Slow farming in Oltrepò Pavese for a start of the year amidst villages and wonders

If you’re looking for the perfect destination to start the year in harmony with yourself and nature, Oltrepò Pavese welcomes you with its unique and irresistible charm. This corner of Lombardy, the only outpost of the Apennines in the region, is a breathtaking mosaic of enchanting landscapes, authentic flavors, and timeless traditions, perfectly balancing past and present. Rolling hills dotted with centuries-old vineyards and picturesque villages provide an ideal refuge for those who wish to slow down and savor every moment.
Between New Year’s Eve and Epiphany, Oltrepò Pavese transforms into a magical land where time seems to stand still. Treat yourself to the pleasure of walking along nature trails, savoring the area’s finest food and wine, and immersing yourself in a peaceful atmosphere that rejuvenates both body and mind. Here, slow living is not just a lifestyle but an authentic experience, inviting you to rediscover the beauty of simple things, live every moment intensely, and be inspired by the simplicity and richness of a place that seems designed to welcome and regenerate you.

The rolling hills of Oltrepò Pavese unfold like a living painting: vineyards stretching across the landscape, stone-built villages, and scenic roads that invite you to lose yourself in the beauty of the moment. This is the land where exceptional wines such as Bonarda, Buttafuoco, Sangue di Giuda, Moscato, Pinot Noir, and Riesling are born, the result of a tradition that respects the rhythm and timing of nature.

But wine is not the only treasure of this land. Historic villages such as Zavattarello, Fortunago, Varzi, and Golferenzo offer a journey into the past, with medieval castles, rural churches, and fairytale-like atmospheres. It is no coincidence that many of these places are listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.”

What makes the experience in this extraordinary land truly unique are the people who live here and passionately preserve its traditions. The InOltre Association is the beating heart of a project aimed at promoting the region’s excellence through cultural and gastronomic initiatives that celebrate both heritage and innovation. Alongside them, the restaurateurs of Tavole Oltrepò welcome visitors with authentic cuisine made from local ingredients and recipes passed down through generations, turning every meal into a journey through the true flavors of this land.

Here, hospitality is more than just a service—it’s a sincere embrace. From charming villages to historic wineries, every encounter is an opportunity to experience the warmth and authenticity of the people of Oltrepò.

Crossed by the “Wine and Flavors Route,” Oltrepò Pavese is a true feast for the senses—an emotional journey through the aromas, tastes, and traditions that make this land unique. This fascinating itinerary, spanning 78 municipalities over approximately 60 kilometers, is much more than just a route; it is an immersive experience inviting you to discover the region’s food and wine excellence, breathtaking landscapes, and deeply rooted culture.
Every stop along the Wine and Flavors Route offers a unique discovery. From Varzi salami, made according to ancient recipes, to artisanal cheeses crafted by generations of cheesemakers, each product carries the history and soul of this land. The wines, the true protagonists of the region, range from noble reds to lively sparkling wines, such as the renowned Metodo Classico, a testament to the area’s winemaking heritage.
But it’s not just about taste—genuine hospitality in wineries, trattorias, and farm stays offers a warm and heartfelt welcome, making you feel at home. Undoubtedly, traveling through Oltrepò Pavese along this route means immersing yourself in a sensory and cultural journey, where the pleasure of discovery intertwines with the beauty of the land and the warmth of its people.

Spending a few days in Oltrepò Pavese between New Year’s and Epiphany means embracing a different rhythm, far from the rush of everyday life. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the landscapes, be captivated by authentic flavors, and experience hospitality that feels like home.

Whether you choose to stroll among the vineyards, visit medieval villages, or simply relax in a farmhouse surrounded by nature, Oltrepò Pavese will offer you a new year filled with simple yet unforgettable emotions.

Oltrepò Pavese is more than just a destination; it is a place where you can rediscover the joy of small things, live authentic experiences, and start the year on the right foot. To make your stay truly unique and help you feel part of a community that celebrates conviviality and tradition, here are some must-try experiences:

1. Winery Tours and Tastings
   Immerse yourself in the region’s winemaking culture with guided tours and tastings. Discover the charm of organic production and natural wines, symbols of a tradition that respects the environment.
2. Traditional Cuisine and Local Products
   Savor typical dishes such as braised meat ravioli, boiled meats with mustard, and artisanal desserts. Many restaurants and farmhouses use zero-kilometer ingredients, perfect for those who love genuine flavors.
3. Traditional Cuisine and Local Products
   Savor typical dishes such as braised meat ravioli, boiled meats with mustard, and artisanal desserts. Many restaurants and farmhouses use zero-kilometer ingredients, perfect for those who love genuine flavors.
4. Dreamy Villages
   Visit Zavattarello, Fortunago, and Varzi—charming gems that take you on a journey through history and authenticity.
5. Relaxation and Wellness
   Farm stays with spas and accommodations surrounded by greenery offer moments of pure relaxation, ideal for recharging.

Plan your holiday now between New Year’s and Epiphany and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of this land rich in history, flavors, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose to taste fine wines, savor traditional dishes, or simply wander through the rolling hills and picturesque villages, every moment will be a gift to your senses.
Book your stay and experience Oltrepò Pavese in slow mode, letting yourself be inspired by the authentic beauty of a place that welcomes you with open arms.

Come and discover Oltrepò Pavese: a slow journey that touches the heart and nourishes the soul.