Gordevio - Capanna Cimetta

Locarno, the lowest point on the route (200 metres). From Capanna de la Cimetta, follow the path towards Alpe de Cardada and then Cardada. Take the path behind the Ristorante Colmanicchio and follow the signs for San Bernardo. Continue towards Orselina. The long path through the woods passes the 15th-century Renaissance-style convent of Madonna del Sasso, then wide steps run alongside the funicular railway and descend to the old town of Locarno. This lively town in Ticino, on the shores of Lake Maggiore, hosts the International Film Festival in the first half of August. This short stage offers the opportunity to visit the town and enjoy Lake Maggiore (swimming, boat trips, etc.).Markings: White-Red-White.

Sights: The Verzasca dam, the village of Corripo and the Ponte dei Salti. From the centre of Locarno, head for the church in Brione sul Minusio. Follow the road towards Mergoscia for 50 metres and, at a small square on the left, take the steps leading to a small chapel. Follow the signs for Viona and Monti di Lego. This small peak offers a magnificent view of Lake Maggiore. Descend towards the village of Mergoscia, where you will see Lago di Vogorno and the Verzasca Dam, made famous by the James Bond film "Golden Eye". Continue towards Corripo, where a viewpoint overlooks the Verzasca and the village of Vogorno. The trail then runs alongside the Verzasca to Lavertezzo, a popular destination thanks to its famous old Roman bridge (Ponte dei Salti).Markings: White-Red-White.

Magnificent clear green pools in the Verzasca. At Lavertezzo, follow the path on the right bank of the Verzasca and cross the Ponte di Salti. The path climbs gently along the crystal-clear waters of the Verzasca to Ganne. Cross the Ganne bridge and follow the river on its bank to Alnasca, Gerra and finally Frasco. Just opposite the church in Frasco, you will find information about the Val d'Efra facilities. The trail, which starts with steps, is always well marked. The climb is gradual, with numerous waterfalls and green pools along the way. At Alpe dell'Efra, there are two possible routes, one leading directly to the Capanna, the other making a short detour via Lago d'Efra, which is well worth the detour. Please note that the Capanna d'Efra is unmanned: there is no catering (bring your evening meal with you).Markings: White-Red-White].

This first stage begins on the left bank of Lake Maggiore, shortly after the Ticino River flows into the lake. From Vira to Alpe di Neggia, gradually gaining altitude, you will discover the towns of Locarno and Ascona, separated by the Maggia River delta. In the distance, you will see the imposing dam on the Verzasca River, made famous by the James Bond film "Goldeneye". At Alpe di Neggia, far from the hustle and bustle of the lake, you will appreciate this very relaxing place.

A magnificent route through the Swiss canton of Ticino and the Italian province of Lombardy. Over the course of eight days, you will discover three lakes and three different atmospheres. You will climb several peaks overlooking these lakes. The ridges you will walk along often form the geographical border between Switzerland and Italy.

Descent to Val Maggia. The Maggia flows into Lake Maggiore between Ascona and Locarno. From Capanna Alzasca, follow the direction of Cevio. At Corte di Fondo, take the path on the right that descends to Cascata del Soladino and then Val Maggia. The trail continues on the right bank of the Maggia and passes through Lodano and Moghegno opposite the village of Maggia. On leaving Moghegno, cross the Maggia and continue on the left bank through Ronchini and finally Gordevio.Markings: White-Red-White.

During this second stage, you will climb the majestic Monte Tamaro. From the summit, heading west to north, you will discover the Monte Rosa massif in the distance, as well as both ends of Lake Maggiore. To the south, Lake Lugano comes into view. At Capanna Tamaro, you can admire the magnificent ridge stretching from Monte Tamaro to Menèra, topped by a huge antenna.

More than 2,000 metres of descent are on the agenda for the day. The trail to Passo Gagnone starts just behind the Capanna d'Efra. This is the only climb of the day. From the pass, the long descent begins, first into Val Gagnone and then to Bedra. The trail then enters the woods and overlooks the torrent. A few houses along the way in Marzoch, Gallina and Monastei allow you to check your position on the map. The path continues along the torrent to Bacino Val d'Ambra. Continue downhill to reach the village of Personico. Then follow the signs for Pollegio/Biasca to the bridge that crosses the Ticino river. Continue along the path to an underpass beneath the motorway to finally enter the village of Pollegio.Markings: GR® White-Red-White. Via Alpina Red R87.