Santa Petronilla Waterfall
Overview
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Hint
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Intro
Discover the Santa Petronilla waterfall above Biasca. The highest waterfall in Ticino plunges over the rock face in two crossing arms. Experience the natural spectacle on a short walk from the village centre.
The Santa Petronilla Waterfall at a glance
The Santa Petronilla waterfall is considered the highest waterfall in Ticino. The Ri della Froda mountain stream rises on the Alpe di Lago and plunges down the rock face above Biasca. Characteristic are the two water arms that cross each other in the fall. Below the stone bridge are several natural pools.
What to experience
Walk to the waterfall (30 minutes)
Start at the village square or Biasca train station and walk past the Casa Cavalier Pellanda and the Romanesque church of San Pietro e Paolo. From there you follow the Stations of the Cross with 14 wayside chapels, designed by contemporary artists. In the shade of the chestnut trees, you will reach the stone bridge overlooking the waterfall.
- Good to know: Wear sturdy shoes, the path is partly rocky.
Baden in the natural pools
Below the stone bridge, the Ri della Froda has formed several natural pools into the rock. In summer you can cool off here. The access leads from the church of San Carlo Borromeo to the left towards Santa Petronilla. The pools are not signposted, the path to them is narrow and steep in places.
- Good to know: The water remains very cold even in summer.
View from the Chapel of Santa Petronilla
The Chapel of Santa Petronilla stands on the other side of the stone bridge above the waterfall. From the elevated position, you can look across Biasca to the Leventina, the Blenio Valley and the Riviera. Back to the village centre, take the Stations of the Cross past the church of San Pietro e Paolo.
- Good to know: Biasca can be reached by train from Bellinzona in 15 minutes.
- Tip: With the Ticino Ticket, you can travel free of charge throughout the canton as an overnight guest.
General information
| Season |
All year
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|---|---|
| Accessibility |
Not accessible
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Discover the surroundings
Address
Bellinzona e Valli Turismo
Piazza Collegiata 12
6500
Bellinzona
Phone
+41 91 825 21 31
bellinzona@bellinzonaevalli.ch
bellinzonaevalli.ch
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