The Via delle Genti, an ancient route connecting Verbania to Switzerland, is reimagined through the Grand Tour project as an experience of wonder and discovery: an open door to new emotions and an invitation to rediscover the heart of Upper Lake Maggiore with fresh eyes.

Once the only link between the villages of Upper Verbano and Switzerland, the Via delle Genti is today a path of great environmental and cultural value. It winds along the mid-hills of the Verbano area, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Maggiore.

The trail leads through small, charming stone villages like Oggebbio, the Sacred Mount of Ghiffa Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the better-known lakeside towns of Cannero and Cannobio, up to the higher altitudes of Trarego Viggiona.

The route starts at the UNESCO Sacred Mount of Ghiffa, then passes through the small hamlets of Deccio, Novaglio, and Camogno, reaching Oggebbio. From there, it continues mid-slope through Barbè and Cassino, arriving at Cannero Riviera, known for its citrus fruits, made possible by an exceptional microclimate that gives the town an almost coastal feel. Leaving the village behind, the ancient path winds through woods and wild meadows until it reaches Carmine Superiore, a clifftop village offering a magnificent view of the Cannero Castles.

Before continuing along the ancient trail, a detour is a must to reach Trarego Viggiona, where visitors can explore the Cadorna Line trenches and, for lovers of jaw-dropping views, admire the panorama from Monte Carza, home to Big Bench #138.

Returning to the Via delle Genti, the route leads from Cannero to Molineggi, descending to Cannobio via Solivo. After crossing the Cannobino River, the path continues to Marchile and Formine. From there, a short detour north along a scenic chestnut-lined trail leads to the Church of San Bartolomeo in Montibus.

Find out more here: https://www.grandtourviadellegenti.com/esperienze-grand-tour/ 

Ph: Grand Tour Via delle Genti, Marco Benedetto Cerini