The Oltrepò Pavese, with its fine wines and breathtaking landscapes, has embraced the idea of broadening its economic horizons through an ever-growing sector: wine tourism. Historic wine cellars, local products and the diversity of accommodation facilities make the area irresistible to tourists eager to enjoy authentic and memorable experiences.
The hills of the Oltrepò Pavese, a hidden treasure in the heart of Lombardy, are emerging thanks to wine tourism. This form of tourism, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of wine and local gastronomy, is slowly but surely transforming the area into a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
Wine tourism on the rise in Italy and in Oltrepò Pavese: data confirm this
In Italy, where tourism represents 13% of GDP and the wine sector accounts for 6.2 billion in exports, wine tourism represents a unique opportunity to intertwine these two important drivers of the Italian economy with significant values. In fact, in 2023 the wine tourism sector recorded a turnover of around 2.65 billion euros, 2.5 million of which were generated precisely in the Oltrepò Pavese area, a growth of 10% compared to the previous year.
But what are the peculiarities that make Oltrepò Pavese so attractive to visitors?
Its strategic location, just a few kilometres from Milan and the Ligurian Riviera, makes it easily accessible for both Italian and foreign tourists. Moreover, the beauty of the landscape, with its vine-covered hills and medieval villages overlooking the vineyards, creates a magical atmosphere that wins the hearts of anyone who visits.
However, the real treasure of the Oltrepò Pavese is its high-quality local products: from renowned wines, such as Bonarda and Pinot Noir, to gastronomic delicacies, such as cured meats, cheeses and traditional sweets.
Enotourism: an economic development opportunity for companies in the Oltrepò Pavese area
Wineries and farms have seen their revenues increase thanks to the influx of tourists interested in discovering the excellence of the area through guided tours and tastings that ensure an authentic and convivial experience. But it is not only the wine sector that has benefited from this trend: the area‘s agritourisms, hotels and restaurants have also recorded an increase in bookings and customers, thanks to the Oltrepò Pavese‘s ever-growing reputation as a top food and wine destination.
In
conclusion, the Oltrepò Pavese represents an area rich in potential for those
who want to start a business in the wine and food sector, enhancing the
tradition of the area and attracting an increasing number of visitors, eager to
discover the secrets of wine production and savour the authentic flavours of
the local tradition.
