Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge)
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Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge)

4.7
·5k reviews·Bobbio, Italy

An ancient Roman bridge with a unique, undulating path, set in the stunning Val Trebbia, near the charming village of Bobbio.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, off-peak hours

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge)

Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge)

Best Time

Weekdays, off-peak hours

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient Roman bridge with a unique, undulating path, set in the stunning Val Trebbia, near the charming village of Bobbio.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"This old Roman bridge is worth a stop and walk over. It's one of those places you can almost feel the history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Narrow Road Alert

The final 10-15 min drive to Bobbio is narrow; drive cautiously, especially with oncoming traffic.

📸 Best Photo Spot

For the perfect shot of Ponte Gobbo, head to the opposite river bank.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge)

Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge)

Bobbio, Emilia-Romagna

An iconic Roman bridge with an undulating path, offering a tangible connection to centuries of history.

Val Trebbia Valley

Val Trebbia Valley

Surrounding Bobbio

Ernest Hemingway called this valley 'the most beautiful in the world.' Enjoy scenic drives and breathtaking landscapes.

Bobbio Village

Bobbio Village

Bobbio

Explore Italy's 'most beautiful village' (2019), steeped in history and rumored to be where Leonardo da Vinci finished the Mona Lisa.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid crowds and truly soak in the history. Consider the drive, as some roads are narrow and winding, especially the last 10-15 minutes into Bobbio.

Beyond the Bridge

While Ponte Gobbo is a highlight, the charming village of Bobbio, once named Italy's most beautiful, offers a rich historical experience and stunning valley views.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, off-peak hours
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Christmas Day
Why
Virtually empty, serene experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Where was this beautiful view?

🚗 Narrow Road Alert

The final 10-15 min drive to Bobbio is narrow; drive cautiously, especially with oncoming traffic. Reddit

📸 Best Photo Spot

For the perfect shot of Ponte Gobbo, head to the opposite river bank. Reddit

🏊 River Fun

The river below the bridge is great for swimming and exploring. Bring swimwear! Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, with shade available under the bridge arches. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Narrow Road Alert

The final 10-15 min drive to Bobbio is narrow; drive cautiously, especially with oncoming traffic. Reddit

📸 Best Photo Spot

For the perfect shot of Ponte Gobbo, head to the opposite river bank. Reddit

🏊 River Fun

The river below the bridge is great for swimming and exploring. Bring swimwear! Reddit

🧺 Picnic Paradise

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, with shade available under the bridge arches. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ponte Gobbo for its historical significance and unique architecture, offering a tangible link to the past. The surrounding Val Trebbia and the charming village of Bobbio add to the appeal, with many enjoying the river for swimming and picnicking. Some note the challenging, narrow roads leading to the village.

"Really cool historic bridge with a stunning view. We parked outside the town, just next to the bridge. There's nothing much around, but it was worth the hour drive for us."

Miak Ou

"Beautiful place, in fact the village has been awarded as the most beautiful village in Italy couple of years back. I fully agree with that! Since we went on Xmas day, there were literally nobody around. The drive through the hill (last 10-15mins of drive) is bit difficult since the width of the road is just enough for one vehicle. But with almost no traffic, seems to be ok.
I love to visit the tourist places when it is empty, and I am glad I picked the Xmas day for the visit. There is a restaurant near this bridge, but was closed.
The village also was very quite. Just my kind of place!"

Maheshwaran Jothi

"Not only have I been staying in Italy’s most beautiful village (2019).
Bobbio is located in the heart of Val Trebbia, a valley described by Ernest Hemingway as "the most beautiful in the world".
I discovered last night:
“Historians have speculated that Bobbio was the town in which Leonardo da Vinci completed the Mona Lisa. Carla Glori in December 2011 has published her book Enigma Leonardo:decifrazioni e scoperte where the background of the portrait has been identified as the landscape of Bobbio."

Rob Sullivan

What People Like

Historic Roman bridge
Unique undulating path
Beautiful river setting

What People Dislike

Narrow access roads

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ponte Gobbo is located in Bobbio, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. The nearest city is Piacenza. The drive to Bobbio involves scenic, but sometimes narrow, roads, especially in the final stretch. Exact coordinates are approximately 44.7725° N, 9.3869° E. Reddit

The last 10-15 minutes of the drive can be challenging as the road is narrow, often only wide enough for one vehicle. It's manageable, especially with less traffic, but requires careful driving. Reddit

Parking is available just outside the town, near the bridge itself. This makes it convenient to access the landmark. Reddit

While specific public transport details can vary, driving is generally the most common and recommended way to reach Bobbio and Ponte Gobbo due to its location in the Val Trebbia. Reddit

The route typically involves driving towards Piacenza and then following signs for Bobbio. Be prepared for winding roads as you enter the Val Trebbia. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Ponte Gobbo is a historical landmark and is freely accessible to the public. There are no admission fees. Reddit

Ponte Gobbo is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety. Reddit

The village of Bobbio is also freely accessible. You can wander through its streets and explore its historical sites without charge. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting Ponte Gobbo or Bobbio. However, always be respectful of the historical site and the local community. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the narrow roads and lack of lighting. Daylight hours offer the best and safest experience. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can walk across the historic bridge, admire its unique architecture, and enjoy the scenic views of the Trebbia River and the surrounding valley. It's a great spot for photography. Reddit

Yes, the river below Ponte Gobbo is a popular spot for swimming, especially during warmer months. Families often enjoy it. Reddit

This bridge dates back to Roman times and was rebuilt in the 17th century. Its irregular, undulating path is a distinctive feature. Reddit

For the most iconic photos, position yourself on the opposite bank of the river to capture the entire bridge with its unique arches. Reddit

Yes, there is some shade available under the arches of the bridge, which can be pleasant on a sunny day. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a restaurant located near the bridge, though it may be closed during off-season or holidays. Bobbio village offers more dining options. Reddit

In Bobbio, you can expect traditional Emilia-Romagna cuisine, known for its pasta dishes, cured meats, and local wines. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is highly recommended, especially if you plan to spend time by the river or want a more relaxed meal with a view. Reddit

While specific snack bars might be seasonal, the village of Bobbio will have cafes where you can grab coffee or a light bite. Reddit

Dining options are more concentrated in Bobbio village. The surrounding valley is more about natural beauty, so packing snacks or a picnic is a good idea. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, any time during daylight will provide good opportunities. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire bridge and its surroundings. A polarizing filter can enhance the river and sky. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and regulations before flying a drone in the area. Reddit

Its unique, uneven arches and its setting over the Trebbia River make it a visually striking landmark. The historical context also adds to its appeal. Reddit

Yes, you can walk on the bridge and access the riverbanks for various perspectives. Be mindful of safety when near the water. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ponte Gobbo and the surrounding Val Trebbia offer a fantastic family outing. The river below the bridge is a major draw for children, providing a safe and fun environment for swimming and exploring. Many families enjoy picnicking by the river, taking advantage of the shade under the bridge's arches. Reddit

While the drive to Bobbio can be a bit winding, the destination is well worth it. The historical significance of the bridge and the charm of Bobbio village can also engage older children. It's a great opportunity to combine a bit of history with outdoor fun in a beautiful natural setting. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those who love scenic drives, the journey to Ponte Gobbo through the Val Trebbia is a highlight. Ernest Hemingway's praise for the valley hints at its breathtaking beauty. Be prepared for narrow roads in the final approach to Bobbio, which adds an element of adventure to the drive. Reddit

Parking is conveniently located near the bridge, making it easy to start exploring. The drive itself, combined with the historical charm of the bridge and village, makes for a rewarding day trip or stopover for any road trip through Emilia-Romagna. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Legend of Ponte Gobbo

Ponte Gobbo, also known as the Devil's Bridge, is a testament to ancient engineering, with origins tracing back to Roman times. Although it has undergone reconstructions, most notably in the 17th century, its distinctive feature remains its irregular, undulating path, giving it a unique and almost whimsical appearance. This architectural quirk has fueled local legends and added to its mystique over the centuries. Walking across it offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the countless footsteps that have traversed its stones. Reddit

The bridge's historical significance is amplified by its location in Bobbio, a town steeped in history and natural beauty. The Val Trebbia, through which the river flows, was even lauded by Ernest Hemingway as 'the most beautiful in the world.' This setting enhances the experience of visiting Ponte Gobbo, making it more than just a bridge, but a gateway to a region rich in culture and scenic splendor. Reddit

Experiencing Bobbio and Val Trebbia

Bobbio itself is a gem, recognized as one of Italy's most beautiful villages. Its medieval streets, ancient abbey, and the rumored connection to Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa add layers of intrigue for visitors. The village offers a peaceful escape, especially if visited during quieter times, allowing for a more immersive experience of its charm. Reddit

The Val Trebbia provides a stunning natural backdrop. The river is not only picturesque but also a recreational hub. During warmer months, the clear waters are perfect for swimming and exploring aquatic life, making it a delightful spot for families. The shade provided by the bridge's arches offers a welcome respite on hot days, and the riverbanks are ideal for picnics, combining natural beauty with simple pleasures. Reddit

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