Predosa: Discover the Orba, Nature and Culture

Predosa combines the Torrente Orba with protected riparian forests, historical traces, and enjoyable traditions. Riverbanks, Retorto, castle history, and Mantovana give the town distinct facets. Visitors can plan nature observation, local history, and regional cuisine separately in Predosa.

The Orba and Riparian Forests around Predosa

The Torrente Orba is considered Predosa’s main local attraction. The Riserva naturale del Torrente Orba comprises two separate sections of the river: one upstream from the town of Predosa and another between Borgo Retorto and Casalcermelli. When planning a walk, you can therefore choose between the area upstream from the town and the section between Retorto and Casalcermelli.

The nature reserve protects remaining sections of intact riparian forest. These riparian forests are home to foxes, badgers, martens, weasels, hares, and roe deer. They also contain a wild boar population originating from the Apennines. The riparian forests along the Orba are therefore also habitats for these animal species.

Retorto is a hamlet of Predosa on the banks of the Torrente Orba.

Castle and History in Predosa and Retorto

A castle in Predosa has been documented since 16 May 1567. The castle made Predosa a Milanese outpost. It stood in opposition to the Monferrato presence on one side and the Genoese presence on the other.

In the hamlet of Retorto, the Church of San Bartolomeo was built in 1827. In addition to its location on the Orba, the hamlet therefore also has its own date of ecclesiastical significance.

Routes along the Orba: on Foot, by Bicycle or Canoe

The nature reserve’s paths can be explored on foot. Along the banks of the Torrente Orba, you can also travel on foot or by bicycle from the old castle masonry to the characteristic Borgo Retorto. Those travelling on land can choose between the nature reserve’s paths and the riverside route from the castle masonry to Borgo Retorto. These two points give the route a clear historical framework.

Canoeing is possible along the watercourse in the surroundings of the Torrente Orba. On foot, by bicycle, or in a canoe, you can explore the landscape from different perspectives in motion.

Wine and Summer Traditions in Mantovana

The Cantina Sociale di Mantovana offers tastings of fine wines made from grapes grown in the hill areas. Predosa’s culinary scene therefore includes a wine selection directly connected with cultivation in the hills.

Mantovana also hosts the traditional summer Sagra del bollito misto e bagnet. Mantovana’s culinary side therefore encompasses both wine and a traditional summer festival.

More Places for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to consider additional destinations in the same travel area alongside Predosa, you can continue your orientation with San Cristoforo, Cuccaro Monferrato, Pozzolo Formigaro, Corteranzo, Ottiglio, Pietra Marazzi, Strevi, and Figino.

For the higher-level travel overview: Alessandria.