Sonogno-Capanna Cognora-Sonogno

Sonogno, the last village in the Verzasca valley, can be reached by car or bus (Locarno-Tenero-Sonogno route). A footpath (asphalted road to Secada) follows the stream to Cabiói, where the tour actually starts. Numerous timber and stone steps have to be negotiated on this steep mountain path to the Capanna Cognora.

The route includes exposed sections: tricky ones are equipped with chains for holding on to. Much of the tour takes place in woodland in the shade first of beech trees, then larches as you rise higher and higher.

The Capanna Cognora (open June-October) is built on a natural terrace offering fantastic views. You can stay the night or return down along the same path to Sonogno (on the way you can buy cheese at the Azienda Agricola Patà). Its traditional stone houses, little shops serving local products, restaurants, museum and House of Wool are well worth investigating.