This is a short stage that allows you to have time to visit the Fortified house in Formazza and to admire the valuable examples of Walser architecture in the different hamlets. From the centre of the village of Ponte you cross the Toce River over the bridge before the ENEL power station and follow the G00d path that passes high above Brendo along pleasant paths and then becomes a track that continues up to the height of Grovella. Then the track becomes steeper and to get to Canza you have to climb a hump, called "il Cree". Once in Canza, do not cross the river but continue along a track that runs along the river which becomes a steep path after a while that goes over a further hump until you reach Sottofrua. From here you continue straight ahead along a wide path that leads to the bridge right at the foot of the spectacular Cascata del Toce waterfalls. Near the hairpin bend in the road the beautiful steep, stepped mule track that runs alongside the waterfall begins. Once you reach the top of the waterfall you continue to the car park behind the historic Albergo della Cascata where a sign indicates the start of the old mule track that goes over a hump, reaches La Frua di sopra and continues halfway up the hillside to the centre of Fondo di Riale and then to Riale.

Walser culture and architecture in Formazza. Casa Forte in Ponte, Cascata del Toce waterfall, Piana di Riale

Possibility of refreshment and accommodation at Cascata del Toce

A26 Motorway as far as Gravellona Toce, then Superstrada SS33 del Sempione, junction for Valle Antigorio Formazza. After a long tunnel, continue on SS 659 della Valle Antigorio Formazza as far as Formazza and Riale 

Source: Unione Montana Alta Ossola
Itinerary code: VSB
Phone coverage: Good
Recommended period: May-October
Historical interest: Yes
Access by public transport: Yes
Classification: Medium and low mountain provincial
Provinces crossed: Distretto dei Laghi