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Mergugno Sacred Wood

The mountain laburnum is the gem of the wood.

Venue

Locarno

In a wood with mountain laburnum unique to Switzerland, ancient species represent the evergreen spirit of the wood. In flowering time, between May and June, yellow cluster flowers are spectacular.

Pflanzen (Symbolbild)
Image: northlightimages, istockphoto.com

Departure from Mergugno, above Brissago. The excursion lasts approx. 1.5 hours (elevation gain: 460m). On the top of the Reserve, mountain paths lead to the Capanna Al Legn and to the Gridone. The itinerary takes place under big beeches and through a wood with mountain laburnum unique to Switzerland. In flowering time, between May and June, this wood attracts botanists and nature admirers that enjoy the exceptional view and the smell of the yellow cluster flowers. The laburnum, as the majority of leguminous plants, is poisonous. Wood decomposes slowly, this is why there is a lot of deadwood in the Reserve. In the upper part, ancient laburnums represent the evergreen spirit of the wood. Forest landscapes of our mountains are unique and the view on the Lake Maggiore is breathtaking.

The enhancement project of the Locarnese Forest Reserves was coordinated by the Locarnese National Park Project along with the expert advice of R. Buffi and the important support of the Canton Ticino Forest Department. The Mergugno forest Reserve offers more than 3km of pathways, classified as moutain hiking trails. Best time to visit: all year round (no snow). Best itinerary: Mergugno - Pislone - Alpe Arolgia - Capanna Al Legn (2 hours). Warning: mountain gear is compulsory.

Intended for

Age:
  • 14-18
  • 18+
  • 20-40
  • 55+

Activity

Content: simple

Interactivity: active

Inside/outside: outside

Categories

  • Nature parks
Languages: Italian
Weather dependent? No
Does it cost anything? No