If you are a lover of nature and outdoor walks, you cannot miss the opportunity to explore the Oltrepò Pavese area in the company of "camminandoinoltrepo", the social page that shares and disseminates itineraries to discover this magnificent territory. This time, they will take us to discover the beauty of Montalto Pavese, on a 9.6 kilometre hike lasting about two hours.
The starting and finishing point of our itinerary is the Belvedere - Madonna del Vento. From here, we will follow the ridge of the Costa del Vento, keeping to the left at the junction with signs for Vallorsa. After a short time, we will begin to descend along a steep track that will lead us to Cascina Tavernetto. This stretch is one of the most suggestive, with a panoramic view encompassing the surrounding landscape. We continue to the right at the next fork.
The path continues past a small wood to the hamlet of Vallorsa. Having passed the hamlet, we follow the signs for Montù Berchielli, where the 12th-century castle awaits us. This ancient manor, in an isolated and dominant position on the hilltop, is used as a private residence. We circumnavigate it keeping to our right, enjoying the splendid view it offers.
Continuing on our way, we reach the Agriturismo Fraschini and follow the lane to the right until the fork, where we turn left. The route continues on a downhill track, which becomes asphalted near the Agritur "La Caxa Mal Coti".
At this point, we keep to the downhill asphalt road, following the signs indicating the Costa del Vento. At the crossroads with Provincial Road 38, we turn right towards Cà del Fosso. After passing the Bar Trattoria of the same name, at the crossroads we continue in the direction of Villa.
We reach the Church of S. Maria Cisterna di Villa Illibardi and then ascend keeping to the right.
Here, there are two possible ways to reach the ridge:
1. First Option: At the fork to the left, we pass the houses of Casa della Giovanna. If there is no cultivation, we can ascend along the meadows, keeping to the right.
2. Second option: We continue straight on to the end of Via Villa and, after a bend to the left, we continue along a track that is very uneven in places.
Almost at the end of the climb, we will reach the famous giant yellow bench, known as the ‘bânconâ‘ of Montalto Pavese. But the art does not end there: the splendid ‘giant coloured pencils‘ that adorn the rows of the Pinot Nero Costa del Vento vineyard of the Cà del Gè winery await us for a further visual surprise.
This walk is not only a way to keep fit, but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture and beauty of the Oltrepò Pavese. "camminandoinoltrepo" once again offers us the chance to discover hidden and suggestive corners of this territory rich in history and nature. Prepare to be amazed and fascinated by every step you take along this fascinating itinerary. Happy walking to all!
