Santa Margherita di Staffora: a mountain village in the Upper Staffora Valley

Nestled in the heart of the Upper Staffora Valley, Santa Margherita di Staffora is a charming village in the Oltrepo Pavese that preserves the authentic character of the Ligurian Apennines in Lombardy. Located just a few kilometres from Varzi, the village sits along the Staffora stream, surrounded by forests, meadows and panoramas that invite exploration and relaxation.

The municipal territory stretches to the border of four provinces — Pavia, Alessandria, Genova and Piacenza — making it a natural meeting point between Lombardy, Piedmont, Emilia and Liguria. This privileged position has for centuries facilitated the passage of ancient trade routes, including the celebrated Via del Sale (Salt Road), which connected the Po Valley to the Ligurian ports through the Apennine passes.

Pian del Poggio: the ski and mountain resort of the Oltrepo Pavese

Among the area's best-known localities stands Pian del Poggio, a renowned ski and tourist resort at over 1,300 metres above sea level. In winter it is the ideal destination for skiing and snow sports. In summer it offers panoramic trails and routes for hiking, mountain biking and trekking, set within an unspoilt mountain landscape.

Why include Santa Margherita di Staffora in your itinerary

Four compelling reasons to choose this Apennine village in the province of Pavia as your next travel destination:

NATURE              Mountain scenery ideal for walks, hikes and relaxation in the Staffora Valley. Forests, meadows and Apennine vistas right at your doorstep.

HISTORY              A medieval fief of the Malaspina family, as documented by a deed of 1164. A territory steeped in history along the ancient Apennine trade routes.

FLAVOURS          Part of the production area of Varzi DOP Salami, one of the upper valley's most celebrated gastronomic products with national recognition.

TRADITIONS       The Carnival of Cegni, a folk celebration held twice a year, draws visitors and locals alike into a fully immersive living tradition.

What to see and do in Santa Margherita di Staffora

The village and its hamlets: authentic mountain architecture

Strolling through Santa Margherita di Staffora means stepping into a timeless atmosphere: traditional stone houses, views across the valley slopes and numerous mountain hamlets such as Negruzzo and Pian del Poggio that bear witness to centuries of high-altitude life. The village is perfect for those seeking slow tourism, away from the crowds, in a setting of genuine Apennine beauty.

Food and wine: Varzi DOP Salami

A food stop is a must to taste Varzi DOP Salami: the flagship product of the upper Staffora Valley, made according to a traditional production specification using selected cuts of meat, simple aromatics and natural curing. Santa Margherita di Staffora is one of the 15 officially recognised municipalities in the certified production area — all the more reason to take home an authentic taste of the Oltrepo Pavese.

Folklore and tradition: the Carnival of Cegni

The hamlet of Cegni is renowned for its historic Carnival, celebrated twice a year: in winter and with its summer edition — the "White Carnival" on 16 August. The celebration opens with a traditional procession, continues with the folk dances of the "Four Provinces" region, and culminates in the theatrical enactment of the wedding between the "Ugly One" and the "Poor Woman". An immersive experience of living local folklore that brings together community and visitors alike.

How to get to Santa Margherita di Staffora

The village is easily reached by car from Voghera or Varzi by following the provincial road that runs along the Staffora stream through the upper valley. Given the mountain terrain and the layout of the area, the car is the most practical and recommended means of transport for reaching the village and its surrounding hamlets.

Practical tips for visiting Santa Margherita di Staffora

•             Best time to visit: spring, summer or early autumn for accessible trails and pleasant weather. In winter, Pian del Poggio is excellent for snow activities.

•             Gastronomy: to taste Varzi DOP Salami, check with local delis or producers — some welcome visitors by appointment.

•             Carnival of Cegni: if possible, plan your visit to coincide with the festival — an immersive experience of history and living community.

•             Footwear: bring hiking boots or sturdy comfortable shoes; the mountain hamlets and trails require sensible footwear.

•             Wider itinerary: combine your visit with a tour of the Oltrepo Pavese, discovering other mountain villages, the Via del Sale, and the area's natural landscapes and traditional flavours.

Santa Margherita di Staffora is the perfect destination for those in search of slow, authentic tourism in the Oltrepo Pavese: unspoilt nature, ancient traditions and genuine flavours combine into a complete and memorable experience. A village in the Lombard Apennines that captivates in every season — from the snow at Pian del Poggio to the lively Carnival of Cegni, from the taste of Varzi DOP Salami to the sweeping views of the Upper Staffora Valley