What to do in Val Curone
The Curone Valley, distinct from the Valle del Curone (Lecco, Lombardy), takes its name from the Curone stream that flows through it. Located in the Ligurian Apennines, Val Curone is part of the territory of the Four Provinces: Alessandria (Piedmont), Genoa (Liguria), Pavia (Lombardy), and Piacenza (Emilia-Romagna).
The valley boasts typical Apennine flora and fauna, with rich biodiversity including meadows, forests, and wildlife such as amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. The local culture, similar to that of the Four Provinces, is reflected in its culinary and musical traditions.
The local dialects are influenced by Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, and Emilia-Romagna, as well as the first known inhabitants of the valley, who played a significant role in the regional dialect.
Feel the Curone Valley with our experiences.
The best hikes and nature
The Curone Valley (Val Curone) and the surrounding valleys offer budding hikers, professionals, or casual enthusiasts the opportunity to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
The flora and fauna of the Curone Valley frame the picturesque landscapes of the "Region of the Four Provinces."
Click here to discover the main trails that traverse the valley, along with their descriptions and GPS tracks to help you navigate.
Things to see (art & history)
Volpedo, the birthplace of Pellizza da Volpedo, is considered the cradle of Italian Divisionism. Visitors can explore the painter's landmarks, including his home. Volpedo, together with Garbagna and Varzi, is also listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.
San Sebastiano Curone is the birthplace of Felice Giani, one of the foremost figures of Neoclassicism. Just outside the village lies Guardamonte, whose rocks are rich with numerous marine fossils from prehistoric times.
Not to be missed is the charming village of Bobbio (Piacenza), located just an hour from the Guest House, a place said to have inspired Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.
What to eat in Val Curone
Local cuisine is based on simple ingredients, with traditional dishes such as panissa, a risotto similar to the paniscia from Vercelli, and pisarei e fasö, small dumplings served with pancetta, chickpeas, and pork rind. Also popular are cornmeal polenta and la bella calda, the traditional Genoese chickpea flatbread.
Among the most renowned local products are Volpedo Peaches, Timorasso wine and grapes, Salame Nobile del Giarolo, white truffles (Tuber Magnatum Pico) and local black truffles, mushrooms, and chestnuts. The area also boasts abundant fruit and vegetable production, including apples, pears, peaches, apricots, strawberries, and potatoes.
Sport in Val Curone
Nature, tradition, history, and fine cuisine—but above all, adrenaline in Val Curone!
Downhill: On the slopes of Monte Giarolo, the majestic peak overlooking the valley, Caldirola offers downhill tracks for both experts and beginners. Don’t have your gear? No worries—bikes and equipment are available for rent on-site.
Paragliding: At Guardamonte, in addition to discovering marine fossils and enjoying scenic trails, you can take to the skies with a paraglider and soak in breathtaking views of the Po Valley and surrounding hills. Thanks to our partnerships, you can experience this thrill at an exclusive discounted rate just for you!