of this land. Enjoy your walk!
