Attractions

Corippo – The Timeless Stone Village of Valle Verzasca

Perched high on the slopes of the Verzasca Valley in southern Switzerland, Corippo is one of the most enchanting and best-preserved traditional villages in Ticino. Once known as the smallest municipality in Switzerland, this stone hamlet has remained virtually unchanged for centuries — a living example of authentic alpine life.

Its maze of narrow alleys winds between grey-granite houses topped with slate roofs, all built in perfect harmony with the rugged mountain landscape. Because of its unique architecture and setting, Corippo has been declared a protected heritage site of national importance.

Visitors come here to slow down, breathe the pure mountain air, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Verzasca Valley.

How to get there
Corippo can be reached easily from the valley road or by public transport — take the bus to “Corippo, Bivio” and walk about 10–15 minutes uphill.
For a more scenic adventure, you can also hike from Mergoscia: a beautiful trail winds along the mountainside, offering breathtaking views of Lake Vogorno and the surrounding peaks before descending gently toward Corippo. The walk takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on pace, and is one of the most picturesque routes in the region.

Why visit Corippo:

• A perfectly preserved example of traditional Ticinese stone architecture.

• Peaceful atmosphere and panoramic mountain views.

• Opportunity to stay overnight in the Albergo Diffuso.

• Ideal hiking connection from Mergoscia, combining nature and history in one journey.

Monti di Lego – A Scenic Plateau Above the Verzasca Valley

Rising above the village of Mergoscia, the Monti di Lego form a peaceful mountain terrace offering spectacular views over Lake Maggiore, the Verzasca Valley, and the surrounding peaks. This quiet plateau is dotted with scattered houses, a small chapel, and the rustic Capanna Grotto Monti di Lego, where visitors can enjoy local Ticino dishes or spend the night in simple alpine accommodation.

Access
Monti di Lego is easily reached from Mergoscia via scenic walking trails, making it a perfect destination for a day hike or a longer adventure through the Ticino mountains. The plateau is also accessible from Cardada via family-friendly paths, but starting from Mergoscia allows for a gentle ascent with breathtaking panoramic views all along the route.

Why visit Monti di Lego:

• Stunning viewpoint over Lake Maggiore, Verzasca Valley, and surrounding peaks.

• The cozy Capanna Grotto, ideal for tasting local cuisine or spending the night.

• Perfect for hiking, nature walks, and photography.

• Easily accessible from Mergoscia — a convenient base in the Verzasca region.

Tip:
Combine the visit with a walk around the plateau to admire the alpine meadows and the charming stone houses, or plan a multi-day trek starting from Mergoscia to explore Cardada, Monti di Lego, and other nearby destinations.

Cardada – Where the Lake Meets the Mountains

Rising above Locarno, Cardada is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Ticino — a place where the calm waters of Lake Maggiore meet the grandeur of the Swiss Alps. Easily accessible yet surrounded by pure nature, it’s a destination that perfectly combines mountain adventure, panoramic views, and peace.

You can reach Cardada from Locarno via the funicular to Orselina and the cable car designed by the architect Mario Botta, which glides up to 1,340 meters. From there, hiking paths and a chairlift lead further to Cimetta (1,670 m), offering a spectacular 360° view — from the lowest point in Switzerland (Lake Maggiore) to the country’s highest (Dufourspitze in the Monte Rosa massif).

Arriving from Mergoscia
For hiking lovers, one of the most rewarding routes to Cardada begins in Mergoscia. The trail climbs steadily through forests and alpine meadows, revealing incredible views of Lake Vogorno and the Verzasca Valley before connecting with the Cardada plateau. It’s a scenic and peaceful hike that takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on pace — a perfect way to reach Cardada on foot and experience the changing landscapes of Ticino up close.

What to do in Cardada:

• Walk the Panorama Footbridge — a suspended platform that seems to float above the valley.

• Take the chairlift to Cimetta for breathtaking 360° alpine views.

• Enjoy local Ticinese cuisine at mountain restaurants and sun terraces.

• Explore family trails, paragliding, or gentle snowshoe routes in winter.

Why visit Cardada:

• Unique combination of lake, forest, and alpine panorama.

• Designed with architecture by Mario Botta.

• A perfect day trip from Locarno or a scenic hike from Mergoscia.

• Ideal for photography, relaxation, and outdoor exploration.

Ponte dei Salti – Lavertezzo: The Iconic Heart of Valle Verzasca

In the heart of Ticino’s Verzasca Valley, the double-arched Ponte dei Salti gracefully spans the emerald-green waters of the Verzasca River near the village of Lavertezzo. Built in the 17th century and restored in 1960, this medieval stone bridge is one of Switzerland’s most photographed landmarks — admired for its elegant curves, crystal-clear pools below, and the harmony between nature and architecture.

The turquoise Verzasca River flows beneath the bridge with remarkable clarity, winding between smooth granite rocks and creating perfect spots for swimming, sunbathing, or taking unforgettable photos. The entire area feels timeless — a place where nature, tradition, and tranquility meet.

Connection with Mergoscia
Located just across the mountainside, the village of Mergoscia marks the entrance to the Verzasca Valley and is beautifully connected to Lavertezzo by scenic hiking trails. The route between the two villages offers stunning views of Lake Vogorno, forest paths, and glimpses of rural Ticino life. Walking from Mergoscia to Lavertezzo takes around 3 to 4 hours, making it one of the most rewarding ways to discover the valley before reaching the famous Ponte dei Salti.

Why visit Lavertezzo & the Ponte dei Salti:

• The most iconic bridge in Ticino and a masterpiece of local stonework.

• The Verzasca River’s crystal-clear waters — ideal for a refreshing swim.

• Scenic hiking links with Mergoscia, offering panoramic mountain and lake views.

• Perfect balance of adventure, history, and peaceful alpine beauty.

This is the classic bungy jump; the ideal jump for first timers as well. You jump head first – with your feet and harness attached to the bungy cord and strapped into a full body safety harness.

Slip into the skin of the 007 agent: the key scene of the James Bond classic “Goldeneye” was shot exactly here on the Verzasca Dam. Experience this very special bungy jump together with your friends . More fun and action is hardly possible!

You will be briefed and carefully walked and talked through the whole jumping process. After completion of your Bungy jump you will receive a jump certificate.

Sonogno – The Soul of the Verzasca Valley

At the far end of the Verzasca Valley lies Sonogno, one of Ticino’s most authentic and picturesque mountain villages. Surrounded by towering peaks, waterfalls, and lush green forests, Sonogno offers a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and tranquility.

Its narrow stone streets wind between centuries-old houses built in traditional Ticinese granite, with wooden balconies covered in flowers. The village is home to a small ethnographic museum, local craft shops, and cozy restaurants serving typical dishes such as polenta, cheese, and cured meats.

A short walk from the center leads to the Froda Waterfall, one of the most beautiful natural sights in the valley — a crystal-clear cascade surrounded by rocks and forest paths.

Access
Sonogno is easily reachable by car or bus from Mergoscia and the lower Verzasca Valley, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or the final stop on your journey through this scenic region.

Why visit Sonogno:

• A peaceful and authentic mountain village at the end of the Verzasca Valley.

• Traditional stone houses and charming local atmosphere.

• The stunning Froda Waterfall and nearby walking paths.

• Easy access by bus or car from Mergoscia and other valley villages.

Tip:
Take time to enjoy a relaxed lunch in one of the village grottos, and stroll through the old lanes to soak in the calm rhythm of mountain life.