On Saturday, September 5th, 2026, the Oltrepò Pavese reveals itself on foot, among the hills of Cecima and San Ponzo di Semola. Volo di Rondine is organizing two photography treks to discover one of the area's most striking corners: Guardamonte, with its brand-new suspension bridge, the Caves of San Ponzo tucked inside a chestnut grove, and a network of trails that are partly new, opening in preview just for this date. The two hikes, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, are designed for families, amateur photographers and walkers of every level: those looking for a longer challenge can join both in the same day, at a discounted combined rate.

The morning trek: new trails on Guardamonte and the suspension bridge

When: Saturday, September 5th, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM

Meeting point: Ca del Monte Agriturismo car park, Cecima (PV)

Difficulty: easy, suitable for everyone

Length: about 6 km

Elevation gain: about 200 metres

The big news for the 2026 edition lies in the route itself: for this date, the trail has been upgraded into a loop, allowing hikers to cover additional newly opened paths. The group will cross the brand-new suspension bridge, a thrilling yet safe experience, perfect for photos suspended over the valley, and will explore the freshly inaugurated trails in preview, taking in views of the valley never seen before. Along the way, expect a hunt for the ancient fossils that tell the geological story of these lands, a true photographic safari among rare wildflowers, and a search for the tracks left by the forest's wild animals - with a bit of luck, even those of a wolf.

The afternoon trek: the Caves of San Ponzo and the suspension bridge

When: Saturday, September 5th, 2026, from 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Meeting point: meadow/car park in the main square of San Ponzo di Semola

Difficulty: level E - hiking (escursionistico), suitable for everyone

The route runs almost entirely through the woods, with a single steep climb of about 20 metres halfway through.

Length: about 7 km

Elevation gain: about 300 metres

This hike also takes the group across the new suspension bridge and along the newly opened trails, before reaching the evocative Caves of San Ponzo, set within a beautiful chestnut grove.

One day, two experiences: the combined package

Those who want to make the most of the whole day can join both treks, morning and afternoon, at a discounted rate. Once the morning hike is over, the afternoon meeting point is just a 10-minute drive away - a detail designed for anyone who wants to move straight from one outing to the next. For the fittest hikers, it's a great opportunity to get to know the entire area - San Ponzo, the Caves, the suspension bridge and Guardamonte - in a single day.

Prices and practical information

Adults: 15 euros (including Volo di Rondine membership card)

Existing members: 12 euros

Children under 12: 10 euros

Dogs are welcome. Minors must be accompanied and remain under their parents' full responsibility. Participants are advised to bring water, hiking shoes - essential for the trails and the suspension bridge - and plenty of curiosity; trekking poles are optional for the afternoon hike.

Bookings

Booking is required and places are limited. For information and to secure a spot, contact Marco at 331 7697861, also available on WhatsApp, or write to info@volodirondine.com.

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