The Verzasca Dam, also known as the Diga di Contra or Contra Dam, closes the lower end of the valley above the town of Gordola. It is an arch dam about 220 metres high, completed in the mid-1960s, and it holds back Lago di Vogorno, a long green reservoir. You pass it on the road to Lavertezzo, so it makes an easy first stop.
Why people come
- The view. The wall curves above the gorge, and the scale only makes sense when you stand on or near the crest.
- GoldenEye. The opening scene of the 1995 film GoldenEye shows a jump from the dam, and the site has been famous since.
- The bungee jump. A commercial bungee jump of about 220 m runs from the dam. It is a serious activity: check the operator’s website for current dates, age and weight limits, health conditions and booking rules. We do not run it, and we do not earn from it.
- The lake. Lago di Vogorno is long and narrow, with steep wooded sides. It is a pleasant place to stop for views.
How to visit
From Locarno or Gordola, follow the signs for Valle Verzasca. The dam appears after a short drive up the valley road. Parking is limited near the wall, so allow a bit of time in summer.
| Option | What it involves |
|---|---|
| Stop for photos | A few minutes, on your way up the valley |
| Walk the crest | 20 to 30 minutes with views of the gorge and the lake |
| Bungee jump | Booked with the operator in advance, minimum age and weight rules apply |
Be careful near edges and with children. Heights here are real. Keep to marked areas and watch the traffic on the narrow road.
Combine with Lavertezzo
The dam and the Ponte dei Salti are about 20 to 30 minutes apart by car. Many visitors do both in the same morning. Read how to get to Lavertezzo for routes, and see Verzasca Valley tours for guided days that include the dam.
Safety
The reservoir and river are not swimming spots at the dam. The swimming safety page explains how the river behaves further up the valley.
Hotels in Locarno, near the valley mouth
Just above the dam: Vogorno and the Lago di Vogorno.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is the Verzasca Dam?
About 220 metres. It is a curved arch dam completed in the mid-1960s and also called the Contra Dam, after the nearby locality.
Can you bungee jump from the Verzasca Dam?
Yes. A commercial bungee jump of about 220 m operates from the dam. Book through the operator and check their age, weight and health rules.
Which film was shot at the Verzasca Dam?
The opening scene of the 1995 James Bond film GoldenEye shows a jump from the dam, which made it internationally famous.
Can you walk on the dam?
The crest can be visited on foot. Conditions and access can change, so follow the signs and local advice.
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