Diga Verzasca-Monti di Motti-Diga Verzasca

This delightful mountain tour starts at Switzerland's most famous dam, which played a starring role alongside James Bond due to his spectacular bungee jump (lesser mortals can copy him April-October). The route starts by following an asphalt and gravel lane, then a moderate red-white footpath.

Miescio is reached in less than an hour: a bench is provided at a vantage point for anyone needing a rest. Pass amongst the stone houses then zigzag up to the Monti di Metri and along a gravel road to Monti di Motti, the highest point of this tour. The 600-metre elevation gain is rewarded with panoramic views over Lake Maggiore, and the local osteria serves food and drink. The highlight is the little mountain lake with a pedalo.

The descent is very gentle, passing through Corte di Sopra and Lignasca, after which it zigzags steeply down to Fontöbbia: here, you return to the dam or take the bus (Locarno-Tenero-Sonogno route) from Berzona.