Self-Guided Oltrepo Pavese and Lombardy's Wine Country Bike Tour
Oltrepò Pavese, meaning “beyond the Po River,” is Lombardy’s hidden wine country, stretching from the fertile plains south of Pavia into the rolling foothills of the Apennines. Known for its vineyard-covered hills, medieval villages, and outstanding Pinot Nero wines, the region offers a quieter, more authentic side of northern Italy.
The Oltrepò Pavese cycling tour is a relaxed yet rewarding journey through this underrated landscape. Based entirely in the region, the route follows quiet country roads through vineyards, forested hills, and historic valleys shaped by rivers and old trade routes. Starting and ending in Stradella, you ride daily loops that balance scenic climbs with gentle descents.
Along the way, you pass hilltop borghi such as Zavattarello and Fortunago, ride past castles and stone villages, and enjoy the region’s rich food and wine culture. Local DOC wines, traditional dishes, and a guided wine tasting are included, with one full day spent riding alongside a local guide who brings deeper insight into the landscape, history, and traditions.
This tour is ideal for cyclists drawn to nature, authenticity, and slow travel—far from the crowds, yet rich in character and flavor.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Stradella
Stradella
moderate
44 km / 27 mi
4
Min. 2, Max. 12
Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
Highlights

Authentic Lombardy Landscapes
Cycle through the rolling hills of Oltrepò Pavese, a quiet wine region filled with vineyards, forests, and scenic backroads. It’s a side of Lombardy that feels untouched and far from mass tourism.

Medieval Villages and Castles
The route passes through beautifully preserved borghi like Zavattarello and Fortunago, with stone streets, hilltop castles, and panoramic viewpoints that reward every climb.

Wine, Food, and Local Traditions
Local DOC wines, regional dishes, and a guided wine tasting bring the flavors of the region to life. Food is not an add-on here. It’s central to the experience.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Stradella | Hotel Italia (4 Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Stradella | Hotel Italia (4 Star) | B,D | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Zavattarello | Albergo Ristorante Baldazzi 1916 | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Varzi | Agriturismo La Sorgente | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Salice Terme | Hotel Milano Pool & Garden | B | 32 km / 20 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Salice Terme | Hotel Milano Pool & Garden | B | ||
| DAY 7 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Stradella
You arrive individually in Stradella, the charming gateway to the Oltrepò Pavese region. Take time to settle into your hotel and explore this historic town set along the ancient Via Postumia. Wander through the atmospheric old centre, where the Civic Tower still marks the heart of the former fortified village and the Accordion Museum reflects the town’s cultural heritage.
Discover the Romanesque Basilica of San Marcello in Montalino, a National Monument set among rolling vineyards. In the evening, enjoy your first taste of local Lombard cuisine and relax in preparation for your first full day of biking through scenic countryside and wine-rich hills.

Day 2: Stradella
Your first cycling day is a scenic loop through the vineyard-covered hills surrounding Stradella. You ride toward Montù Beccaria along quiet country roads, passing wine estates and panoramic viewpoints. The terrain features rolling climbs balanced by enjoyable descents. Opportunities to visit traditional wine cellars highlight the region’s strong viticultural heritage.
You return to Stradella in the afternoon with time to relax. Dinner is included at the hotel.
Elevation: 750 m ascent

Day 3: Zavattarello
Today you leave Stradella and ride deeper into the hilly heart of the region. The route winds through vineyards and woodland before reaching Lake Trebecco and the Molato Dam. This is one of the more physically demanding days, with long but manageable climbs. From the dam, you continue toward Zavattarello, a striking hilltop village crowned by its medieval castle.
The views from higher elevations are among the best of the tour.
Elevation: 1,003 m ascent and 553 m descent.

Day 4: Varzi
You begin cycling through quiet countryside toward Fortunago, one of Italy’s officially recognized beautiful villages. The route passes near the Castle of Oramala, dramatically positioned on a rocky ridge. Rolling terrain continues throughout the day, mixing sustained climbs with long descents into the valleys.
You finish in Varzi, known for its medieval center and food traditions. The varied elevation makes this a rewarding ride for confident cyclists.
Elevation: 980 m ascent and 1,110 m descent.

Day 5: Salice Terme
Today’s ride follows the Val Curone, a historic corridor linking the hills to the plains. You cycle along peaceful roads bordered by rivers, farmland, and small settlements. The terrain is gentler than previous days, especially if you choose the greenway alternative. Both routes lead to Salice Terme, a spa town known for its relaxed atmosphere. This day offers a welcome easing of elevation.

Day 6: Salice Terme
A full day in the company of our local guide to discover the real Oltrepò Pavese: gentle hills, medieval villages, vineyards, and timeless landscapes.
You’ll cycle along scenic roads surrounded by nature, stopping to learn about local traditions, small producers, and the region’s strong connection with wine and gastronomy. The day includes a wine and local products tasting, the perfect opportunity to experience the authentic flavors of this lesser-known corner of Lombardy.

Day 7: Departure
After breakfast at your hotel, your cycling journey through Oltrepò Pavese comes to a relaxed close. With no riding scheduled today, you have time to enjoy a final walk through the town, pick up local products, or stop for a coffee before heading home. This last morning is unhurried, allowing you to reflect on the landscapes, villages, and vineyard roads you have explored over the past week.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hotel Italia (4 Star)

Albergo Ristorante Baldazzi 1916

Agriturismo La Sorgente

Hotel Milano Pool & Garden
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Trekking Bike (Unisex) or similar
Included in your trip price

Trekking E-Bike or similar
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Stradella, the gateway to the Oltrepò Pavese region. The most convenient airports are Milan Linate Airport (LIN) and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). From either airport, take a taxi or airport transfer to Milan city, then continue by train to Stradella. Direct regional trains from Milan take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Taxis from nearby cities like Pavia are also an option if you prefer a door-to-door transfer. Plan to arrive by early afternoon to allow time for the initial briefing and bike setup.
Departure
The tour ends in Salice Terme after breakfast. From your hotel, you can book a local taxi to Stradella, Pavia, or Voghera railway stations, all of which have regular train connections to Milan. From Milan, you can easily reach Milan Linate Airport (LIN) or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) for onward travel. Booking your return transport in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and the wine season.
Weather
The best cycling conditions are in spring and early autumn, when temperatures are mild and the hills are green or golden. April to May brings fresh landscapes with daytime temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F). September to October is ideal for vineyard views and wine season, averaging 18–24°C (64–75°F). June can be warm but manageable at 24–28°C (75–82°F).
July and August are hot and humid, often 30–35°C (86–95°F), making climbs harder. November to March is the offseason, with cooler temperatures 5–12°C (41–54°F) and a higher chance of rain, better suited for experienced riders only.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

