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  • RIFUGIO 3A | Val Formazza

    Il rifugio ha una struttura in muratura di pietrame, a due piani; è dotato di acqua corrente interna, servizi igienici interni, docce calde, ed impianto di riscaldamento. Dispone di 90 posti letto, disposti in camerette ed in camerate comuni. In inverno è disponibile un ampio locale invernale nella mansarda dell'edificio retrostante il rifugio, accessibile attraverso una scaletta metallica. Il locale è fornito di circa 20 posti letto con materassi e coperte. TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza 3A REFUGE GENERAL INFORMATIONS Business Name: Rifugio 3A Business Category: Alpine Hut Full Address: Alta Valle, Località Sabbioni Opening and Closing Hours (including seasonal variations): Open July and August VISIT THE WEBSITE Shelter run by volunteers from Operation Mato Grosso Proceeds from its operation are donated to missions in Latin America. CONTACTS Phone number: +393791231009 (when open) Email: rifugioclaudioebruno@yahoo.it Website: www.rifugi-omg-formazza.it Website: http://www.rifugi-omg.org CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE OMG REFUGES

  • CIASPOLATE | Val Formazza

    Vivere la montagna in inverno è un’esperienza unica, e con le ciaspole puoi esplorarla in modo rilassato e immerso nella natura. Questa attività consente anche a chi non scia di godere delle bellezze delle altezze innevate, camminando tra i paesaggi silenziosi e mozzafiato della Val Formazza. Un modo perfetto per vivere la montagna con lentezza e rispetto per l’ambiente. TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza SNOWSHOEING A WALK IN THE SNOW Living the mountain experience in winter is a matter of mindset, but above all, it's about snowshoes! Snowshoeing is the ideal activity for those who wish to discover the beauty of snow-covered peaks without needing special equipment like skis. Walking on snow with snowshoes allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the alpine landscapes, completely immersing yourself in the magical and silent atmosphere of Val Formazza. AN ANCIENT TRADITION The term "ciaspole" comes from the dialect of Val di Non in Trentino, but it gained popularity thanks to events like the famous race "La Ciaspolada." Snowshoes have a millennia-old history, dating back about 6,000 years, when they were used by peoples in Asia, Canada, and North America to move across snowy environments. Even today, snowshoes are a fundamental tool for exploring deep snow without the risk of sinking. A FASCINATING HISTORY From prehistoric hunters to 19th-century explorers, snowshoes have been used in all cold regions of the world. The mountaineer Jacques Balmat, who conquered Mont Blanc in 1786, used them to prepare for his historic climb. Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen also used them to cross Greenland in 1888. Snowshoes have accompanied great historical feats and continue to be used in many activities, including the gold rush and during the world wars, as was the case for the Italian Alpine troops during World War I. SNOWSHOEING IN VAL FORMAZZA In Val Formazza, snowshoeing is a perfect activity for discovering the unspoiled beauty of its snow-covered mountains. The trails are suitable for both beginners and those with experience. Immersed in the silence of nature, you can explore valleys, forests, and frozen lakes, with breathtaking views of majestic peaks like Corno Brunni. WHY CHOOSE SNOWSHOEING IN VAL FORMAZZA Snowshoeing in Val Formazza is a unique opportunity for those who want to experience the mountains authentically, away from the frenzy of crowded slopes. Val Formazza, with its pristine landscapes and snowy tranquility, is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and discovery. Accompanied by an expert guide, or on your own, you will have the chance to explore some of the most stunning corners of the Alps. WARNING It's mandatory to have an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe, and always check the latest weather reports. Safety in snowy environments is a priority and requires appropriate equipment and careful planning. RIALE CROSS-COUNTRY CENTRE RENTAL Riale District Phone: +393803100773 Email: mountainsportformazza@gmail.com CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE

  • HELISKI | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza HELISKI EMOTIONS AT HIGH ALTITUDE The Alta Val Formazza is a spectacular corner of the Alps, where mountain wilderness blends with a passion for high-altitude sports. Here, heliskiing becomes a unique experience, combining the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing on pristine snow with the knowledge of being in one of the most evocative and delicate environments in the Alps, with altitudes ranging from 1,300 m at Ponte to the 3,374 m of the Blinnenhorn. HELISKIING AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION In a valley characterized by the presence of Sites of Community Importance (SCI) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs), heliskiing is practiced responsibly and with constant monitoring. Thanks to the Environmental Impact Assessment, each activity is regulated to ensure respect for alpine ecosystems, safeguarding flora and fauna. The region has been divided into nine distinct zones, each with specific environmental and skiing characteristics. This rotation helps limit environmental impact, as does the restriction of flights to certain days: Monday through Saturday mornings, to leave weekends free for ski mountaineering. AN EXPERIENCE IN HARMONY WITH THE MOUNTAIN Heliskiing in Val Formazza means soaring over breathtaking landscapes and descending pristine slopes, while also respecting a fragile and precious environment. A virtuous balance between excitement and sustainability makes every descent even more meaningful. CONTACTS Heliski-Valformazza Operated by Heli Guides AG and Guidemonterosa S.R.L. Guidemonterosa S.R.L. Località Tschaval, 5 11020 Gressoney La Trinité (AO) Valle d'Aosta Heli-Guides AG Kreuzlingerstr. 5 8574 Lengwil Schweiz Telephone IT +39 0165 89137 / +39 393 3000533 CH +41 71 6887000 DE +49 89 215536560 Web: www.heliski-valformazza.com E-Mail: Info@Heli-Guides.com E-Mail: Info@Guidemonterosa.com

  • DOVE MANGIARE | Val Formazza

    Scopri dove mangiare in Val Formazza: ristoranti e locali tipici per gustare piatti autentici e specialità locali immersi nella montagna. TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza WHERE TO EAT ENJOY THE FLAVORS OF THE MOUNTAIN Discover the best restaurants in Formazza Valley, where you can savor traditional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. From delicacies featuring local cheeses and cured meats to meat and freshwater fish dishes, every meal is a unique culinary experience. If you're looking for an authentic gastronomic experience, you'll find a variety of options to suit your tastes, all nestled in the picturesque mountain scenery. RESTAURANTS In the Formazza Valley, you can savor typical Alpine cuisine in its welcoming restaurants. Each establishment offers specialties made with local ingredients, from cheeses and cured meats to meat and freshwater fish dishes. Discover the authenticity of mountain cuisine in a family-friendly setting, immersed in nature. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a refined dinner, the area's restaurants will offer you a culinary experience that celebrates the traditional flavors of the mountains. DISCOVER BAR In the Formazza Valley, cafés are the perfect place to relax during your hikes or after a day of skiing. Here, you can enjoy a coffee, an aperitif, or a traditional dessert, surrounded by the mountain scenery. Each café offers a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for recharging your batteries and socializing with friends and family. From traditional hot chocolate to local specialties, the valley's cafés are perfect for a stop during your mountain adventure. DISCOVER

  • NATURE AND LANDSCAPES | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza NATURE AND LANDSCAPES A Beautiful Landscape Val Formazza is an authentic and pristine territory, a place where the primordial energy of water has shaped Alpine landscapes of extraordinary beauty. Here, the silence of the peaks converses with the roar of the Toce Waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Europe: 143 meters of pure power that have always been the valley's icon. The nature of Val Formazza changes its face with each season, offering unique experiences to outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, Riale becomes the capital of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing excursions; in spring, the meadows burst with color and the streams fill with meltwater. Summer invites visitors to discover mountain pastures where the famous Bettelmatt cheese is produced, while trails lead to artificial lakes like Morasco, Toggia, and the striking Lake Vannino. Autumn, with its golden larch trees, transforms the valley into a living painting. The vast Lago del Sabbione and the numerous artificial basins, however, tell another story of the valley: one of perfect balance between nature and innovation. This is where the important system of Hydroelectric Power Plants of Val Formazza fits in, a historical industrial heritage that makes this area a benchmark for clean energy production. A concrete example of sustainability, where the power of water—the absolute protagonist of the valley—becomes a resource for the future. Amidst coniferous forests, larch groves, and rhododendrons lives a rich and protected fauna: roe deer, deer, marmots, and chamois accompany visitors, while the golden eagle rules the sky with its majestic flight. Walking the trails of Val Formazza, such as the Via dell'Abate or the evocative Walserweg, means immersing oneself in an authentic environment, where Walser culture and the majesty of the Alps merge into an intense and memorable experience. A territory to live, narrate, and discover, where every step is an invitation to connect with the purest essence of the mountains. EXPERIENCE THE SEASONS WITH US Fall Summer Spring Winter THE FLORA The Formazza Valley is home to a rich flora, growing between 400 and 2,700 meters above sea level in a mountainous and subalpine environment. Here, thanks to a unique microclimate and the presence of perennial snow at low altitudes, there are coniferous forests (Scots pine, fir, and larch) and, further up, typical Alpine flora: juniper, rhododendron, mountain pine, and blueberry. In spring and summer, the pastures are ablaze with color: gentians, crocuses, saxifrages, golden buttercups, columbines, arnica, primroses, and even the elegant edelweiss. Some species, such as alpine chamomile (Calaminta) and glacial mugwort used in genepi, are now protected for their ecological and therapeutic value. The variety and beauty of the Formazza Valley's wild flora is such that in the 1970s, the idea of creating an alpine botanical garden to protect and enhance it was proposed. At Lake Kastel, there's a botanical garden with signs describing and explaining all the flowers. THE FAUNA La Val Formazza ospita una ricchissima varietà di fauna alpina, simile a quella del resto dell’arco ossolano. Tra le farfalle, spiccano la Parnassius Apollo, l’Erebia e la Vanessa cardui, visibili anche in alta quota. Tra gli anfibi, sono presenti la Salamandra pezzata, quella nera e il Tritone alpestre. Nelle acque fredde dei torrenti vivono la Trota fario, l’Iridea e la rara Trota nera selvatica. Tra i rettili, comuni la Lucertola vivipara e serpenti innocui come il Colubro, mentre le vipere (Aspis e Berus) frequentano le zone soleggiate e sassose. Numerosi gli uccelli alpini: Pernice bianca, Gracchio alpino, Fringuello alpino, Aquila reale, gufi e civette. I boschi ospitano anche galliformi come il Francolino di monte e il Gallo forcello. Tra i mammiferi, l’osservazione è facile: Lepre, Scoiattolo, Marmotta, Volpe, Ermellino, Donnola, Tasso, Ghiro. Tra gli ungulati si avvistano Camoscio e Capriolo. Spesso lo Stambecco e il Cervo fanno capolino nella valle, questi ultimi possono essere spesso avvistati lungo la strada.

  • VIA DELL'ABATE | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF SAINT BERNARD Discover the Abbot's Way, a fascinating historical itinerary that, passing through the Formazza Valley, connects the Ossola Valley to Disentis (Switzerland). Dedicated to Nicolao de Rodis-Baceno, abbot of Disentis, the route brings an ancient communication route to life through Alpine landscapes of extraordinary beauty. A development project, supported by the Compagnia di San Paolo Foundation and led by the Municipality of Formazza, along with Baceno and Premia, promotes this itinerary in the spirit of sustainable tourism. Based on the studies of historian Enrico Rizzi, the route is now enhanced with new signage and a program of events and organized hikes (until November), especially in the Ossola municipalities, to also celebrate the centenary of Saint Bernard, Patron Saint of the Alps. Bruna Papa, Mayor of Formazza, describes the route as "a path that tells stories of brotherhood and transcending boundaries, offering a travel experience that combines leisure, culture, and reflection." It is an invitation to regeneration in a context of beauty and sustainability. Explore the Via dell'Abate: an adventure through history, culture, and the pristine nature of the Formazza Valley and surrounding areas. HISTORY OF THE ABBOT WAY The Via dell'Abate (Abbot’s Way) crosses a vast and evocative territory, linking Piedmont (Italy), Canton Ticino, and Graubünden (Switzerland). Its name is a tribute to Nicolao de Rodis-Baceno, a distinguished medieval figure from Baceno. Born into a noble feudal family, Nicolao was an imperial vassal and a Benedictine monk, living in an era—the late 13th century—when the valleys around the St. Gotthard were deeply interconnected. Nicolao’s father, Guidobono de Rodis-Baceno, served as Podestà of the Blenio Valley in 1270, on the southern side of the Lukmanier Pass. In 1296, Nicolao embarked on a long journey from Baceno to Disentis, where he became the prince-abbot of the eponymous Benedictine monastery. Founded in the 8th century by Irish monks, Disentis was a vital center for the civilization and colonization of the entire Alpine region, fostering the settlement of Walser colonists through the feudal support of the Rodis-Baceno family. The Via dell'Abate route begins in the Antigorio Valley and leads to Disentis, crossing three Alpine passes. It winds through a still-pristine high-altitude region of extraordinary natural value, representing a true symbol of the Alps. Beyond being a historical trail, the Via dell'Abate embodies the concept of the journey as an experience of discovery, inviting hikers to explore breathtaking landscapes and a past that still resonates among the mountains today. THE MAP DOWNLOAD MAP THE STAGES STAGE 1 Baceno – Cadarese Length: 8.5 km Elevation gain: +300 m Elevation gain: –120 m Time: 2 hours 20 minutes STAGE 2 Cadarese – Ponte Length: 12.5 km Elevation gain: +600 m Elevation gain: –75 m Time: 3 hours 45 minutes STAGE 3 Ponte – Maria Luisa Refuge lunghezza 9,2 km dislivello + 1000 m dislivello – 100 m tempo 4h 00’ STAGE 4 Maria Luisa Refuge – Pescium Length: 22 km Elevation gain: +800 m Elevation gain: –1200 m Time: 6 hours and 00 minutes PESCIUM ARIOLO TRANSFER WITH CABLE CAR AND BUS STAGE 5 Airolo – Lake Ritom Length: 9.2 km Elevation gain: +815 m Elevation gain: –135 m Time: 3 hours 20 minutes STAGE 6 Lake Ritom – Lukmanier Pass Length: 13.3 km Elevation gain: +500 m Elevation gain: –430 m Time: 3 hours 50 minutes STAGE 7 Lukmanier Pass – Platta Length: 17.3 km Elevation gain: +290 m Elevation gain: –825 m Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes STAGE 8 Platta – Disentis Length: 8.3 km Elevation gain: +280 m Elevation gain: –515 m Time: 2 hours 20 minutes THE TERRITORY The Via dell'Abate offers the traveler a journey immersed in history and nature, traversing places of extraordinary beauty and cultural significance from the very start. In Baceno, the route opens with the monumental Church of San Gaudenzio, a true artistic jewel built on a rocky spur, considered the most beautiful church in the Alps. Its interior houses medieval frescoes, Renaissance stained-glass windows, and neo-Gothic polychrome wooden sculptures. Continuing towards Premia, the hiker encounters the Orridi di Uriezzo, deep rocky gorges carved by subglacial streams, rich in prehistoric evidence. Premia is now a renowned thermal spa town, which also preserves valuable cultural artifacts such as the mineralogical museum. Here stands the ancient Hospice of San Bernardo, founded in the 13th century by the de Rodis lords and today one of the few surviving examples of a medieval church-hospice in the Alps. Ascending the valley, the path reaches Cristo, a fortress-settlement that was the seat of the de Rodis-Cristo lords, where a medieval tower still dominates the landscape. On the border between the Antigorio Valley and the Val Formazza lies the Sanctuary of Antillone, famous for a cycle of frescoes depicting the oldest pilgrimage to the St. Gotthard (17th century). The sanctuary also houses a 16th-century fresco of San Bernardo by Luigi Reali Fiorentino. A little lower down, the small Lake Antillone represents a natural habitat for a rare species of alpine newt, offering striking landscapes that change color with the seasons. The path continues towards Formazza, passing through Fondovalle and Chiesa, the religious capital of the valley. Here stands the Parish Church of San Bernardo d'Aosta, the oldest in the entire Alpine arc, dedicated to the patron saint of the Alps and mountaineers. In Ponte, an unmissable stop is the Casa-Forte, a museum on the Alpine passes housing a collection of 15th-16th century German polychrome wooden sculptures. The Via dell'Abate then leads to the spectacular Cascata del Toce, with a 143-meter drop, long admired by scientists, artists, and writers. At Riale, the route continues towards the high natural area of Val Toggia, between Lake Kastell and Fischersee, an area of particular environmental value, framed by the Dolomieu Ridge, a majestic dolomitic wall. After crossing the San Giacomo Pass, the Via dell'Abate descends into the Val Bedretto as far as Airolo, where it connects with the Via delle Genti, leading to the St. Gotthard Pass. From there, the route continues to Madrano, climbing into the Valle di Piora, home to the Alpine Biology Center, managed by the Universities of Zurich and Geneva. The path then reaches the Passo dell’Uomo, descending into the Valle del Lucomagno, characterized by one of the most important Swiss stone pine forests in the Alps. Upon reaching the Lukmanier Pass, the trail follows an ancient medieval route used by emperors heading to Italy. After crossing the Medel Valley, one finally reaches Disentis and its Benedictine monastery, active for fourteen centuries. Here, the traveler can immerse themselves in history through the Monastery Museum, rich in valuable natural history collections and artworks of great significance. With the exception of a few sections (Baceno-Formazza, Bedretto-Airolo, and Passo del Lucomagno-Disentis), the entire route crosses Alpine regions without carriage roads, at altitudes between 800 and 2300 meters. Well-marked trails lead the hiker through still-active mountain pastures, where it is possible to taste and purchase prized Alpine cheeses such as Bettelmatt and Piora, two of the finest Alpine dairy products. Other typical products include Formazza potatoes, and the bread and pastries of the Surselva region in Graubünden. Along the way, one can admire well-preserved stretches of medieval mule track, such as those near the Cascata del Toce and in Val Piora, as well as over sixty alpine lakes of extraordinary beauty. The architectural heritage of Alpine rural houses is also significant, with ancient Blockbau wooden Höfe visible in Formazza and Medel (Lucomagno). The Via dell'Abate was also traversed by illustrious travelers such as Saint Charles Borromeo and Déodat de Dolomieu, who, crossing the entire itinerary in 1801, gave this historic route further consecration. Tourism Office DO YOU LIKE THE FORMAZZA VALLEY? CONTACT US! CALL THE TOURIST OFFICE

  • RESTAURANTS | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza RESTAURANTS Ross-Wald Farmhouse San Michele The RossWald Farmhouse offers the opportunity to spend relaxing days in the quiet of the mountains, in direct contact with nature and animals. The restaurant serves delicious meat dishes, especially traditional local specialties. Phone: +39 338 8078072 Email: info@agriturismorosswald.it Website: https://www.agriturismorosswald.it/ CHIAMA E-MAIL WEBSITE Igli Pub Valdo District Phone: 0324 203420 CALL INSTAGRAM Edelweiss Restaurant Ponte District The Bignami family's cuisine is authentic, genuine, and rooted in the simplicity of its ingredients, carefully selected. The quality of the ingredients is the foundation of their dishes, complemented by passion, love, and a touch of creativity. Phone: 0324 63034 Email: info@albergoedelweiss.net Website: www.albergoedelweiss.net CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE Rotenthal Restaurant Ponte District In this restaurant, you can enjoy authentic dishes from the local Walser tradition, such as Pratähäpfla, roasted potatoes with melted cheese and onions, or excellent local cured meats, especially bresaola, venison ham, and Formazza Valley loin. Phone: +39 351 8731913 Email: rotenthal@rotenthal.it Website: www.rotenthal.it CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE Cà D Pierin Ponte District Bar and restaurant in Formazza, Ponte District, near the chairlift departure point. Phone: +39 331 361 5730 CALL FACEBOOK La Cascata del Toce Restaurant Frua District The "Ristorante Cascata del Toce" is the ideal place to enjoy typical mountain dishes in an incredibly prestigious architectural setting, combining your dining experience with a splendid view of Europe's most impressive waterfall. Phone: +39 335 7682841 Email: ristorante.cascata@libero.it Website: https://www.cascatadeltoce.com/ CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE Le Alpi Restaurant Frua Located in Frua, a stone's throw from the Toce Waterfall, Albergo Ristorante Le Alpi offers a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant. Phone: +39 338 3448489 Email: ristorantelealpi@yahoo.com CALL E-MAIL Aalts Dorf Restaurant Riale Our facility reflects the mountain characteristics of ancient Alpine homes, evoking the stories, traditions, and customs of the Walser people while offering all the comforts you need: 20 entirely wooden rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, televisions, balconies, panoramic terraces, ample parking, and a restaurant serving traditional and creative gourmet cuisine. Phone: +39 329 1257417 Email: aaltsdorf@gmail.com Website: www.aaltsdorf.com CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE Walser Schtuba Restaurant and Inn Riale Walser Schtuba boasts a wonderful dining room, typical of traditional Walser architecture, where you'll feel enveloped by the warm charm of wood. Phone: +39 339 3663330 Email: info@locandawalser.it Website: www.locandawalser.it CALL E-MAIL WEBSITE

  • BEYOND THE VALLEY | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza BEYOND THE VALLEY Along the road leading to the Formazza Valley, you'll find three authentic gems nestled in the Antigorio Valley. The municipalities of Premia, Baceno, and Crodo enrich the visitor experience with evocative landscapes, Alpine traditions, thermal waters, and historic architecture. Premia is famous for its natural hot springs, a wellness center nestled in the mountains, ideal for relaxing after a hike or a day on the snow. Baceno is home to the splendid church of San Gaudenzio, a Romanesque masterpiece nestled among the rocks, and offers access to spectacular itineraries such as the Orrido di Uriezzo. Crodo, nestled in mountain woods and vineyards, is known for its mineral waters and is also the birthplace of the famous Crodino wine. Visiting these villages means immersing yourself in the true soul of Ossola: authentic places, rich in history, nature, and hospitality. PREMIA BACENO CRODO

  • PASSEGGIATE RIALE | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza RIALE WALKS Riale is the ideal starting point for leisurely walks to discover the natural wonders of the Formazza Valley. Among mountain pastures, lakes, and breathtaking views, the trails are perfect for those seeking a relaxing experience immersed in pristine nature. RIALE PLAIN For those who prefer flat walking, the Riale plain offers the opportunity to walk the entire length without any hills. From the parking lot at the Fondo center to the Morasco dam wall, follow the paved road, also suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. MORASCO DAM Elevation gain: 50m Time: 1 hour Difficulty: T From the road at the foot of the dam, it's possible to climb, on foot only, to the "Guardians' House." It's also possible to cross the dam by following the wall to the other side (600m). The route descends to the Riale plain, still on an easy path. TOUR OF THE MORASCO LAKE Elevation gain: 100m Time: 1.5 hours Difficulty: T From the Riale plain, reach the right summit of the Morasco dam wall. Continue along the flat dirt road that leads to the lake's edge. Cross the river and skirt the lake on a slight incline, reaching the shore of the Morasco dam where, still on an easy trail, you descend back to the Riale plain. FROM TOCE FALL Elevation gain: 50m Time: 1.5 hours Difficulty: T From the large square at the Toce waterfall, toward the bottom, the trail begins and winds through the meadows of the "Frua" plain. Keep to the right of the valley to climb to the pass that separates the waterfall from Riale. Continue downhill to the right, following the cross-country ski trail to Riale. RIGONI STERN WAY Dislivello: 200m Tempo: 2 h Difficoltà: T Il sentiero è stato intitolato al grande scrittore e Alpino Rigoni Stern per la sua permanenza a Riale nel 1939 durante un periodo di addestramento e preparazione in previsione dell’inizio della seconda guerra mondiale. Il sentiero parte dietro l’albergo Aalts Dorf e si inerpica ripido nel vallone di destra, raggiunto il colletto si prosegue sulla destra salendo ancora e portandosi sopra i dossi che accedono alla piana del Furkulti. Si sale ancora verso destra al passo del Furkulti, bella veduta su tutta la valle, si scende comodamente fino alla diga di Morasco sfruttando una comoda strada bianca. E’ possibile percorrere l’itinerario anche al contrario.

  • FAT BIKE | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza FAT BIKE THE ADVENTURE ON TWO WHEELS The Formazza Valley, with its snow-covered Alpine landscape and perfectly groomed trails, is the ideal place to experience the thrill of Fat Biking, a mountain bike with oversized tires designed to tackle soft, snow-covered terrain. In recent years, this activity has attracted an increasing number of enthusiasts, offering an exciting alternative to skiing and snowshoeing. Riding on the snow, immersed in the silence of a cheesy winter, offers a unique sense of freedom and connection with nature. Currently, two trails are marked and accessible by fat bike, both immersed in picture-perfect landscapes. But the future is in flux: new trails are being developed that will follow the contours of the cross-country trails, expanding the offering and catering to all types of bikers, from beginners to experts. Please note: These itineraries are only accessible in favorable weather and snow conditions and with appropriate equipment. It is important to always check the condition of the trails before setting off. RIALE - MARIA LUISA REFUGE 12 km with 500 m of elevation gain. Departure from the hamlet of Riale to the Maria Luisa Refuge, with descent along the same route. SAGERSBODEN - MARGAROLI REFUGE Using the chairlift, departing from the Ponte hamlet, you follow the groomed trail that passes near the Myriam Refuge and reaches the Margaroli Refuge. The return journey follows the same route. RIALE CROSS-COUNTRY CENTRE RENTAL Riale Email: mountainsportformazza@gmail.com E-MAIL WEBSITE

  • CAMPINGS | Val Formazza

    Scopri i campeggi della Val Formazza: natura, tranquillità e libertà per vivere la montagna all’aria aperta in ogni stagione. TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza CAMPSITES Pineta Campsite FONDOVALLE Campsite with permanent caravans, equipped area for campers, caravans, and tents. Hot showers, laundry facilities, electricity hookups, Wi-Fi, gazebo, and trampoline. Phone: +39 389 1604313 - +39 347 0894664 Email: campeggiopineta@libero.it Website: www.campeggioformazza.it MOBILE 1 MOBILE 2 WEBSITE E-MAIL Campeggio Sagersboden PONTE A small campsite located in the Ponte hamlet, at 1,270 meters above sea level, offers approximately 80 pitches for campers, caravans, and tents. All essential services are available. Phone: +39 388 4282975 Email: Camping.sagersboden@gmail.com Website: www.campeggiosagersboden.it CALL WEBSITE E-MAIL

  • OUR STORY | Val Formazza

    TOURISM OFFICE Ponte 4 - 28863 Formazza (VB) Tel. +39 0324 63059 Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Tourist Office opening hours from September 1st to May 31st Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 6 pm Friday and Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm and from 2:30pm to 6pm Sunday from 10 to 12:30 LINK 3B Weather Swiss Weather Contributions Received 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions SOCIALS Facebook Instagram © 2025 by Pro Loco Formazza OUR STORY Val Formazza is an enchanted place where nature, history, and culture have been intertwined for centuries, creating a landscape unlike any other. Located in the heart of the Lepontine Alps, this valley witnessed the arrival of the ancient Walser populations from the Swiss canton of Valais in the 13th century, who left an indelible mark on the land and on local traditions. The Walser community, with its wooden and stone houses, brought with it a cultural and architectural heritage that still defines the villages of the valley today. Over the centuries, Val Formazza has been a crossroads of trade and a transit route for travelers heading toward Northern Europe and the southern regions of Italy. Mule tracks, paths, and ancient roads cross the valley, telling stories of merchants, pilgrims, and artisans. Here, Alpine and Italian cultural influences blend in a harmonious way, reflected in local gastronomy, architecture, and traditional attire. Today, Val Formazza is a beloved tourist destination, appreciated for its authenticity and unspoiled nature, offering breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality. From majestic glaciers to lush high-altitude meadows, and the renowned Toce Waterfalls—one of the highest waterfalls in Europe—the valley is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, winter sports lovers, and those seeking alpine tranquility. We proudly preserve our roots, promoting responsible tourism that enhances both the environment and local culture. Val Formazza is not just a destination, but a journey through time—a place where every corner tells an ancient story, and where the Walser tradition continues to live on, enriching the beauty and authenticity of our land. STORIES THAT TELL US All Forms of Water: What to See and Do in Val Formazza Lonely Planet Val Formazza and its surroundings with children Mamme Wanderlust La Beccaccia La nostra magica valle... La Val Formazza Val Formazza: 10 Must-See Places to See Finestre sull'Arte Val Formazza, Alpine Wonders of Piedmont Consigli Piú Turismo Val Formazza The Upper Formazza Valley: Excursion to Lakes Vannino and Sruer Un Due Tre, Si Viaggia! Turismo Vacanze Riale in Val Formazza: Cosa Vedere in Val Formazza e Dintorni

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