Hint

Intro

A scenic hike through the wildest valley in the Lake Maggiore region. Enjoy the Onsernone Valley's tranquillity on old paths. Dense forests, waterfalls and hidden rustici line the route. The views extend over the deep valleys to Lake Maggiore.

Description

Three hundred bends lead up to Spruga, the last village of the Onsernone Valley at an altitude of 1,100 metres. The picturesque Ticino village sits on a sunny terrace above the deep gorge of the Isorno river. The valley has retained its original character with its rustic stone houses, high-altitude alps, steep paths and primaeval forests.

From Spruga, the steep trail winds its way up to Al Piansécc. Continue on the old path under shady larch trees to Alpe Pescéd. After another 200 metres in altitude difference, you cross the hike's highest point and reach the Munzzelümm massif. The scenic mountain trail leads past the Laghétt di Salèi mountain lake, where you can cool off on hot summer days. Shortly afterwards, you come to Alpe Salèi and the hut of the same name. The Capanna Salèi sits surrounded by expansive meadows, where black grouse mate in spring and cows graze in summer. The sunny terrace is well worth a break. The panoramic views stretch to Lake Maggiore. Those who prefer to do without the 1,100-metre ascent can reach the hut by cable car from Vergeletto.

At the Capanna Salèi begins a 30-minute climb to Pizzo Zucchero. The trail ascends gently at first and then gets steeper. The summit offers views over the Valle di Vergeletto and the Valle Onsernone to the Magadino plain. In good visibility, you can see the Monte Rosa massif in the distance. The Swing the World makes the views twice as delightful.

The return to the hut follows the ascent route. The trail then branches off to the left and leads through the enchanting Val Lavadina, past the sun-kissed hamlet of Lig'ünc to Comologno. The last section down to the village once again includes many steps.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

Show Technical information content
Start location
Spruga
Destination
Comologno
Ascent
1150 m
Descent
1100 m
Distance
12 km
Duration
5 h 20 min
Duration back
5 h 20 min
Technical requirements
Medium
Physical requirements
Difficult
Signalization
Signalisation in both directions
More information https://schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/r...

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 638

Distance

12 km

Duration

5 h 20 min

Ascent

1150 m

Travel information: Spruga

Current Offers

  • Intragna Introductory trekking with llamas on Monte Comino

    Guided trek of 1.5–2 hours on Monte Comino, through the Centovalli trails. from CHF 21
    Offer details


    valid: 27.10.2026 - 31.10.2026

    Learn more about Introductory trekking with llamas on Monte Comino
  • Cevio Double Room

    Cevio is an ideal starting point for climbing, hiking, ski touring, skiing and mountaineering. The... from CHF 100
    Offer details


    valid: 27.10.2026 - 21.03.2027

    Learn more about Double Room
  • Gordevio Maggiatal Val Grande canyoning for beginners

    The guided canyoning tour for beginners takes you through the beautiful Val Grande. You'll climb,... from CHF 165
    Offer details


    valid: 27.10.2026 - 01.11.2026

    Learn more about Maggiatal Val Grande canyoning for beginners