Idyllically nestled in an imposing mountainscape, the Valle Verzasca (Verzasca valley) is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and relaxing in nature. Forming the heart of the valley is the emerald-green Verzasca river with its polished gorges and deep pools made for summer bathing. Not without reason the Verzasca valley is also called the green heart of Ticino. The Verzasca valley is popular for its beauty, its unspoilt nature and its many opportunities for exploration. Arguably, nowhere else in the world is there a more spectacular valley entrance than that of this valley: it consists of the 220 metre high dam wall made famous by the jump in the James Bond film “GoldenEye”. In 2022, the "Red Bull Dual Ascent" took place for the first time, with athletes from all over the world climbing up the dizzying dam wall in teams of two.
Brione Verzasca is home to an extensive bouldering area that’s especially popular in spring and autumn. The "Alta Verzasca Bike" mountain bike tour (SwitzerlandMobility 399) also starts here and leads to Sonogno. The Verzasca is also particularly popular with families: it offers a Myth Trail in Gerra, the huge natural marble runs “BoBosco” with its 23 playing stations, barbecue spots and lovely bathing opportunities, i.e., everything you need to keep the family happy. A Verzasca classic is the Sentierone (SwitzerlandMobility74), which leads through the entire valley from Sonogno to Locarno at the lake. This wonderful hiking trail can be done on foot in several stages.
The most photographed object in the valley is probably the arched Ponte dei Salti in Lavertezzo. This bridge and the clear emerald-green river that flows beneath it are real eye-catchers. The perfect subject for a souvenir photo.
Sonogno, the last village of the Verzasca valley, is as enchanting as it is peaceful, with houses decorated with flowers, cobbled streets and the characteristic village square where people meet for a chat. Grotti and restaurants serve traditional dishes, local specialities can be bought in the shops, and the House of Wool (Casa della lana) and museum (Museo di Val Verzasca) bear witness to history and traditions, some of which continue to this day.
Like the rest of the valley, Sonogno is a springboard for many outings. A valley that’s devoted to nature. Traditional yet innovative. This is how the smallest municipality in Switzerland until 2020, Corippo, became an "Albergo Diffuso", which means dispersed hotel. It consists of various renovated houses that make up the hotel's rooms, a reception and a renowned public restaurant.
The most convenient way to explore the Verzasca valley is by PostBus, which is included in the Ticino Ticket. This ‘hop-on hop-off’ service also benefits from marvellous views.