Attractions and Places To See around Borgo Val Di Taro - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Borgo Val Di Taro, also known as Borgotaro, is a town located in the Parma Apennines, at the intersection of Emilia Romagna, Tuscany, and Liguria. This area is characterized by its rich historical center, remnants of an ancient castle, and its position along the Via Francigena. The surrounding natural landscape includes the Taro Valley, the Oasi dei Ghirardi Regional Nature Reserve, and the Apennine mountains. It is also recognized for its PGI-certified porcino mushrooms and inclusion in the Slow Cities circuit.
Best attractions and places to see around Borgo Val Di Taro
- The most popular attractions is Passo della Cisa, a mountain pass that is a historic link between the Po Valley and the sea. It separates the Ligurian Apennines from the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines at an altitude of about 1,041 m.
- Another must-see spot is Monte Gottero Summit, a summit rising to 1639 m above sea level. Visitors can expect 360-degree views from the Tuscan-Emilian ridge to the Apuan Alps and the Ligurian Riviera.
- Visitors also love Pontremoli Cathedral (Co-Cathedral of Saint Mary of the People), a religious building in the northernmost town of Tuscany. This cathedral is part of Pontremoli's artistic and monumental heritage, a town recognized as a stop on the Via Francigena.
- Borgo Val Di Taro is known for its historical sites, natural reserves, and cultural landmarks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval architecture to scenic mountain views and river activities.
- The attractions around Borgo Val Di Taro are appreciated by the komoot community. More than 270 upvotes and over 140 photos highlight the appeal of these 27 places to see.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Passo della Cisa
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Pontremoli Cathedral (Co-Cathedral of Saint Mary of the People)
Highlight • Religious Site
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Monte Gottero Summit
Highlight • Summit
From the top of Monte Gottero the view sweeps 360 degrees, from the Tuscan-Emilian ridge to the Apuan Alps, on the Tuscan coast from Piombino to the Gulf of La Spezia, on the Tuscan archipelago and the tip of Corsica, on the Ligurian Riviera up to the border with France, from the Gino Maritime Alps to the Alps on the border between Valle D'Aosta, Piedmont and Lombardy.
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Ponte della Cresa
Highlight • Bridge
The bridge is located along the Verde River at Porta San Francesco. Under the arch of this bridge, the characteristic fire of San Geminiano takes place on January 31.
Ponte della Cresa is considered by many to be the true symbol of the city of Pontremoli.
It is also worth noting that the name Pontremoli is derived from the Latin 'Pons Tremulus', meaning 'unsafe bridge'. This was a term used to describe the original conurbation of the city.
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Historic Center of Pontremoli
Highlight • Historical Site
You will find a beautiful church on the central square of the city. Next door is the city's most famous coffee shop, the Caffè Pasticceria Aichta.
Do you follow the signs towards the castle? Then you take a beautiful walk to the Castle of Piagnaro. Here is the museum of the Stele statues, where you can see many special statues.
Walk around the old center and you will immediately notice: there are many bridges here. Pontremoli literally means shaking bridge.
Pontremoli has many beautiful buildings and the best preserved is perhaps the Villa Dosi Delfini. This Villa is a true work of art in Baroque style.
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Tips from the Community
The small sacred monument we encounter on Monte Gottero is perhaps the perfect place for a brief moment of reflection. A few years ago, Christiane Völkel commented on the wonderfully fitting sentence by the Italian poet Francesco Petrarch (who lived in the 14th century), "Everywhere one has heaven above oneself," as follows: "What is the use of prayer? This question moves me (...) I have found for myself the answer and the certainty that when I pray I am with the Lord, or rather, that when I pray he is often noticeably closer to me than usual. Thus, I retain the possibility of pouring out my heart to him (...) This intimacy with him makes me believe in him."
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small village but very suggestive and picturesque to pass by bicycle
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The Ponte della Cresa is a stone bridge built in the 14th century and despite the frequent flooding of the Verde river, it has maintained its original structure to this day. The bridge connects the new neighborhoods with the historic center. The bridge is located along the Verde river near Porta San Francesco. Under the arch of this bridge, on January 31, the characteristic fire of San Geminiano takes place. The Ponte della Cresa is considered by many to be the true symbol of the city of Pontremoli. It is also interesting to note that the name Pontremoli derives from the Latin 'Pons Tremulus', which means 'unsafe bridge'. This was a term used to describe the original conurbation of the city.
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Entrance to Pontremoli from Porta San Francesco
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Beautiful path along the river to enjoy nature and relax
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Campanone is a term used in Pontremoli to refer to a medieval tower, the only remaining part of a medieval fortress called Fortezza di Cazzaguerra. The tower was built in 1322. Its purpose was to keep the Guelph and Ghibelline factions of the city separated. The central tower was equipped from the beginning with a bell to warn the citizens of possible dangers. Only later was the tower raised and the actual bell tower built.
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Beautiful stone bridge. Great photo opportunity.
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Ponte della Cresa is a stone bridge built in the 14th century and despite frequent flooding from the Verde River, it has retained its original structure to this day. The bridge connects the new neighborhoods with the historic center. The bridge is located along the Verde River at Porta San Francesco. Under the arch of this bridge, the characteristic fire of San Geminiano takes place on January 31. Ponte della Cresa is considered by many to be the true symbol of the city of Pontremoli. It is also worth noting that the name Pontremoli is derived from the Latin 'Pons Tremulus', meaning 'unsafe bridge'. This was a term used to describe the original conurbation of the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Borgo Val di Taro?
Borgo Val di Taro offers a rich historical experience. You can wander through the medieval village's narrow streets, admire the ancient architecture, and see remnants of its ancient castle. Key sites include the Romanesque Pontremoli Cathedral (Co-Cathedral of Saint Mary of the People), the 15th-century Church of San Domenico with its precious Madonna del Rosario, and the Palazzo Comunale, a 14th-century Lombard Gothic structure. The town is also a stop along the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage route.
Are there any natural reserves or scenic viewpoints worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Monte Gottero Summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views stretching from the Tuscan-Emilian ridge to the Apuan Alps and the Ligurian Riviera. For nature lovers, the Oasi dei Ghirardi (WWF Oasis/Regional Nature Reserve) is a significant natural attraction, ideal for birdwatching and observing diverse plant species and unique calanchi (rock erosions).
What outdoor activities are available around Borgo Val di Taro?
The region is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy cycling along the easy, over 20 km long bike path that runs along the Taro River. The Taro River also offers opportunities for wild swimming during warm summer days. For more challenging adventures, the Passo della Cisa is a popular destination for cyclists, known for its gentle slopes and wide curves. The surrounding Apennines provide picturesque landscapes for walks and exploring local fauna.
Where can I find routes for cycling or gravel biking near Borgo Val di Taro?
There are numerous routes for various cycling disciplines. For road cycling, you can find routes like the 'Borgo Val di Taro to Bonassola – bike rides to the Italian coast' or loops around Bocco Pass. Gravel biking options include the 'Alta Via dei Monti Liguri – Passo Alpicella loop'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Borgo Val Di Taro, Gravel biking around Borgo Val Di Taro, and Road Cycling Routes around Borgo Val Di Taro guide pages.
What is the best time of year to visit Borgo Val di Taro for outdoor activities?
The gentle hills and mountains around Borgo Val di Taro offer picturesque green landscapes in spring and summer, making these seasons perfect for walks, cycling, and exploring the local fauna. The Taro River is also popular for swimming during warm summer days.
Are there any unique local products or culinary experiences in Borgo Val di Taro?
Borgo Val di Taro is particularly famous for its PGI-certified porcino mushrooms, a source of local gastronomic pride. You can learn more at the Porcino Mushroom Museum. Beyond mushrooms, the area is celebrated for its culinary offerings, including herb pie made with chard and Parmesan cheese, and local craft beers. Gastronomic tours like 'GustaBorgo' are available to explore these delicacies.
What is the significance of Pontremoli, which is mentioned as a nearby attraction?
Pontremoli, often referred to as the 'shaking bridge' town, is the northernmost town in Tuscany and a small jewel of artistic and monumental heritage. Its Historic Center of Pontremoli features medieval bridges like the Ponte della Cresa, ancient churches, and the Castle of Piagnaro, which houses the Museum of Stele statues. It's also a significant stop on the Via Francigena pilgrimage route.
Is Borgo Val di Taro considered a 'Slow City'?
Yes, Borgo Val di Taro is recognized for its high quality of life and has been included in the Slow Cities (Cittaslow) circuit. This designation highlights its commitment to preserving local traditions, promoting sustainable living, and offering a relaxed pace of life.
What is the MutaMenti Project?
The MutaMenti Project has transformed the village and surrounding small towns into an open-air museum itinerary. This initiative features a series of murals created by local artists, adding a contemporary artistic layer to the historic environment and offering a unique cultural walk.
Can I find historical buildings like palaces or churches in the area?
Yes, the area is rich in historical architecture. Besides the Pontremoli Cathedral (Co-Cathedral of Saint Mary of the People), you can visit the Church of Sant'Antonino, a Romanesque church from the early 1200s, and the Church of San Domenico, home to the Madonna del Rosario statue. Palazzo Boveri, where Queen Elisabetta Farnese once resided, also preserves beautiful stucco friezes from 1714.
What makes Borgo Val di Taro a strategic location?
Borgo Val di Taro's location is strategic as it's nestled at the crossroads of Emilia Romagna, Tuscany, and Liguria. This position makes it a cultural, naturalistic, and gastronomic hub, offering easy access to diverse landscapes and traditions from three different Italian regions.
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