Lago di Vogorno, the reservoir behind the Verzasca Dam

Vogorno and the Lago di Vogorno at the mouth of the valley

Vogorno is the first village you reach on the valley road, above the turquoise reservoir behind the Verzasca Dam. It is a quiet stop with a very old church and good views.

Photo: Wladyslaw, CC BY-SA 3.0

By Lavertezzo.com editors · Updated

Vogorno marks the start of the upper valley. Coming from Locarno or Gordola, you pass the Verzasca Dam, climb along the Lago di Vogorno, and see the village on the slope. It is easy to skip, but a short stop rewards you.

What to see

  • The lake. A long reservoir of green water, best seen from viewpoints on the road and from the village paths.
  • The village. A small stone settlement on the valley side with a quiet centre.
  • San Bartolomeo. A church reported as the oldest in the valley, from the 13th century, with Byzantine-style decoration. Access depends on opening times.
  • The dam. At the lower end of the lake, see the Verzasca Dam page for the curved wall, the crest walk and the bungee operator.

Plan the stop

Vogorno fits the first hour of a valley day: dam first, a pause by the lake, then on to the village of Lavertezzo and the Ponte dei Salti. By PostBus ask the driver or check the timetable for stops along the lake. See how to get to Lavertezzo.

Water safety. Reservoir water is cold and levels can change. Do not swim where signs forbid it, and read the swimming safety guide for the river upstream.

Next doorVerzasca DamCrest walk free30 to 60 minThe 220 m wall, GoldenEye jumpRead guide Brione VerzascaFreeAbout 1 hourStone houses, frescoesRead guide

Where to stay

Stay close to the bridge in Lavertezzo or in Locarno for more choice. See hotels near Lavertezzo.

Find a stay near the valley

Frequently asked questions

What is Lago di Vogorno?

The reservoir created by the Verzasca Dam, in the lower valley. It is a long, narrow lake with green water, framed by wooded slopes.

What is there to see in Vogorno?

The village, the church of San Bartolomeo, which is reported as the oldest church in the valley (13th century, with Byzantine-style decoration), and views over the lake.

Is Vogorno on the way to Lavertezzo?

Yes. The valley road from Locarno passes the dam, the lake and Vogorno before it reaches Lavertezzo.

Can I swim in Lago di Vogorno?

Treat reservoirs with caution. Water is cold, levels and currents change, and rules vary. Follow local signs and see our safety page for the river.

Is the dam near Vogorno?

The Verzasca Dam is at the lower end of the lake, a short drive from Vogorno. See the dam page for the walk on the crest and the bungee jump.

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Keep planning

Verzasca Dam Verzasca Dam (Diga di Contra) near Locarno: 220 m high, famous for the GoldenEye jump, how to visit, the bungee jump and the lake above. Read guide Lavertezzo village Lavertezzo paese (the village): stone houses, church, the Ponte dei Salti, the Sentiero per l'Arte, where to eat and park, and how long to stay. Read guide Getting there How to get to Lavertezzo and Ponte dei Salti from Locarno, Lugano, Zurich and Milan: driving times, the PostBus along the valley, trains and parking tips. Read guide Hikes Hiking around Lavertezzo and the Verzasca Valley: riverside walks to the Ponte dei Salti, paths to Corippo and Sonogno, trail signs, safety and maps. Read guide Brione Verzasca Brione Verzasca in the Verzasca Valley: historic stone houses, the church with medieval frescoes, Castello Marcacci, walks, PostBus and how it fits a day trip. Read guide