Giro delle Rovine del Castelliere (SvizzeraMobile 637)

From Verscio, the flagstone trail winds its way up to the Oratorio Sant'Anna. The steep path with plenty of steps is lined with gnarled chestnut trees, birch trees and old beech trees. When you arrive at the tiny 17th-century chapel, enjoy magnificent views over Lake Maggiore, the Maggia delta and the wild Centovalli.

After a short descent, a final strenuous climb takes you to the Castelliere. The prehistoric ruins, perched on a rocky plateau above the village of Tegna, are one of the most interesting archaeological sites of the Locarnese region. Recovered stone and pebble tools indicate the first human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period (5500-2200 BC). Restoration work revealed the remains of walls and impressive finds from the Roman era and the Middle Ages. The views of the Maggia and Melezza rivers and Lake Maggiore are fantastic.

The route continues down the valley in a sweeping loop. On the way down, you pass rustici and cosy grotti. The view extends over the impressive valley entrance. Deep down in the Orrido di Ponte Brolla gorge, with its finely polished granite stones and bizarre rock formations, the Maggia River rushes by. Small bays and hidden natural pools are lovely places to cool off before you reach Ponte Brolla railway station soon after.

(Source: SwitzerlandMobility)