Trekking dei Laghetti

The Trekking dei Laghetti in Ticino is a five-stage hut-to-hut trek through the scenic Valle Maggia region and a part of the Via Alta Vallemagia, offering a mix of alpine landscapes, mountain lakes, and traditional Swiss-Italian hospitality. Here’s a breakdown of the route. Most hikers hike this trail in five days from hut to hut.

The trek starts in Fusio, a small alpine village, and heads towards Capanna Poncione di Braga a small cute mountain hut with scenic views. This first stage will introduce you to the alpine rocky terrain of Ticino, with a steady ascent through meadows and forests. The trail is well-marked, and the distance allows for a manageable start to the journey altough it’s way up today.

The second stage takes you from Capanna Poncione di Braga to Robièi / Capanna Basodino, a section known for its beautiful alpine lakes, or laghetti, that give this trek its name. You can choose to climb the Poncione di Braga peak which lies directly next to the trail and is quite remarkable. The path offers a moderate descent, and the changing landscapes towards the dam and lake of Robièi. The owners of Capanna Basadino are amazing and will provide you with fresh bread, pasta and other home made pastures. A perfect stay along this multi-day trek in Switzerland.

From Robièi, the third stage leads to Rifugio Maria Luisa. This section crosses the Swiss-Italian border, and you will pass by more of the region’s iconic mountain lakes. The ascent becomes steeper in places, but the route is manageable for experienced hikers. Rifugio Maria Luisa offers basic but comfortable accommodation and traditional meals, making it a welcoming stop after a challenging day.

Stage four goes from Rifugio Maria Luisa back into Switzerland with a steep ascend en descend towards Capanna Cristallina. This section features stunning alpine views, including alpine lakes and rocky terrain. The climb is more demanding, but the well-maintained path ensures a steady ascent. Capanna Cristallina is an amazing modern hut, totally different from the other mountain huts on this trek.

The final stage leads from Capanna Cristallina back to Fusio, completing the loop. The descent is gradual, with paths winding through forests and valleys. This last day provides a pleasant and scenic end to the Trekking dei Laghetti, with the return to Fusio where you can stay at the amazing Antica Osteria Dazio, a small family runned Bed and Breakfast with amazing local cuisine.

This five day hut-to-hut trek in Switzerland, Ticino is a special tour for moderate to experienced hikers. The trail goes a lot over rocky and uneven terrain and sometimes you’ll face steep ascents and descents. The rewards are amazing with the beautiful alpine lakes, cozy mountain huts and rugged mountain views. It’s a great option and alternative to avoid the crowds on other popular hiking trails such as the Tour du Mont Blanc and the Alta Via 1.

The best time to hike the Trekking dei Laghetti in Ticino is between late June and mid-September. During this period, the snow from the higher altitudes has melted most likely and the trails are fully accessible. Be aware that there might be some snowfields in June and the beginning of July and sometimes even later in the season, which could affect the difficulty and accessibility of the route. The weather tends to be more stable in these months, with warmer temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for hiking a hut-to-hut tour.

July and August are the most popular months due to the warmer temperatures, but they can also be the busiest. If you’re looking to avoid the main season, early September is a great option as the weather is still pleasant, and the trails are less crowded. It’s recommended to check local conditions before starting your hike, as weather in alpine regions can be unpredictable and change rapidly.

Alpine weather can change quickly, so it’s important to check the forecast before starting each stage. Be prepared for sudden temperature changes, rain, or even snow at higher altitudes. The trails are well-marked, but it’s crucial to follow them closely and always know how to navigate with GPS and a map, especially in areas with limited visibility or rugged terrain. While the trek doesn’t reach extreme altitudes, the terrain can be demanding and you’ll hike on alpine trails, so it’s important to be in good physical condition and accustomed to multi-day hikes.

In terms of gear, sturdy, hiking shoes are essential for navigating rocky and uneven terrain in the mountains of Ticino. Layered clothing is also important, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day. Pack layers, a warm fleece, and a waterproof jacket. A comfortable backpack with a rain cover and trekking poles are helpful for maintaining balance and reducing strain on your knees during ascents and descents. Be well-prepared with the right gear and enough water and food and stay informed about weather and trail conditions and enjoy the hut-to-hut hike of the Trekking dei Laghetti.