12 Nov Torrechiara: the area
Torrechiara represents an evocative and spectacular introduction to the beauties of the Langhirano area and the Eastern Parma Apennines. The mild, dry breeze that caresses this valley throughout the year is excellent for curing Parma Ham, and also for providing visitors with idyllic hours outdoors, as they discover the perfectly preserved scenery and its great variety of interesting natural attractions. The hilly area, with its gentle slopes embroidered with vineyards, offers gorgeous views over the valley and the stunning Torrechiara Castle.
The Parma River runs through the valley, marking about 20 kilometres of the western boundary of the municipal area. With its rich riparian vegetation it is an interesting destination for walks, nature excursions and horseback riding.
The mountainous area is rich in mixed oak coppice stands, spontaneous nuclei of pure stands of Scots pine on Mount Bosso, and broadleaf woodland on Mount Sporno. In the higher altitude area, from 600 m to the 1090 m of Mount Corno, the beautiful Cozzano Pinewood – 150 hectares of trees, predominantly Austrian black pines, interspersed with large grassy areas – is an area of particular interest.
This is a land that offers a wealth of natural attractions to discover and enjoy, as well as recreational and sporting opportunities to meet all expectations: sports facilities, swimming pools, horse riding stables and miles of new trails for horseback, trekking and mountain bike excursions of different difficulty levels.
After visiting Torrechiara Castle, the Parma Ham Museum, and other cultural attractions, and after the fabulous food and wine experiences, the area can offer guests a simple and invigorating walk along age-old paths between small villages immersed in nature, enriched by reminders of local tradition: wayside shrines, fountains, parish churches and the ruins of old castles.
