Switzerland: Valle Lavizzara – Mogno, Fusio & Lago del Sambuco in Ticino - the work of architects Mario Botta and Giovan Luigi Dazio
- 4B Travel Guide
- Nov 11
- 13 min read
Updated: Nov 11
Tour Name: Valle Lavizzara – The Hidden Alpine Gem of Ticino’s Maggia Valley
GPS: Enter Fusio, Ticino, Switzerland, latest destination point
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Short Description
Valle Lavizzara, a serene side valley of Vallemaggia, is one of Ticino’s most beautiful hidden regions. Stretching north from Cevio up to the alpine village of Fusio, it offers a rare combination of modern architecture, untouched landscapes, and authentic mountain life. The valley’s crown jewel is Mogno, home to the iconic Church of San Giovanni Battista by world-famous architect Mario Botta — a modern masterpiece rising from the ruins of a church destroyed by an avalanche in 1986. Higher up, Fusio and Lago del Sambuco invite you into pure alpine tranquillity.
Visiting Mogno, Fusio, and Lago del Sambuco offers a full sensory journey through Ticino’s Valle Lavizzara —from avant-garde architecture and living heritage to pristine alpine wilderness. Whether you’re tracing Mario Botta’s modern lines, sipping coffee in a centuries-old stone village, or gazing across turquoise waters, you’ll feel Ticino’s rare harmony between innovation and nature.
Important: Check our 4BTravelGuide's detailed picture albums and comments below:
Switzerland: Ticino’s Valle Lavizzara
Definition Ticino
Ticino is Switzerland’s southernmost canton, where the Alps meet Mediterranean charm. Italian-speaking, warm, and sunlit, it combines mountain majesty with lakeside elegance — a place where nature, culture, and architecture form a seamless dialogue.
Tour Highlights
Mogno & the Church of San Giovanni Battista – Marvel at Mario Botta’s geometric stone-and-marble marvel, one of Switzerland’s most photographed churches.
Fusio Village – Discover a timeless mountain village where architect Dazio has restored historic homes into architectural jewels.
Lago del Sambuco & Dam – Explore this glacial-blue lake framed by towering peaks and one of Switzerland’s most impressive hydroelectric dams.
Lavizzara Hikes – Walk the Mogno–Fusio trail, a scenic route through alpine forests, traditional stone hamlets, and flower-filled meadows.
Authentic Ticinese Experience – Enjoy peaceful moments, crystal-clear streams, and authentic grotto dining far from the crowds.
Recommended Stay
1–2 days for exploration and relaxation. Combine with a Vallemaggia or Brissago stay for a perfect long weekend.
Geographical Overview
Valle Lavizzara branches off from Cevio in Vallemaggia and stretches deep into the alpine heart of Ticino. The valley’s landscapes range from lush forests to high granite peaks, leading to the serene Lago del Sambuco at over 1,400 meters above sea level.
Main Locations on the Tour
Mogno – A small mountain village known worldwide for its modern church by Mario Botta, blending black granite and white marble in perfect harmony. Stroll among its traditional houses and admire how innovation and tradition coexist.
Fusio – The last inhabited village in the valley, Fusio exudes timeless charm. Many old houses were beautifully renovated by architect Dazio, preserving their authenticity while adding modern comfort.
Lago del Sambuco – A spectacular turquoise reservoir above Fusio, bordered by the 130-meter-high Sambuco Dam built in 1956. The area is ideal for peaceful walks, photography, and summer picnics.
Accessibility & Nearby Towns
Starting Point: Locarno or Brissago
By Car: Approx. 1 hour (50 km) from Brissago via Locarno and Cevio.
Public Transport: Train to Locarno + PostBus to Cevio and further to Mogno/Fusio.
Road Condition: The road from Cevio upward is narrow and winding — perfect for scenic drives.
Driving Map: Google Maps – Valle Lavizzara Route
Interests
Architecture | Nature | Photography | Hiking | Culture | Relaxation
Tour Type
Cultural & Architectural Discovery | Scenic Drive | Alpine Hiking
Physical Effort
Easy to Moderate – short hikes and village walks.
Adventure Type
Architectural Tourism | Nature Exploration | Alpine Retreat
Language Spoken
Italian (mainly), German and English are widely understood in tourist areas.
Risks
Narrow mountain roads; limited mobile coverage in the upper valley; sudden alpine weather changes — bring light jackets and good shoes.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early autumn (May–October). Summer offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures; early autumn adds golden colours and quiet charm.
Weather Considerations
Expect warm, sunny days (20–26°C) in summer, cooler temperatures near Fusio and Lago del Sambuco (10–15°C). Always bring a light jacket and sun protection.
History
The Lavizzara Valley has a deep rural history rooted in mountain farming and stone craftsmanship. The 1986 avalanche in Mogno destroyed the old San Giovanni church, leading to Mario Botta’s bold modern reconstruction — now an icon of Swiss architectural rebirth. The Sambuco Dam, completed in 1956, marked the valley’s transformation into a key hydroelectric site, balancing innovation and tradition.
Why Visit Today
Valle Lavizzara is Ticino’s quiet masterpiece — where raw alpine beauty meets modern design. Bath in crystal-clear rivers, enjoy sunbathing on smooth granite rocks, or simply unwind in a village where time slows down. Free from industrial noise and crowds, the air here feels as pure as the water flowing from the mountains.
Detailed Travel Information
Route: Brissago → Locarno → Cevio → Mogno → Fusio → Lago del SambucoDistance: ~50 km | Duration: 1 hr by carPublic Transport: Locarno – Cevio – Mogno (PostBus Line)
Official Hiking Map: Mogno–Fusio Trail (wegwandern.ch)
4BTravelGuide Tips
Start early in the morning for best light and fewer cars.
Bring a wide-angle lens for the Mogno Church interior.
Eat at a local grotto in Fusio — homemade polenta and cheese are a must.
Carry a bottle — the mountain water here is so clean it’s nearly drinkable.
Recommended Stops
1️⃣ Mogno Village & Church of San Giovanni Battista
2️⃣ Fusio Village & Restored Stone Houses
3️⃣ Lago del Sambuco & Dam Viewpoint
4️⃣ Lavizzara Hiking Trail
1️⃣ Mogno — The Mountain Village of Marble and Light
Perched at 1,180 meters above sea level in the heart of Valle Lavizzara, Mogno is a tiny alpine village that has earned worldwide recognition as a masterpiece of architecture and renewal. Once a quiet hamlet of stone houses, almost entirely destroyed by an avalanche in 1986, Mogno has risen from its tragedy to become a living architectural museum, where heritage and innovation blend in perfect harmony.
At its center stands the extraordinary Church of San Giovanni Battista, designed by the renowned Swiss architect Mario Botta. Constructed from alternating layers of white marble and dark Vallemaggia granite, the church is a poetic dialogue between light and shadow, fragility and strength. Its minimalist geometry and ethereal interior create a space that feels at once ancient and modern — a symbol of rebirth rising from the mountains that once buried the old village.
History & Architecture In 1986, an avalanche destroyed Mogno’s original 17th-century church. The community’s decision to rebuild it sparked global attention when Mario Botta was chosen to design the new structure.
Completed in 1996, the new Church of San Giovanni Battista redefines sacred architecture. It is built from alternating layers of white Peccia marble and black Riveo granite, both sourced locally, creating a hypnotic striped pattern that mirrors the surrounding mountains. The elliptical plan, open glass roof, and interplay of light and shadow evoke both rebirth and timelessness.
Mario Botta — The Visionary Behind Mogno’s Iconic Church
In the small alpine village of Mogno, one of Switzerland’s most extraordinary modern churches rises from the heart of the valley — the Church of San Giovanni Battista, designed by world-renowned Swiss architect Mario Botta.
After an avalanche destroyed the original 17th-century church in 1986, the local community turned to Botta to create a new place of worship. His response was both bold and poetic: a structure of alternating layers of white marble and dark granite, echoing the mountains that surround it. The design embodies a delicate balance between strength and spirituality — a modern sanctuary firmly rooted in the ancient stone of Ticino.
Completed in 1996, the Mogno Church has since become a global architectural landmark, studied and admired for its geometric precision, harmony of light, and symbolic dialogue between destruction and rebirth. Inside, natural light filters through the glass roof, creating a serene atmosphere that transforms with the movement of the sun — a living expression of faith and nature intertwined.
Beyond Mogno, Mario Botta’s architectural footprint extends across Switzerland and the world, from the Ticino region’s museums and theatres to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Kyobo Tower in Seoul. Yet, the Mogno Church remains one of his most personal and profound works — a tribute to the resilience of mountain life and the timeless spirit of human creativity.
Yet, Mogno’s architectural charm extends far beyond Botta’s masterpiece. Thanks to the work of local architect Giovan Luigi Dazio, many of the surrounding traditional stone houses (rustici) have been carefully restored and reimagined, preserving their rustic exteriors while introducing subtle elements of modern design.
These projects transform Mogno into an open-air gallery, where every building tells a story — of endurance, craftsmanship, and the delicate balance between the past and the present.
Walking through Mogno feels like stepping into a dialogue between nature, art, and human vision
What to Do in Mogno
Visit the Church: Step inside to experience the dramatic light that pours from the glass ceiling — a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
Photography: Capture the bold contrast of the marble stripes against the rugged alpine backdrop.
Village Walk: Stroll through the cluster of traditional Ticinese stone houses (rustici) that contrast beautifully with Botta’s modernist lines.
Local Crafts: In summer, small stalls sell local honey, alpine cheese, and wood carvings.
Travel Tips
Altitude: 1 180 m — bring a light jacket even in summer.
Access: 30 min drive north of Cevio / 1 h from Locarno.
Nearby Hike: Start the gentle Mogno–Fusio trail (approx. 4 km, 1 h 15 min).
2️⃣ Fusio — Where Time Stands Still
Continue a few kilometers beyond Mogno and you reach Fusio, the last permanently inhabited village in Valle Lavizzara. Set at 1 280 m altitude, it feels like a step back in time: narrow cobblestone lanes, slate-roofed stone houses, and the soft sound of the Maggia River below.
Architect Giovan Luigi Dazio — Reviving Tradition with Modern Vision
In the quiet village of Fusio, tradition meets innovation thanks to the remarkable work of architect Giovan Luigi Dazio. Over the years, Dazio has dedicated himself to restoring and reimagining Ticino’s old stone houses, breathing new life into these historic alpine dwellings while preserving their timeless soul.
His architectural approach is rooted in respect for the original materials — granite, wood, and slate — yet subtly infused with modern design elements, creating spaces that feel both authentic and contemporary. The result is a harmonious dialogue between past and present: rustic exteriors that blend into the surrounding mountains, and minimalist, light-filled interiors that reflect today’s aesthetic sensibilities.
Dazio’s projects in Fusio and across Valle Lavizzara have become a benchmark for sustainable restoration and architectural sensitivity. They demonstrate how heritage can evolve without losing its essence — transforming forgotten houses into living works of art that celebrate the enduring beauty of Ticino’s mountain culture.
Character & Renovation Fusio’s charm lies in its authentic architecture — houses built from local stone, often nestled beneath enormous boulders for protection against avalanches. In recent years, architect Dazio and others have led sensitive renovations that preserved the centuries-old facades while integrating discreet modern comforts inside. The result: an open-air museum of living heritage, where history and modern design meet gracefully.
The Hotel and Restaurant Fusio, built in 1880, has long been a beloved meeting place for both locals and travellers. After a 46-year “Sleeping Beauty” slumber, it was carefully restored in 2017 by architect Giovan Luigi Dazio and now shines once again — as a place of encounters and an oasis of tranquillity.
More info online https://hotelfusio.ch/it/
What to Do in Fusio
Village Walk: Wander through the alleys to admire restored rustici, small chapels, and the village square.
Local Cuisine: Eat at a grotto or mountain inn — order polenta con formaggio d’alpe or risotto ai funghi.
Architecture Tour: Seek out Dazio’s renovated houses, examples of sustainable alpine design.
Riverside Relaxation: Find sunny granite rocks by the stream to read, picnic, or simply breathe mountain air.
Start a Hike: Trails lead to Lago del Sambuco or to alpine pastures with sweeping valley views.
Travel Tips
Altitude: ≈ 1 280 m — temperatures are cooler year-round.
Parking: Small lots at the village entrance; explore on foot.
Best Light: Late afternoon, when sunlight glows on the stone walls.
3️⃣ Lago del Sambuco — Mirror of the Alps
Above Fusio lies Lago del Sambuco, a spectacular turquoise reservoir set amid jagged peaks. The lake was created by the Sambuco Dam, completed in 1956, rising 130 m high and stretching 363 m across the valley. Beyond its engineering prowess, the lake is an oasis of peace and a paradise for photographers, walkers, and nature lovers.
What to See and Do
Walk Along the Dam: Feel the scale of Swiss precision engineering while enjoying panoramic views over the valley.
Photography Spot: Capture reflections of clouds and mountains on the lake’s glass-calm surface.
Picnic Area: Grassy slopes and smooth granite rocks make perfect sunbathing spots. The water, fed by glacial streams, is astonishingly clear — though icy cold!
Short Hike: Follow the marked trail that circles part of the lake and continues into the high-alpine pastures toward Passo del Naret.
Wildlife Watching: Ibex, marmots, and golden eagles are common sights.
Travel Tips
Access: Drive or hike from Fusio (approx. 6 km). The road is paved but narrow.
Season: June – September (closed in winter due to snow).
Facilities: Small parking near the dam; no cafés — bring water and snacks.
Altitude: ≈ 1 460 m — expect cool breezes even on sunny days.
3️⃣ Eating in a Grotto — Grotto Pozzasc, Valle Lavizzara
Nestled deep in the lush heart of Valle Lavizzara, just a few minutes’ drive from Mogno and Fusio, lies one of Ticino’s most enchanting dining experiences — Grotto Pozzasc in Peccia.Perched beside the crystal-clear waters of the Peccia River, this traditional stone grotto invites you to slow down, savour, and reconnect with the flavours of Ticino’s alpine heritage.
Switzerland
💧 Devastation at Grotto Pozzasc — Valle Lavizzara’s Beloved Riverside Grotto Hit by the 2024 Floods
In the summer of 2024, heavy rains and flash floods struck Ticino’s alpine valleys with unprecedented force, leaving behind a trail of destruction — and Valle Lavizzara was among the hardest hit. One of the most heartbreaking sights was the devastation of Grotto Pozzasc in Peccia, a cherished riverside restaurant known for its charm, authenticity, and peaceful location by the crystal-clear Peccia River.
In 2025, we were there, and the grotto was reopened! Local nature is quietly restoring herself.
A Hidden Gem by the River
The Grotto Pozzasc sits in an idyllic forest setting, next to a natural pool formed by the Peccia River — its waters so clear they look drinkable. Originally a water mill, the grotto has been lovingly transformed into a cozy restaurant that blends rustic charm with genuine hospitality.
Under new management since Spring 2023, it continues to delight visitors with warm service and authentic regional cuisine.
The terrace, shaded by chestnut trees and surrounded by the sound of rushing water, is one of the most romantic and peaceful spots in the Lavizzara Valley.
The Food Experience
At Grotto Pozzasc, everything revolves around tradition and simplicity — done perfectly.Each day, polenta is slowly cooked over a wood-fired hearth and served with local cheeses, luganighetta sausages, mortadella ticinese, or tender braised meats (brasato, coda di bue, trippa).Other favourites include hearty minestrone, fresh salads, and homemade cakes baked daily.Pair your meal with a glass of Merlot del Ticino and end with a splash of nocino, the walnut liqueur typical of the region.
Practical Information
📍 Location: Al Fiume – 6695 Peccia (Valle Lavizzara, Ticino)
📞 +41 91 755 16 04
🗺️ Google Maps
🚗 Access: From Locarno, follow Vallemaggia → Cevio → Peccia.
At the Valle di Peccia–Fusio crossroads, turn left, cross the bridge, then left again — follow the forest road for 400 m.
🕓 Opening: Daily in summer; closed on Mondays.
Seating: ≈ 30 indoor | 80 outdoor | ample parking nearby.
Why Visit
Authentic Ticinese cooking in a peaceful, riverside setting
Ideal lunch stop before or after visiting Mogno or Lago del Sambuco
Family-friendly yet romantic, with space to relax by the water
A genuine taste of Ticino — no rush, no noise, just nature and flavour
4B Travel Guide Tip:Reserve a table near the river on a sunny day — the light filtering through the trees and the sound of water make it an unforgettable dining experience.
Peccia Marble — The White Heart of Valle Lavizzara
Deep in the upper reaches of Valle Lavizzara, near the village of Peccia, lies one of Switzerland’s most remarkable natural resources — Peccia marble, or Marmo di Peccia. This fine white marble, unique to the valley, has been quarried for centuries and remains a symbol of Ticino’s fusion of nature, art, and craftsmanship.
What makes Peccia marble so exceptional is its purity and texture. It is a brilliant white stone with a subtle crystalline structure, giving it a natural luminosity that reflects the surrounding alpine light. The marble is known for being dense, durable, and easy to polish, making it highly prized among sculptors and architects alike.
The Peccia marble quarry, located at over 1,000 meters above sea level, is the only active marble quarry in Switzerland. It has supplied material for prestigious architectural and artistic projects across Europe, yet production remains small-scale and respectful of the environment.
Just below the quarry lies the Centro Internazionale di Scultura di Peccia (Peccia International Sculpture Center) — a unique cultural space where artists from around the world come to work with this extraordinary stone. The center promotes a dialogue between art, landscape, and material, hosting workshops, exhibitions, and residencies that celebrate the creative spirit of the region.
Visiting Peccia offers more than just a glimpse into stonework — it’s an invitation to experience Ticino’s living heritage, where the timeless beauty of marble continues to inspire art, architecture, and design.
Special Events
Check the several annual Lavizzara summer festivals in Fusio – local food, music, and craft fair celebrating Ticinese culture and architecture.
Closing Remarks
Valle Lavizzara is a journey into balance — between innovation and tradition, human craft and nature’s artistry.From Mario Botta’s striking church to the tranquil waters of Lago del Sambuco, every curve of the valley tells a story of resilience, beauty, and quiet Swiss perfection.
Discover Valle Lavizzara — Ticino’s architectural heart hidden in the mountains.
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