The Upper Staffora Valley is transformed into a winter paradise when the snow comes. This beautiful valley offers ski lovers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in natural beauty and enjoy an authentic skiing experience. Breathtaking landscapes, well groomed slopes and the enchanting atmosphere that only the Oltrepò Pavese can offer.
The area
The Upper Staffora Valley offers skiers an uncontaminated and peaceful environment. The snow-covered mountains create a picture-postcard setting, inviting skiers of all levels to explore its slopes. The valley has an extensive network of tracks and slopes that wind through pine forests and breathtaking views.
It is not a large resort, but the slopes are fun and easy to reach, even for those arriving from Milan or Piacenza.
On the snows of Pian del Poggio
About 80 km from Pavia, in the municipality of Santa Margherita Staffora, is the Pian del Poggio resort. The resort has a two-seater chairlift that climbs from 1330 metres to the top of Monte Chiappo at 1700 metres. There are three ski runs of varying difficulty, suitable for beginners and advanced skiers: a 2 km run, a 1720 m run and a 600 m run. The slopes are well maintained.
There is also a snow park, while the little ones can have fun on the toboggan run next to the school camp. Near the ticket office you can hire skis, boots, helmets, snowshoes and snowboards. There is also a facility where you can rest and refresh yourself after a day's skiing.
Monte Penice
Situated between the provinces of Pavia and Piacenza, the Monte Penice district offers ski runs of varying difficulty to suit all levels of skier. The resort is equipped with an artificial snow system that guarantees skiing from December to March. In addition to the downhill slopes, there is a carpet lift to the school field and bobsleigh runs. There is a 70-metre bobsleigh run for children and two 70-metre and 160-metre gymkhana runs for adults. There is also night skiing every Thursday from 19:00 to 21:30.
There is also a snow park with three jumps and stunt structures. Not far away is a ten-kilometre cross-country skiing loop.
A snowmobile ride in the magic of winter
The Piani del Lesima, the wide open spaces, the snow. All the ingredients for an exciting and fun experience for those who love adventure and want to explore snow-covered landscapes. With a snowmobile you can reach places that are otherwise inaccessible and enjoy spectacular views. And sharing the excitement with friends makes a snowmobiling trip even more fun and memorable.
However, it is important to remember that snowmobiling must be done responsibly and with respect for the environment. Snowmobile tours are organised by the Hotel Sport Prodongo in Piani del Lesima, in the municipality of Brallo di Pregola.
The hospitality
Skiing in Ata Valle Staffora is not only a question of slopes and landscapes. The area is rich in traditions and authentic hospitality that make the experience of a winter day in Oltrepò Pavese even more exciting. Local refuges and inns offer delicious local dishes, giving you the opportunity to taste the local cuisine and perhaps warm yourself by the fireplace after a day on the slopes.
