Brione Verzasca-Starlaresc Hut-Brione Verzasca

The two-day circular route starts and ends at Brione Verzasca, reachable by car or bus (Locarno-Tenero-Sonogno line). Brione Verzasca is a mecca for bouldering enthusiasts and mountain lake swims.

The route ascends passing Sparvé and Scimarmòta, where there is a small detour to Lake Starlaresc from Scimarmòta. Returning to the path, you climb a scree slope below Pizzo Costisc (part of the Via Alta Vallemaggia) up to the ridge. From here you enjoy an impressive panorama of the Masnee and Pianca small lakes. The route continues towards Cima del Masnee (above the Alpe Masnee Refuge) to Passo Deva, then descends in a steep zig-zag to Lake Starlaresc and the namesake unattended hut (open from June to October), where overnighting is possible.

The small lake invites a refreshing dip in an alpine setting. After a long descent crossing the Alpe di Sgiòf and the white-red path to Piano del Vald, you return to Brione.