Discover the Oltrepò Pavese by mountain bike with Max Marisoli! A ring-route from Varzi to Mossago, through woods, mule tracks and historical places such as the Oratory of the Madonna della Neve. Adventure and culture for MTB lovers!
Discovering the Oltrepò Pavese area by mountain bike is a unique experience, and with Max Marisoli as our guide, another exciting excursion awaits us as part of the ‘Pillole di Oltrepò in MTB’ column. This time, the adventure will take us from Varzi to Mossago, through woods, chestnut groves, ancient mule tracks and historic oratories, to fully experience the beauty and history of the Pavia area.
Explore Varzi: The Heart of the Oltrepò Pavese
The tour begins in Varzi, an ancient village known for its historic buildings and castles such as the Malaspina Castle. This location is the perfect base to begin a MTB itinerary in the Oltrepò, with routes that can be customised according to difficulty and preference. Varzi offers access to trails and mule tracks through chestnut forests and breathtaking natural landscapes, making mountain biking exploration a truly authentic experience.
Trail 101 and the Variante per Rosara
Departing from Varzi, the group follows Trail 101, a historic route connecting Via Luigi Mazza to the small village of Rosara, famous for its small church. For those who love shortcuts, it is possible to deviate from the main route by discovering a variant that leads directly to the stony terrain of Trail 184, a secondary road immersed in nature that saves time on the ascent to Rosara, while still offering suggestive views.
The Oratory of the Madonna della Neve at Mossago: A Hidden Pearl of the Oltrepò Pavese
Among the places not to be missed during the tour, the Oratory of the Madonna della Neve in Mossago is an authentic historical and religious jewel, officially known as the Oratory of the Blessed Virgin of Villa Massaga. Built in the 16th century and restored in 1968, this building enchants visitors with its simplicity and secluded location in the woods. Arriving at the oratory means immersing oneself in the history of the Oltrepò, surrounded by wooded panoramas and unparalleled peace, ideal for a regenerating break.
The Return between Wild Trails and Panoramas of the Oltrepò Pavese
After the stop at the oratory, the route continues towards Mossago and Valdonica, with the option of returning towards Varzi along an asphalt road or, for the more adventurous, following a wild trail that passes below the farmstead of Mornarone. Here, the group rejoins Trail 101 and follows the mule track back to the starting point, thus completing a ring of about 14 km.
Conclusion: Sport and culture in the Oltrepò Pavese
The route led by Max Marisoli is not only a challenge for MTB enthusiasts, but also an opportunity to explore the Oltrepò Pavese, combining sport and culture. Every corner of this territory holds stories to discover and breathtaking landscapes, offering unforgettable experiences. For those who wish to extend the itinerary, there are several trails, monuments and castles to explore, making each outing a unique opportunity.
Don‘t miss the next appointment with ‘Pillole di Oltrepò in MTB’ for new adventures in the heart of the Oltrepò pavese!
