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Valley in Switzerland
Photo: Philipp Wößner, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
The Verzasca Valley is a long narrow valley located in Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. This valley offers a wild and fascinating landscape, with the Alps on one side and a lake on the other. The river has an emerald green color, and thanks to its good visibility, it is famous as a river diving destination.
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This dam is spectacular as one of the highest dam in Europe (220m). The construction of the dam was started in 1960 and completed in 1965. The water blocked by the dam forms the Lake Vogorno. It is possible to walk along the dam wall (380m) and enjoy the view of the valley from there.
The oldest church in the valley (built in 13th century), decorated in Byzantine style.
This old double-arched bridge is mistakenly known as "Roman Bridge".
This manor used to be former summer residence of the Mercacci family from Locarno.
Art trail
A permanent collection from 21 Swiss and international artist blend with nature. Located in a path from Lavertezzo to an area called Ganne (approx. 4 km).
A jump from the Verzasca Dam was the opening scene of James Bond's "Golden Eye". The jump lasts 7.5 seconds, as the height of the dam is 220m -- it is supposed to be the highest bungy jump place in the world. Only do it with a reputable operator.
In River Verzasca. Best to do late spring to early autumn. There are several diving sites. The hotel Pizzo Vogorno offers reasonable accommodation for divers.
A small restaurant out in the green outside the village of Sonogno.
A number of holiday apartments at different prices.
By public transport
There is no train service in the Verzasca valley. The nearest train stations are in Tenero and Locarno. From both of those stations, there are buses going to the valley.
By car
Coming from both north or south, take A2 (or A13) and exit at Bellinzona south, from there drive to Tenero and follow the signs to Valle Verzasca.
By bus
Postal bus passes the villages approx. every 2 hours. Swiss Pass is valid.
By car
To go all the way to Sonogno, one should take the road on the east side of the valley. The road on the west side only goes up to Mergoscia.
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