Valle Maggia - Exploring Ticino's original Grottos

Immigration, technology, and tourism have significantly altered the culinary traditions of our valleys. 

While you might now find spaghetti or french fries on the menu of a Grotto (a traditional Ticino restaurant), these dishes are far from the original fare and purpose of the Grotto. 

On this tour, we'll dive into the history of Ticino’s valley, with a special focus on food, its preservation, and production. We'll explore the unique world of Grottos amidst the stunning scenery of Valle Maggia.  

We'll wrap up the tour with a tasting session of local products by an association dedicated to promoting regional food. 

This tour is in collaboration with the Museum of Valle Maggia.

Route

A LocarnoB Via ai Grotti 71, Ponte Brolla, TegnaC Boschetto 8, CevioD Cevio Vecchio 6/12, CevioE Piazza 3, CevioF CevioG Maggia

First Stop: Ponte Brolla 

Step into history at this grotto, a pivotal stop for Genoa-bound caravans before their journey across the Atlantic. In the 19th to 20th centuries, 30,000 Ticino residents set sail for California looking for a better life. With emigration, technology and tourism important culinary transformations happened in Ticino. 

Second Stop: Moghegno

Third Stop: Boschetto 

Nestled in Valle Maggia, Boschetto's tales of yesteryear await discovery. Through the Boschetto Landscape Project led by an association (APAV), the village's historic charm is restored, including traditional food processing tools. Explore Boschetto's ancient chestnut forests and vineyards, steeped in Ticino's culinary heritage. 

Fourth Stop: Cevio 

Tucked away in the forest, massive rocks form shelters for food and drinks. With a guide, explore over 60 grottos nestled beneath a landslide caused by a rock wall's collapse. Uncover the secrets of these ancient hideaways in a journey through nature's raw beauty and human ingenuity. 

Cap off your tour with a delightful apero hosted by an association fueled by the passion of six dedicated women. These volunteers pour their hearts into selecting local products bursting with unique flavors, ensuring each bite tells a story of the region's rich culinary heritage. Join us as we raise a toast to community, creativity, and the vibrant tastes of our land.