Vigezzina-Centovalli Foliage Train: from the Alps to Lake Maggiore

Discover the multicolored beauty of the Vigezzina-Centovalli railway, which has been connecting Italy and Switzerland since 1923.

 

With its characteristic white and blue trains, this railway transforms the woods into a vibrant canvas of autumn colors. Traversing 52 km between bridges, tunnels, and railway hairpin bends, the trains offer panoramic views of the breathtaking autumn landscapes of Vigezzo Valley and Centovalli.

 

The foliage train ticket allows you to make a stop in the charming villages of the Vigezzo Valley and the Swiss towns overlooking Lake Maggiore.

Railway Vigezzina-Centovalli
Railway Vigezzina-Centovalli - ph. Christian Guerra

STARTING FROM DOMODOSSOLA OR LOCARNO

You can start the journey from Domodossola in Ossola or Locarno in Ticino.

 

Domodossola, the Italian terminus, boasts historic buildings, including the stunning Piazza Mercato. In contrast, Locarno, the Swiss terminus, offers views of Lake Maggiore and an ancient heart to be discovered.

 

Don’t miss the beautiful Santa Maria Maggiore, the main center, and highest railway station of the Vigezzo Valley. The Sanctuary of Re is another majestic stop on the foliage train route.

 

The Swiss part of the journey offers stunning views of the valleys, accessible by cable car from Intragna and Verdasio.

 

A few kilometers from Locarno lies Ascona, home to palm trees and exotic plants, with autumn reflected on the lake.

Railway Vigezzina-Centovalli - ph. Massimo Pedrazzini

Fun Facts

A day as a chimney sweep. In Val Vigezzo, the international gathering for an ancient profession

If you’re a history buff, the Chimney Sweep International Gathering in Val Vigezzo is a must-see. Every September, the squares of Santa Maria Maggiore are taken over by over 800 chimney sweeps, commemorating an ancient profession.

 

Those unable to attend can visit the Museo dello Spazzacamino.

www.museospazzacamino.it

CASA DEL PROFUMO: the true story of Eau de Cologne

Discover the true story of Eau de Cologne at the Casa del Profumo in Santa Maria Maggiore. This popular perfume, loved by Goethe, Napoleon, and Queen Victoria, has a German name but an all-Italian origin.

 

The museum offers a multimedia tour that tells the extraordinary story of this perfume.