Explore the Verzasca Valley

It's easy to explore the Verzasca Valley by bus (Postauto), but exploring it by car gives you more flexibility to do so. From Locarno or Ascona, just follow the signs to Verzasca and you will soon find yourself in the valley. Be aware that the streets in the valley are quite narrow, so it's probably a good idea to use a small to medium sized car.

In the valley, after around 3km, you will arrive at the dam where they shot the opening scene for the James Bond 007 movie Goldeneye. If you want, you can take a bungee jump off the dam (April - October). It is actually the world's second highest commercial bungee jump and a thrilling experience for sure!

First, drive all the way to the end of the valley (about 25km) to the beautiful town of Sonogno. Park your car in the only available parking lot at the end of the valley, right in front of Sonogno. 

From there, take a short hike of about 1.5km to the Froda Waterfall (Cascate La Froda). Just follow the signs to “Grotto Efra” and about 500 meters passed it you will see the waterfalls on your left. You can hike up a short trail over two bridges to get closer to the waterfall from where you will have amazing photo opportunities.

On your way back you might wanna have lunch or dinner at the highly recommended Grotto Efra, which serves yummy local Ticino food. Afterwards, explore the authentic stone houses and maybe the local museum on your way back to the parking lot. 

On your drive back down the valley, there are plenty more places well worth the stop. You can hike, take photos, swim in the cold water, or just relax. Definitely, don't miss the picturesque town of Lavertezzo.