A new concept of hospitality, promoted by the Mountain Community of Oltrepò Pavese and involving the municipalities of Val di Nizza, Montesegale, Borgoratto Mormorolo and Fortunago, has given rise to an innovative form of experiential tourism. The aim is to offer an authentic welcome, free of charge, and attractive facilities and activities in a rural and historical context such as the Lombardy Apennines. This modality is based on the interaction between tourists and host communities, offering a daily welcome, facilities and free experiences in a rural and historical context such as the Lombardy Apennines. The first example is the former school of Sant'Albano, in the municipality of Val di Nizza, which has been transformed into a concrete example of a "hospitable community". A real centre dedicated to outdoor activities, wellness and sport. An example of a 'hospitable community' ready to welcome visitors in a unique and authentic experience within the local community.
The Hospitable Communities
The Hospitable Community concept is based on an experiential and community-based tourism approach, combining elements of experience, sustainability, responsibility and collaboration to create an integrated tourism offer. An idea that aims to offer authentic experiences, in which visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, interact with locals and discover the history and culture of the host community.
Enhancing the Alto Oltrepò Pavese. A complete experience of food, culture and landscape
The Alto Oltrepò Pavese is characterised by a number of distinctive features, such as its culinary richness, its culture, its breathtaking landscape, its history, the enhancement of traditions and the offer of outdoor activities. The Hospitable Communities development project aims to make the most of these unique features. The rehabilitation of the former school in Sant'Albano represents an important integration between the recovery of abandoned spaces and the provision of attractive services.
E-bike sharing: a sustainable mobility experience to explore Alto Oltrepò Pavese
A bike-sharing service has been set up in Ponte Nizza to encourage people to explore the area. Tourists can hire electric bikes and immerse themselves in the beauty of the landscape, discovering ancient villages and breathtaking scenery.
A state-of-the-art gym for wellness and sports training
The refurbishment of the former school in Sant'Albano included the construction of a modern gym for sports training. A space dedicated to well-being, where you can relax and regenerate after an intense day of hiking or outdoor activities.
Promoting experiential tourism
The initiative to transform a former school into a centre for experiential tourism is an important step forward in the promotion of the area and its characteristics. The integration between tourists and host communities promotes an authentic and enriching experience where local traditions, history and culture can be discovered. A successful experience for travellers looking for authentic and meaningful experiences that go beyond a simple visit to a place. The Mountain Community of Oltrepò Pavese is at the forefront of this trend with its Hospitable Community project, offering visitors the opportunity to experience first-hand the culture, nature and well-being of the area.
