Gazzola, in the province of Piacenza, is a municipality that embodies the essence of Val Trebbia and the nearby Val Luretta, areas famous for their imposing manors. Its name is inextricably linked to the fraction of Rivalta, dominated by the magnificent Castello di Rivalta (Rivalta Castle), a fortified complex in a perfect state of conservation and still inhabited. Gazzola represents the ideal destination for those who desire a lodging experience immersed in the historical charm of Emilia-Romagna, among medieval villages, hilly landscapes, and the renowned Strada dei Vini e dei Sapori dei Colli Piacentini (Wine and Flavors Road of the Piacenza Hills).

What our travel designer recommend to see: Castles and Villages

• Castello di Rivalta – Symbol of the namesake village, it is a sumptuous fortified complex, still a private residence and open for guided tours. It also houses an interesting Museum of Military Costume.
• Rivalta Village (Borgo di Rivalta) – Perfectly preserved, with its Church of San Martino, it offers a unique medieval atmosphere.
• Castello di Rezzanello – Another important manor located in the municipal territory, although privately owned and only viewable from the exterior (or during events).
• In the Surroundings – The proximity to other castles of the Duchy, such as the evocative Castello di Grazzano Visconti and the Rocca di Momeliano, makes Gazzola an optimal starting point for a tour of the Castelli del Ducato di Parma, Piacenza e Pontremoli.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Piacenza Cured Meats DOP (Salumi Piacentini DOP) – The province is famous for the triad: Coppa Piacentina DOP, Salame Piacentino DOP, and Pancetta Piacentina DOP.
• Anolini in Brodo – Typical stuffed pasta, especially for Christmas.
• Pisarei e Faso – Small gnocchi made of flour and breadcrumbs served with a bean sauce.
• Piacenza Hills Wines DOC (Vini dei Colli Piacentini DOC) – The wines of the area, such as Gutturnio DOC (lively or still red) and Ortrugo DOC (dry white), are the perfect accompaniment.

Experiences and Activities selected by the local experts

• Stay in a Castle/Village – The unique experience of sleeping in Rivalta village, a stone's throw from the manor, or in structures that evoke its style.
• Food and Wine Tastings – Routes along the Strada dei Vini e dei Sapori dei Colli Piacentini to visit wineries and taste local products.
• Themed Guided Tours – Tours focused on legends and ghost stories related to the castles in the area.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Gazzola
• Official Website of Rivalta Castle
• Castles of the Duchy of Parma, Piacenza and Pontremoli Circuit

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations by our travel designer

• Hotel Torre di San Martino (in Rivalta) – Charming structure or hotel located within the medieval village of Rivalta, for a historical immersion experience.
• Castello di Rezzanello (if offering accommodation) – For the possibility of staying in a unique atmosphere (check availability).
• Agriturismi and Country Residences – In the surrounding hills, they offer quiet luxury and Piacenza hospitality.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• Ristorante La Rocchetta (in Rivalta) – Traditional Piacenza cuisine in a historic setting.
• Locanda di Rezzanello – Excellent Emilian cuisine near another castle.
• Restaurants on the Wine Road (Strada dei Vini) – Trattorias and wineries offering tastings with local DOP cured meats and wines.