The Ponte dei Salti (often translated as the “bridge of jumps”) is a stone footbridge with two arches that crosses the Verzasca river just outside Lavertezzo. It is free, open to everyone and set in a gorge of smooth grey gneiss slabs and pools of clear, jade-green water. It is often called the Roman bridge, although it is usually dated much later, to roughly the 16th or 17th century.
How to get to the bridge
The bridge is a short walk from the village centre, about 5 to 10 minutes by path. Parking and the bus stop are close, but spaces are limited in season. See the getting there page for routes from Locarno, Lugano, Zurich and Milan, and the parking prices and PostBus 321 pages for the details.
Best time to see it
| Time | What you get |
|---|---|
| Early morning | Calm, soft light, few people |
| Midday in July and August | Busiest, bright, swimmers on the slabs |
| Late afternoon | Warm light on the stone, crowds thinning |
| Spring | High, powerful water |
| Autumn | Gold leaves on the slopes |
For the full seasonal picture, see best time to visit Lavertezzo.
Swimming and jumping: read this first
Many visitors swim near the bridge in summer, and some jump from the rocks. The water is cold, depth changes with the river level, the rock is slippery and the Verzasca can rise within minutes after storms upstream. Do not swim during or after rain. Read the full swimming safety guide before you enter the water.
We do not recommend cliff jumping. Injuries and accidents happen here. If you choose to swim, stay close to the bank, never alone, and never when the water is high or brown.
What to bring
- Shoes with grip, because wet gneiss is slippery.
- Water, snacks and sun protection. There is little shade on the slabs.
- A towel and a dry bag if you swim.
- Cash or card for parking, as local rules vary.
Make it a full day
Combine the bridge with a riverside hike, the Verzasca Dam and the villages of Corippo and Sonogno. If you prefer a guide, our Verzasca Valley tours page lists the real options.
Where to stay for an early start
Sleeping in the valley lets you reach the bridge before the crowds. See the hotels guide.
Want to see the rest of the village? Read the Lavertezzo paese guide.
Frequently asked questions
What does Ponte dei Salti mean?
It translates roughly as the bridge of the jumps. The name comes from the habit of jumping into the river from the bridge and the rocks around it. We do not recommend jumping.
How old is the Ponte dei Salti?
It is often called the Roman bridge, but it is generally dated to the 16th or 17th century. Sources differ, so treat any exact date with caution.
Is there an entrance fee for the bridge?
No. It is a public bridge on a footpath, free to visit at any time.
Can you jump from the Ponte dei Salti?
People do, but water depth changes with the river level and there are hidden rocks. Jumping causes injuries, and we advise against it.
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