Castelliere Ruins Route (SvizzeraMobile 637)

From Verscio, the hiking trail covered with stone slabs winds up to the Sant'Anna oratory. The stepped path is flanked by gnarly chestnut trees, birches, and old beeches. Upon reaching the small chapel dating back to the 17th century, you can enjoy a charming view of Lake Maggiore, the Maggia delta, and the wild Centovalli.

After a short descent, there is one last arduous climb to the Castelliere. The prehistoric ruins, located on a promontory overlooking Tegna, are one of the most important archaeological sites in the Locarno region. The discovery of stone and flint tools indicates early human presence dating back to the Neolithic period (5500-2200 BC). Restoration work uncovered masonry remains and impressive finds from the Roman and Medieval periods. From here, the view of the two rivers Maggia and Melezza as well as Lake Maggiore is fantastic.

Making a wide curve, the route descends back into the valley. On the way down, you pass rustic and cozy grotti. The view extends to the impressive entrance of the valley. In the depths of the Ponte Brolla gorge, with its smoothed granite rocks and bizarre rock formations, the waters of the Maggia swirl turbulently. Hidden natural beaches and pools are ideal for cooling off before shortly reaching the Ponte Brolla station.

(Source: SvizzeraMobile)