About The Verzasca Dam
Available: All year but particularly recommended for Apr-Oct.
Example travel costs - book locally
All prices are per person, in 2nd class (where relevant)
Swiss Travel Pass: FREEÂ
Ticino Ticket: FREEÂ
Half Fare Card: 6 Sfr return from Locarno
Rising above
the emerald waters of Lago di Vogorno, the Verzasca Dam is one of Switzerland’s
most striking feats of engineering - and a magnet for thrill-seekers and
sightseers alike. Completed in 1965 the dam was built mainly to produce
hydroelectric power for the region and today it stands as both a vital energy source and an iconic landmark. This is a famous spot for bungee jumping - but the walk over the 380m long wall may be thrilling enough for most, especially if you dare to peer down the 220m into the depths.Â
Take time to explore upriver - the water is a remarkably clear, the riverside is extremely scenic, and the Ponte dei Salti bridge a picturesque delight.
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Contact us to book your holiday
Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com
Highlights
Impressive engineering landmark
Standing at
around 220m high, the Verzasca Dam is one of the tallest in Switzerland. Its
elegant curved concrete wall sits dramatically between steep alpine cliffs,
offering visitors a striking example of modern hydroelectric engineering set
within a natural mountain amphitheatre. A small museum inside the wall of the dam provides information about the history and function of the building.
World-famous 007 bungee jump
Adventure
seekers can experience the legendary '007 Bungee Jump', made famous in the
opening scene of GoldenEye starring Pierce Brosnan. Leaping 220m into the gorge
below is considered one of the most thrilling jumps in the world, attracting
adrenaline enthusiasts from across the globe.Â
The
surrounding area is ideal for active visitors, with opportunities for hiking
along mountain trails, canyoning through rocky gorges, swimming in natural
pools, and cycling through scenic valley routes.
Spectacular alpine scenery and photography
The dam is
surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Verzasca Valley, where rugged rock
faces, pine-covered hills, and clear mountain air create a truly unforgettable
backdrop. The contrast between the smooth concrete dam and the wild natural
environment makes it especially photogenic. You can also capture some great photos from the top of the dam when you walk across the top.
Keen photographers also may like to visit the impossibly romantic Ponte dei Salti bridge in Lavertezzo, another postcard-perfect viewpoint and just a short bus ride away. Early morning and late afternoon light
make the scenery especially dramatic.
Turquoise waters of Lake Vogorno and the Verzasca River
Below the
dam, the water is famously clear and vibrant in colour, shifting between
emerald and turquoise shades depending on the light. The river is known for its
purity and visibility, making it a favourite spot for scuba divers and nature
lovers. The river offers natural rock 'jacuzzis', smooth boulders for sunbathing, and numerous swimming spots - although the currents can be unexpectedly strong, so caution is advised.
Charming nearby villages
Within a short bus ride, traditional stone villages such as Lavertezzo and Corippo offer a glimpse into
authentic Swiss-Italian culture. Narrow lanes, stone houses, and peaceful
squares reflect the region’s long history and slow pace of life. Look out for vineyards and flourishing chestnut trees - in the autumn, the nuts are harvested and made into all sorts of sweet delicacies.Â
Directions
There is a
direct bus service from Locarno to Diga Verzasca (23mins) or a combination of
train and local bus via Tenero (33mins).
The journey from Lugano is by train
and local bus (50mins).
Please check
before travel for maintenance closures.
Photography (c) Ticino Tourism
Request your holiday quotation
Call us on 0800 619 1200 or email us at info@swissholidayco.com