Niva-Piano di Campo-Niva

Niva, the first and most secluded hamlet of Campo Vallemaggia, is surrounded by its precious chestnut grove, with large, monumental chestnut trees framing the village. From here, the trail descends towards the bridge over the Rovana and, once across the river, ventures onto the shaded slope, away from the more frequented routes. The landscape changes: the moisture, filtered light and soft undergrowth create an almost suspended atmosphere. During winter, this slope slowly regenerates, preserving a delicate and silent natural environment.

Yet among the trees there are also traces of a human presence that lived in symbiosis with these places for centuries. Rural buildings, walls and small areas once cultivated still remain; some structures can still be clearly recognised, while others are slowly being reclaimed by vegetation. Walking here means allowing yourself to be enveloped by the quiet and observing a landscape where nature and memory coexist.

The same feeling remains as the trail returns to the left-hand side of the valley. It passes through S'cèda, with its small oratory, and Piano di Campo, following the road for only a short stretch before re-entering the forest. At Gròsa, terraces and the last traces of a settlement almost entirely swallowed by vegetation emerge among the trees: discreet signs that invite us to imagine what life was once like.

The trail eventually leads back to Niva, where the broad countryside is home to the buildings of an Alpine community. After crossing the village, the route reaches the church, next to the old school: once the heart of the community, the building is now being given a new lease of life through a heritage enhancement project promoted by the Patriziato.