Discover the Path of the Brigands in the Oltrepò Pavese: a 3-hour hike through nature, legendary caves and centuries-old woods. Set off from Fego and experience a journey through history and breathtaking landscapes up to the Brallo Pass.
The Sentiero dei Briganti (Trail of the Brigands) is a hiking trail immersed in the wilderness of the Oltrepò Pavese, ideal for those seeking an adventure between history and legend. This evocative itinerary winds its way through the Staffora Valley, starting from the hamlet of Fego (Santa Margherita Staffora) and arriving at the Brallo Pass in Brallo di Pregola. The difference in altitude of around 400 metres and the total duration of three hours make it a route of medium-easy difficulty, suitable for walkers of all levels.
Departure: Fego and the Bar Montagnola
The hike begins in the hamlet of Fego, accessible by car up the Staffora Valley, in the municipality of Santa Margherita Staffora. Here, after parking near the junction for Fego, hikers can head towards the ‘Bar Montagnola’, a reference point from which the Sentiero dei Briganti officially starts. From here, take a path marked with classic red and white colours that descends to the left. In a short time, you reach a picturesque clearing dotted with granite boulders, where, according to legend, brigands used to hide in natural caves to ambush wayfarers.
The Radura dei Briganti and the Torrente Montagnola
One of the most fascinating parts of the entire route is the Radura dei Briganti, where imposing rocks create an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. History has it that brigands used these boulders and caves as safe havens to hide and attack passers-by, making the place steeped in mystery and adventure.
Along the way, we encounter the remains of the Cognassi Mill, an old mill now in ruins that represents a piece of the Staffora Valley‘s rural history.
The Bosco dei Giganti (Giants‘ Wood) and the arrival at the Brallo Pass
The route continues uphill and leads to the famous Bosco dei Giganti, an area of centuries-old chestnut trees of imposing dimensions. Walking under these majestic trees is an evocative experience that takes you back in time, through the shadows and lights of an ancient and unspoilt place. After the forest, the path joins a short asphalted section, which finally leads to the Brallo Pass, marked by a sign and the end point of the route.
Why choose the Sentiero dei Briganti in Oltrepò Pavese?
The Sentiero dei Briganti offers a unique experience among nature, history and legend. Located in one of the most authentic and least known areas of the Oltrepò Pavese, it is perfect for those who want a short but fascinating excursion. This hiking trail, which is suitable for various levels of experience, allows you to explore varied landscapes: from clearings with granite boulders to the banks of the stream, from the ruins of the mill to the centuries-old chestnut forest.
For those looking for anexcursion in the Oltrepò Pavese area under the banner of tranquillity, nature and history, the Sentiero dei Briganti is an ideal option. Not only does it offer spectacular views, but it also allows you to experience a piece of local history, with the legends of brigands and the remains of the rural past.
