Avegno-Ponte Brolla-Avegno

From Avegno, a village awarded the Wakker Prize in 1982 for its traditional character, a well signposted (red-and-white) footpath heads towards Ponte Brolla. Above the village, the path climbs steadily through the woods to Bivio Monteggia: here, the descent begins on a well-prepared path to the main road, where you cross the old railway bridge.

It's worth pausing on the bridge to admire the gorges of Ponte Brolla, shaped and polished by the water. When you reach the other side, pass the grotti and head back into the forest. The trees provide welcome shade in the summer and make the ascent of the stone steps that much more pleasant.

The path follows the river Maggia for some of the time – again in summer, you might like to take in dip in the water. At Avegno cross the footbridge and return to the village.