Oltressenda Alta
Welcome to Oltressenda Alta!
Welcome to Oltressenda Alta, a small scattered municipality located in the beautiful province of Bergamo, in Lombardy. With only 145 inhabitants and two hamlets, Nasolino and Valzurio, this municipality is a true hidden gem in the valleys of the Ogna stream, a tributary of the Val Seriana. We are happy to share with you some information about our territory.
Physical geography
The municipal territory of Oltressenda Alta is characterized by a long strip that extends perpendicularly to the Seriana valley, on the left orographic side, following the Valzurio crossed by the Ogna stream. With an altitude variation ranging from about 600 meters above sea level of the lower portion, to 2,427 meters of the summit of Mount Ferrante, the administrative boundary of the municipality mostly follows natural limits.
To the north, the ridge that leads to Mount Ferrante delimits the municipality of Oltressenda Alta from Vilminore di Scalve and the Scalve valley. After the summit of the mountain, the boundaries descend along the course of the Ogna stream, to the left of which is the territory of Rovetta. The stream marks the border with Rovetta first and Villa d'Ogna later, except for a small appendix that climbs up the opposite side of the valley to the Rasga locality, near Mount Blum. The lower portion of the territory extends to the San Lorenzo district, in the municipality of Villa d'Ogna.
Watercourses and small lakes
Oltressenda Alta is crossed by numerous watercourses, but the main one is the Ogna, a left tributary of the Serio. The stream develops in the Valzurio and collects the waters of numerous small streams, formed by excess water from the surrounding foothills. Along its course, just downstream of the village of Valzurio, there are the so-called "blue lakes", small lakes whose intense color varies depending on the seasons and atmospheric conditions.
Origins of the name
The name "Oltressenda Alta" derives from the fact that the municipality is "beyond the path", that is, beyond the historic connecting road that runs longitudinally through the villages on the left side of the Val Seriana, in the territory of Villa d'Ogna.
What to see and do
Despite its small size, Oltressenda Alta offers many opportunities for real tourism and nature lovers. The municipal territory, located within the Orobie Park, is an area of great natural interest. Trekking and hiking enthusiasts will find here many routes, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Among the places to visit we recommend the church of Madonna del Sass (Nasolino), the chapel of San Rocco (Valzurio) and the characteristic cascading fountain near the Chapel of San Giovanni in the hamlet of Valzurio.
Events and traditions
As in many mountain realities, the calendar of events in Oltressenda Alta is rich in themed appointments. Among the most anticipated events, we mention the Sagra de la Brusà, the festival that celebrates autumn with typical and traditional dishes of the territory, and the Feast of San Rocco, the traditional procession held every year in the hamlet of Valzurio.
How to get there
Oltressenda Alta is about 37 kilometers northeast of the center of Bergamo. The municipality can be reached by car along the state road 42 of Tonale and Mendola towards Vilminore di Scalve. After passing the village of Villa d'Ogna, continue on SP36 following the signs for Oltressenda Alta and Valzurio. For those who prefer public transport, bus line 2 of the SAB company connects Bergamo with Oltressenda Alta.
Conclusion
Oltressenda Alta is a perfect destination for a day trip or a vacation to discover the hidden treasures of the Bergamo Alps. We promise that our municipality will amaze you with the beauty of its natural landscapes and its authentic and relaxing atmosphere. Come and visit us and discover the charm of one of the most beautiful municipalities in the province of Bergamo. We are waiting for you!
