Nestled between the Trebbia Valley and the Aveto Valley lies an area of small villages, spectacular landscapes, and a slow-paced way of life. Here, time seems to slow to a gentler rhythm. Life unfolds quietly, in close-knit communities where traditions are still part of everyday life and the bond with nature feels deep and genuine.
This journey leads you off the beaten path into some of Piacenza’s most hidden villages - intimate places where tourism hasn’t changed the pace of life. Here, a handful of residents greet each other by name, stories are shared as naturally as a glass of wine and every corner offers a glimpse into a way of life that remains authentic.
The stages - Brugnello, Cerignale, and Cattaragna - wind through scenic roads and deep valleys, offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Apennines.
The route passes through several villages that are difficult to reach, where the landscape is the true highlight of the Brugnello stage, where stone houses cling to rugged cliffs, dramatically overlooking the winding curves of the Trebbia River below.
Community life, values, solidarity and culture define Cerignale, on the opposite bank of the river, which hosts a unique “transhumance” every year - a migration of books!
To combine scenic beauty with authentic flavors, the journey continues through the Val d’Aveto, where summer festivals and fairs bring the small community of Cattaragna to life.
The destinations on this itinerary are easily accessible whether you’re coming from Liguria via State Route 45 from Genoa, from Lombardy- either from Milan or Pavia - or from Piedmont, particularly the province of Alessandria.
Exploring the Piacenza Apennines is the perfect choice for those who are always in search of authenticity, a slower pace of life and uncharted places.
Tips
Useful Information
Although some locations can be reached individually by public bus, it is not possible to make the suggested transfers using public transportation; we recommend traveling by your own means (car or motorcycle).
Coming from the plains along the Trebbia Valley, a detour off State Road 45 leads to Brugnello, one of the most picturesque villages in the valley.
Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the river’s bends and offering spectacular views, the village has been completely restored and welcomes visitors with balconies and flower-filled gardens - quiet corners where one can relax and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the place.
To see
Curiosity
Rosa Domenica Mazzolini was born here, a nurse with a passion for art who donated an important collection of mid-20th-century art, now on display in Bobbio at the Mazzolini Collection Museum.
Nearby
Also in the municipality of Corte Brugnatella, you can walk to Carana, an ancient medieval checkpoint linked to trade between Liguria and the Po Valley. Its castle, once owned by the Malaspina, Visconti and Dal Verme families, was later demolished and its stones used as building material for the village’s houses.
After spending some time in the Brugnello area, you can get back in the car and continue along State Route 45 until you reach the turnoff for Cerignale.
This small village, located in the Upper Trebbia Valley, features cobblestone streets and small channels through which water from the local aqueduct still flows; in the evening, these are illuminated, enveloping the village in a truly enchanting atmosphere.
The village is home to numerous fountains, a public wood-fired oven and a double-wheel mill that is still in working order (though it operates only during certain summer festivals).
Here you can spend the night and enjoy some traditional dishes that blend the culinary traditions of Piacenza and Liguria.
Fun event
In August, in addition to the traditional village festivals and fairs, Cerignale also hosts the Transumanza dei libri: several bookstores in Piacenza bring authors to this village in the Apennines for meetings and presentations with the public.
To wrap up this journey dedicated to the slow pace of provincial life, we get back in the car and head toward Cattaragna, in the municipality of Ferriere.
Known as “the terrace of the Val d’Aveto” for the stunning views it offers of the surrounding landscape, the road leading there is winding and narrow, especially on the descent to Lisore, and the journey itself is part of the experience.
The village’s few residents offer warm hospitality to passing visitors; there is also a small shop and tavern, where you can sample local products and relax.
To Do
In the surrounding area, you can enjoy beautiful walks in unspoiled nature.
Events
During the summer, the town comes alive and several festivals are held. The most important ones are:
We recommend checking the updated schedule and dates on the official website.
