- Active & Green
Casteggio Big Bench #163
On the hill that is part of the Ballabio winery estates in Oltrepò Pavese
The bench, called "FARFALLA" (Butterfly), gets its name from the vineyard that hosts it, which resembles a butterfly with its wings spread.
The view from the Big Bench stretches from the forest, across the vineyards, all the way to the small village of San Biagio, and extends to the plains. The surrounding forest is rich with paths, all easily accessible, featuring centuries-old trees and wildlife.
Access is very simple, with parking available just a few meters away for families with small children, expectant mothers, disabled individuals, and the elderly. For those wishing to immerse themselves in nature, there are several routes: from the center of the village (about 5 km), from the Crotesi district, or along the ancient dirt road for just under two kilometers, or through the 3 km green cycle-pedestrian route.
Casteggio, the ancient Clastidium, is a town of Roman origin, where in 222 A.D. a war took place to define the boundaries of the Roman Empire. The upper part of the town, known as "Pistornile," is the most historic, where the remains of Roman buildings are still visible.
The M.A.C. Museum, rich in historical artifacts, is certainly worth a visit. In the town center, it's enjoyable to wander, especially on Wednesdays and Sundays when the stalls bring the historic market to life.
Many local businesses, such as bars, pastry shops, and tea rooms, offer pleasant places for breakfast, aperitifs, or a restorative break. Agritourisms and wineries welcome visitors for delightful food and wine tours.
ACTIVITIES WHERE YOU CAN FIND STAMPS AND PASSPORTS:
IL PIANE DI ROSA S.A.S. (Grocery, B&B, Winery)
Via Emilia, 98 – Casteggio (Pavia) PV | Tel: 0383 804825 - 340 4159235 | Open Tuesday to Saturday 7:30-14:00, 16:00-20:00. Sunday 7:30-13:00. Closed on Monday.
DE FILIPPI CAFE’
Via Roma, 18 – Casteggio (Pavia) PV | Tel: 340.5731604- 331.1223455 | Open Monday to Friday 6:00-21:00, Saturday and Sunday 7:00-23:00.
PASTICCERIA IDEAL
Via Emilia, 9 – Casteggio (Pavia) | Tel: 0383 82398 | Open Tuesday to Saturday 7:00-12:30, 14:30-19:30. Sunday 7:00-13:30. Closed on Monday.
PASTICCERIA LA DOLCE VITA
Via Anselmi, 2 – Casteggio (PV) | Tel: 0383 803707 | Open Tuesday to Sunday 7:00-12:30, 15:30-19:00. Monday 7:00-12:30, closed in the afternoon.
BAR IL PONTE
Piazza Dante, 12 – Casteggio (Pavia) | Tel: 0383 1938226 | Open every day 7:00-22:00. Closed on Thursday.
PANETTERIA VAI
Piazza Cavour, 7 – Casteggio (Pavia) | Tel: 366 5318056 | Open Tuesday to Saturday 6:30-13:00, 16:30-19:30. Monday and Sunday 6:30-13:00. Closed on Monday and Sunday.
LE TORTE DI NATALI - Cake Design
Via Manzoni 11/13 – Casteggio (Pavia) | Tel. 329.5382455 | Hours: Monday to Saturday 8:00-14:00.
LÈ CREM GELATERIA
Via Torino | 27045 Casteggio (PV) | Tel. 366.5325151 | Open every day 11:00-23:00.
Other links
FacebookBig Bench Community Project