The hills of Piacenza are easily accessible from various regions, such as Lombardy, Liguria, Tuscany, Piedmont, and the rest of Emilia. Campers can find several parking areas or furnished rest areas, strategically located to enjoy the beauties of the territory.
The Piacenza Apennines' central-western region, which includes Val Trebbia and Val Nure, offers a journey through ancient manors, historic villages, and unspoiled nature.
Bobbio is the starting point for the first day. The recommended motorway exits are Piacenza Ovest (A21) or Piacenza Sud (A1), then take the ring road and the National Road 45 towards Val Trebbia, until you reach Bobbio. The rest area for campers, just outside the village, can be reached by a walk of about ten minutes.
Named in 2019 as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, its historic center is characterized by narrow streets and stone houses. There are several monuments not to be missed.
The village is rich in history, culture and architectural beauty.
There are many monuments of medieval age that are worth a visit, such as the Abbey of San Colombano founded by the Irish monk in 614; the Hunchback bridge or Devil’s bridge (with its fascinating legend), from which to enjoy a beautiful view of the river Trebbia; and, finally, the Castle Malaspina dal Verme, overlooking the upper part of the city and the Cathedral, already documented in 1075.
To enjoy the local specialties (like macaroni alla bobbiese, pins or pine nut pasta, or stewed snails), it's a must to take a break in one of the historic shops and in the typical restaurants in the village.
After spending the night in Bobbio, it’s time to leave. Along the National Road 45 in the direction of Piacenza, once in Travo turn over the bridge over the river Trebbia and continue along the Provincial Road 40, until you reach the Rivalta Castle.
The castle is located in the charming village of Rivalta and dominates the entire surrounding landscape with its spectacular tower. It is characterized by an interesting cultural stratification in which medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and neoclassical features are mixed.
The fortress is still inhabited by the Counts Zanardi Landi, a branch of the noble Landi family that has owned it since the 14th century.
After visiting Rivalta castle and savoring traditional food, it's time to leave, this time in the direction of Val Nure.
Cross the river Trebbia thanks to the Tuna Bridge and take the Strada Agazzana. In less than 15 minutes you reach Grazzano Visconti, to visit the neo-Gothic village and the adjacent castle (the latter can only be visited during the weekend).
After the visit, take the camper and drive along Provincial Road 654 until the Nure camper stop in Ponte dell'Olio, where you can spend the night.
Ponte dell'Olio is a small town that is recommended to be visited by foot, with a focus on the Church of San Giacomo, a medieval building with Antonio Sangalli's organ.
Nearby there are many wineries, especially in the area of Vigolzone. A short hike through the vineyards is highly recommended, followed by a tasting at one of the local companies that adhere to the Strada dei vini e dei sapori of the Colli Piacentini. (The road of wines and flavors of the hills of Piacenza).
You can also take the Provincial Road 36 to get to the Castle of Gropparello (we recommend booking a guided tour). It's a charming manor house, part of the circuit of the Castles of the Duchy, built on a rock spur overlooking the river Vezzeno.
