Colle di Tora sits on a hill overlooking the banks of the River Tora. Founded during the Roman era, it was called Collepiccolo until the late 19th century.
The construction of a hydroelectric plant in the 1930s produced the lakes Turano and Salto and transformed Colle di Tora into a delightful little town on a promontory extending to the river banks.
It is charming during the day, but even more so in the evening, when the lights are reflected in the smooth river water. The town blends in so perfectly with the surrounding woods and mountains that it has come to be called Little Switzerland. A wonderland in winter and lively in summer, it is the ideal place for any kind of sport or outdoor activity; hiking, scuba diving and fishing especially.
Picturesque corners can be enjoyed by taking a stroll through the historic centre and stopping especially at the Castle and the Church of San Lorenzo.
Attracting people to this area are both its natural environment and its monuments. Places of interest are Lake Turano and the Church of Santa Anatolia. The remains of a Roman sepulchre bearing an inscription dedicated to Caracalla can also be seen.
Those who enjoy hiking should take a trek along the Sentiero Italia, a 6,000 km-long trail, a stretch of which runs through the Nature Reserve of the Navegna and Cervia Mountains. Sparrowhawks and the golden eagle nest is the woods, canyons and creeks of this nature reserve.
The typical product of this town is a local bean and a Traditional Agricultural Product (PAT) called the “fagiolo a pisello”. It is grown exclusively in this area and used to make a delicious pasta and bean dish. Other delectable products are truffles, chestnuts, broad beans, sausages and polenta.
The traditional dishes are a flat bread cooked on charcoal and enjoyed with wild chicory; potato gnocchi with mutton sauce and pecorino, barbecued meat and fresh-water fish, especially the very tasty local “rosciola”.