The Val Tidone, located between the provinces of Piacenza and Pavia, is a corner of Italy that holds ancient traditions, lush vineyards and a wine and food culture of great value. This territory, far from mass tourism, offers visitors an authentic and genuine experience, where every hill and village tells a centuries-old story.
A Dive into Nature
The Val Tidone is a land rich in parks and protected reserves that offer an unforgettable natural spectacle. The Parco del Castello Dal Verme, with its 79 hectares of greenery around the majestic castle of Zavattarello, invites you to long walks along paths immersed in nature. This park represents a perfect combination of natural beauty and history, where you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy enchanting views.
At a higher altitude, 950 metres above sea level, the Pietra Corva Botanical Garden welcomes visitors with an extraordinary variety of plants from all over the world. Founded in 1967 by veterinary surgeon and naturalist Antonio Ridella, this garden is a true botanical treasure that offers an experience of peace and serenity.
The Castello di Verde Park, spread over 330 hectares between Val Tidone and Val di Nizza, is a magical and mysterious place. Inside, the Butterfly Garden is a paradise for rare lepidopterans, maintained thanks to the collaboration with the University of Pavia. This park offers not only a rich biodiversity, but also the opportunity to explore the remains of an ancient medieval castle, adding a touch of adventure to the trip.
Villages and Castles: Stories of a bygone era
The history of the Val Tidone is rich and fascinating, with villages and castles telling stories of bygone eras. Romagnese, for example, is home to a castle built between the 14th and 15th centuries by the Dal Verme family. This castle, which now houses a museum of rural art and the municipal offices, keeps alive the link with local traditions and offers a glimpse of life in the past.
Zavattarello Castle is another jewel of the valley. Built in 1390, this manor was owned by the Dal Verme family for centuries. In 1975, the family donated the castle to the municipality, which restored it and transformed it into a venue for visits, cultural events and exhibitions. Every visit to this castle is a journey through history, with its rooms recounting centuries of events and traditions.
Adventure and Relaxation between Mountains and Lakes
The Val Tidone is not only history and culture, but also an ideal place for those who love nature and adventure. Mount Penice, at 1460 metres high, is the highest peak in the valley. From its slopes flows the Tidone torrent, and the summit offers spectacular views encompassing the Trebbia and Staffora valleys. Whether you are a hiking, cycling or simply a nature lover, Monte Penice offers trails for every level of difficulty.
At the base of the mountain, Lake Trebecco, originating from the Molato dam, is a place of extraordinary beauty.
The Tidone Valley is a place where nature, history and culture come together in perfect harmony. Every corner of this valley tells a story, offering visitors a fascinating journey through enchanting landscapes, historic villages and centuries-old traditions. Whether you are looking for adventure, tranquillity or simply a place to rediscover contact with nature, the Val Tidone will win you over with its timeless charm.
