Val Veddasca

Val Veddasca is in the northern part of the Varese province, and is still today quite solitary and wild, with many remaining of the pre-alpine rural culture. Human settlements in the valley are very ancient, and many prehistoric graffiti were found.

Val Veddasca Forcora

Cut through by the Giona river, that flows down from Mount Tamaro to lake Maggiore, the valley has no connection between the two sides. The area is characterized essentially by forest-type vegetation, with chestnut trees on the hills and beech tree and mixed woods on the mountains. The top of the right side, with Mounts Borgna, Cadrigna, Sirti and Paglione, hosts a variety of vegetation representing the different stages of re-growth after the abandonment of the pastures.

Also typical of this valley are the stone houses, built one right next to the other. The right side of the valley has many small villages kept together by the winding road from Maccagno to Indemini, while the other side is more abandoned. These villages have been often isolated by the unsafe roads with the only other option being the old trails. The total abandonment of the traditional agricultural and pastoral activities leads to decay and the disappearing of open spaces.

Val Veddasca Forcora

Particularly interesting is the Forcora pass (1179 m), starting point for hikes on the surrounding mountains and where, in winter, you can ski and cross-country ski.