Robiei Trail

In San Carlo, Val Bavona, amidst a spectacular mountain world shaped by rocks, cliffs, and wild nature, stands the valley station of the cable car that goes up to Robièi, the starting point of this route. 

The cable car is certainly the most comfortable and energy-saving way to reach Robièi and also offers the opportunity to admire the fascinating landscape from the air. In just 15 minutes you reach an altitude of 1900 m in the beautiful area around Robièi, at the foot of the Basodino glacier, near the eponymous dam, from where you have a magnificent view of the Ticino Alps. The Basodino glacier is the most impressive and significant glacier in Ticino. A shimmering white peak reaching up to 3273 m and unfolding in front of a magnificent landscape of granite and gneiss.

At the cable car mountain station begins the trail leading to the left shore of Lake Robièi. There is a longer ascent at the beginning, gaining 500 meters in altitude. This is followed by a gentle descent to the lake. Past the lake, there is a longer section along the paved road. At the fork, take the natural path that slightly rises again instead of continuing on the road to Lago Bianco. The lake glistens in the sun and crystals shine along the path.

Robièi is known for its wealth of minerals. There is a slight up and down over partly exposed passages past Lago Nero before tackling the short ascent to the highest point of the route. When you reach the end of the lake, the path turns towards Alpe Lielp, where you encounter cows, goats, and pigs and where the excellent cheese "Vallemaggia", butter, and ricotta are produced. From Alpe Lielp you can continue downhill to the Basodino hut. On the way, marmots, ibex, and chamois can be observed. At the mountain station, take the cable car back to San Carlo.