Search Results

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. All Forms of Water: What to See and Do in Val Formazza Lonely Planet Val Formazza and its surroundings with children Mamme Wanderlust Val Formazza Piú Turismo La nostra magica valle... La Val Formazza La Beccaccia Val Formazza: 10 Must-See Places to See Finestre sull'Arte Val Formazza, Alpine Wonders of Piedmont Consigli The Upper Formazza Valley: Excursion to Lakes Vannino and Sruer Un Due Tre, Si Viaggia! Riale in Val Formazza: Cosa Vedere in Val Formazza e Dintorni Turismo Vacanze STORIES THAT TELL US

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 ATTIVITÁ ESTIVE HIKES Formazza is a hiking paradise, with trails winding through breathtaking landscapes and pristine nature. From easy family trails to more challenging ones for experienced hikers, every corner of the valley tells a unique story. Discover alpine refuges, spectacular waterfalls, and breathtaking views, all steeped in Walser tradition and culture. An experience that deeply connects you with the mountains and their landscape. DISCOVER WALKS Walks in Formazza are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the valley. Explore trails that lead through enchanting forests, green meadows, and ancient Walser villages, all with spectacular scenery that changes with every step. Suitable for everyone, from families to nature lovers, our walks offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, allowing you to discover the authentic beauty of the mountains. DISCOVER TRAIL RUNNING The Formazza Valley is ideal for trail running, with wide, well-maintained trails that wind from the valley floor to the glaciers. Every July, the valley hosts the famous International Bettelmatt Sky Race, a prestigious competition for mountain running enthusiasts. Since 2016, the challenge has expanded to include the Bettelmatt Ultra Trail (BUT), a spectacular 82 km route that traverses the entire mountain range. A unique experience combining nature and adrenaline! DISCOVER CLIMBING The Vannino Valley is a hub for rock climbing enthusiasts. With approximately 200 routes of varying difficulty, it offers single-pitch, double-pitch, and multi-pitch routes suitable for all levels. Currently, the valley boasts between 7 and 9 equipped climbing areas, making it a must-see destination for those seeking vertical challenges immersed in pristine nature. DISCOVER

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

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 SPRING THE SPRING IN VAL FORMAZZA Spring in the Formazza Valley is a gentle and spectacular awakening. The snow retreats, giving way to flower-filled meadows, rushing streams, and a nature slowly coming back to life. It's the ideal time for those who love the mountains in their most authentic form, with their ever-changing landscapes and a fresh, rejuvenating atmosphere. In spring, you can: Embark on the first panoramic hikes and walks in the woods Observe the awakening of alpine flora, including crocuses, rhododendrons, and gentians Visit the Walser villages immersed in the silence and clear light of April and May The Formazza Valley in spring is the perfect place for a weekend of nature and tranquility, with pure air, clear skies, and the simple joy of walking among the first colors of the new season. Where to Sleep Relax and Wellness Where to Eat Walks Hikings

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 HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

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 GUESTHOUSES Walser Hüs Leni Zimmer Walser House Valdo A typical 19th-century Walser house located in Valdo, adjacent to the ski slopes and a 15-minute drive from the Toce Waterfall, offers accommodations in stylish wooden rooms and the chance to enjoy the warmth of the traditional oven in the schtuba, surrounded by tradition. Phone: +39 328 1192453 Email: almaferrera70@gmail.com Guesthouse Zwargji la Casa dei Folletti Riale In the heart of Formazza, Zwargji is an 18th-century Walser house, entirely rebuilt in 2013 with natural materials and sustainable technologies, in harmony with tradition and the environment. Rated energy class A, it offers three intimate and welcoming rooms, each with a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, and a TV. Managed by Otello Facchini, an environmental hiking guide and forest wellness guide, Zwargji is the ideal starting point for those seeking authentic experiences among the woods, snow, and peaks of the Formazza Valley. Phone: +39 3486022824 Email: facchiniotello56@gmail.com Website: www.zwargji.it

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 HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

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 HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here:

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 MARGAROLI REFUGE 2196M Difference in altitude: 777m Time: 3.00 h Difficulty: E From Canza, hike through the beautiful fir forest to Sagersboden, where you enter the Vannino Valley and follow it gently uphill to the lake of the same name. Located on a hill to the side of the lake is the Eugenio Margaroli Refuge, dedicated to the historic Domodossola mountain guide. The refuge is owned by the CAI Domodossola. The Support Points LOWER BUSIN LAKE 2398M Difference in altitude: 297m Time: 2 hours Difficulty: E Lake Busin Inferiore is an artificial lake located at the foot of Mount Giove and can be reached from Lake Vannino by following the left bank. MOUNT JUPITER 3019M Difference in altitude: 813m Time: 3.30 hours Difficulty: EE The departure point is Vannino. Monte Giove is known as the "Ossola lookout": it offers a stunning 360° view of the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, the Bernese Oberland, and the Antigorio and Formazza Valleys, all the way to Domodossola. The recommended time of year is July, August, and September. BOCCHETTA DELLA VALLE 2574M Difference in altitude: 378m Time: 3 hours Difficulty: E Starting from Vannino, it connects the Formazza Valley with the Devero Natural Park and can be traveled as an alternative to the “Scatta Minoia” route. PASSO SCATTA MINOIA 2599M Difference in altitude: 403m Time: 3 hours Difficulty: E Starting from Vannino, it connects Formazza with Devero. At the pass is the recently restored "Conti" bivouac. SRUER LAKE 2330M Difference in altitude: 134m Time: 40 min Difficulty: E From Lake Vannino, go up the path on the right and, crossing a pass, you reach the lake.

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 CLIMBING A ROCK PARADISE The Vannino Valley is a hub for rock climbing enthusiasts. With approximately 200 routes of varying difficulty, it offers single-, double-, and multi-pitch routes suitable for all levels. Currently, the valley boasts between 7 and 9 equipped sectors, making it an unmissable destination for those seeking vertical challenges immersed in pristine nature. The Support Point EUGENIO MARGAROLI REFUGE - 2177 m Località Vannino Stagione primaverile e estiva Nel cuore delle Alpi Lepontine, il Lago Vannino incanta con le sue acque di un azzurro intenso. Ogni stagione regala scenari unici: d’estate si veste di mille sfumature, mentre d’inverno si trasforma in una distesa ghiacciata. In primavera, il verde si fa spazio tra la neve, dando vita a spettacolari contrasti, seguiti da tappeti di fiori che incorniciano la valle. La fauna alpina – aquile, camosci, stambecchi, marmotte, ermellini e volpi – popola questo angolo di natura, offrendo incontri emozionanti a chi sa osservare con attenzione. Telefono: 0324 308093 Whatsapp: 328 9040431 E-Mail: rifugiomargaroli@libero.it Sito Web: www.rifugiomargarolicai.com

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 Privacy Policy Last Updated: November 24, 2025 La presente Informativa sulla Privacy descrive come ValFormazza.it raccoglie, utilizza, conserva e protegge i dati personali dei visitatori e degli utenti del sito web. Ci impegniamo a trattare i dati personali nel pieno rispetto del Regolamento (UE) 2016/679 (GDPR) e delle normative vigenti in materia di protezione dei dati. 1. Data Controller Pro Loco Formazza Address: Frazione Ponte 4, 28863 Formazza (VB), Italy Email: prolocoformazza@gmail.com 2. Types of data collected When you browse valformazza.it, we collect and store information you provide voluntarily or that is acquired automatically through technical means. 2.1 Data provided voluntarily When you fill out forms on the site or send us communications, we may collect: Name and surname E-mail address Physical address (if entered) Telephone number Content of messages or requests sent Any attachments Data relating to requests for information or participation in events (We do not collect payment information because the site does not process online transactions.) 2.2 Data collected automatically The site also collects technical information, including: IP address Browser type About your device Page response times Session duration Pages visited and interactions Methods used to leave the page This data is collected through Wix tools, technical cookies, and navigation analysis tools. 3. Purpose of the processing We collect personal data to: Provide and manage the site services (respond to requests, provide tourist information, technical support) Communicate with users and visitors via email in case of requests or notices relating to the services Analyze site usage to improve content, structure, navigability and functionality Create aggregate statistics anonymously or pseudonymized Ensure the safety of the site and its users Comply with legal and regulatory obligations 4. Legal basis for processing The main legal bases are: Consent (Article 6.1.a GDPR) – when the user enters his/her data into forms Legitimate interest (Article 6.1.f GDPR) – for statistical analysis, IT security Fulfillment of legal obligations (Article 6.1.c GDPR) 5. Data storage, use and sharing The valformazza.it website is hosted on the Wix.com platform. Wix provides the technical infrastructure and stores data in its own databases and cloud systems, protected by advanced security measures such as firewalls, encryption, and access controls. Wix may process data in non-EU countries, but guarantees an adequate level of protection through: GDPR-compliant data transfer agreements Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) We do not sell or rent your data to third parties. We may only share data with: technical providers (e.g. hosting, email) public bodies or authorities, if required by law partners who collaborate on events or activities in the area, only with the user's prior consent 6. Data security Wix uses advanced security technologies. Furthermore: we use HTTPS protocols We limit access to data to authorized personnel only. We only keep data for as long as necessary 7. Cookies and tracking tools The site uses technical and functional cookies, as well as measurement and security cookies integrated by Wix. The main cookies used include: XSRF-TOKEN – security hs – security SVSession – authentication and basic functionality SSR-caching – performance TS* – attack detection bSession – system effectiveness measurement fedops.logger.sessionId – error monitoring wixAB3|* – site testing and improvements server-session-bind / client-session-bind – API security oAuthState – session management wixSession – system stability 8. Rights of the interested party Hai il diritto di: accedere ai tuoi dati richiedere la rettifica o cancellazione limitare o opporti al trattamento chiedere la portabilità dei dati revocare il consenso in qualsiasi momento presentare reclamo al Garante Privacy Puoi esercitare i tuoi diritti scrivendo a: 📧 prolocoformazza@gmail.com 9. Revocation of consent Se desideri revocare il consenso o richiedere la cancellazione dei tuoi dati, puoi contattarci in qualsiasi momento a: 📧 prolocoformazza@gmail.com 📬 Pro Loco Formazza – Frazione Ponte 4, 28863 Formazza (VB) 10. Changes to this Privacy Policy Ci riserviamo il diritto di aggiornare l’informativa in qualsiasi momento. Le modifiche saranno pubblicate su questa pagina e avranno effetto immediato. 11. Contact details for information or complaints Per qualunque richiesta relativa alla privacy puoi contattarci al seguente indirizzo: 📧 prolocoformazza@gmail.com 📬 Pro Loco Formazza – Frazione Ponte 4, 28863 Formazza (VB)

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 HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANTS GENERAL INFORMATIONS The Formazza Valley is the beating heart of Piedmont's hydroelectric power and one of the symbolic areas of the so-called "hydroelectric colonization of Ossola," a phenomenon that began in the early 20th century and radically transformed the Alpine landscape and the local economy. Here, amid glaciers, alpine lakes, and steep gradients, water became energy, giving rise to an extraordinary complex of dams, reservoirs, and hydroelectric power plants, capable of fueling the industrial development of northern Italy. The province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VCO), nestled between the Lepontine and Pennine Alps, is characterized by a large presence of alpine lakes. Many of these are artificial basins, created to optimize hydroelectric production at a time when hydroelectric power—white coal—was a major resource for industrial development. Of the 32 artificial basins, only 14 were built on pre-existing natural lakes. The others were built to power power plants that today represent an engineering and historical heritage of extraordinary value. The use of water for energy purposes began as early as the late 19th century, but it was in the early 20th century that the Val Formazza became the undisputed leader. With over 66% of its land non-productive due to the high altitude, the valley was perfectly suited for hydroelectric production. The first to recognize this potential was Ettore Conti, a young entrepreneur destined to become a key figure in the Italian electricity industry. In 1901, he founded the Società Anonima per Imprese Elettriche Conti, linked to Edison. From that moment, a series of projects and construction sites led to the creation of some of the most important plants in the valley: Rivasco Power Plant (1908): it harnessed the waters of the Toce with a 345-meter drop, generating 9,200 kW. Goglio Power Plant: it used the Devero stream and the Codelago and Pianboglio basins (later decommissioned). Sottofrua Power Plant (1924): with a capacity of 7,500 kW, it utilized the Valtoggia basin and Toggia and Lago Nero lakes. Valdo Power Plant (1920s): with 11,000 kW, later integrated into the Ponte system. Cadarese Power Plant (1928): one of the most powerful, producing 56,000 kW thanks to a 7 km long rock-hewn conduit. Morasco Power Plant (1957): entirely built inside a tunnel, it was the valley's first automated power plant, with remote control from Ponte. CONTACTS If you want to visit the hydroelectric power plants, guided tours are organized here: