4.6
(187)
1,042
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Bosco Gurin offers access to Switzerland's highest village in Ticino, set amidst an alpine landscape. The region features prominent peaks like the Wandfluhhorn, providing expansive views over the Maggia Valley. Hikers can explore glacial lakes such as Schwarzsee and Üssera See, traverse larch forests and alpine meadows, and encounter waterfalls. Mountain passes like Passo Quadrella connect diverse valleys, contributing to the varied terrain.
Last updated: August 6, 2026
4.6
(18)
140
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(9)
54
hikers
10.4km
04:46
730m
730m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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4.6
(5)
35
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
34
hikers
9.04km
05:09
890m
890m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
7.22km
03:05
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Old Walser village with museum and original Walser houses to visit.
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The interesting thing about Bosco Gurin is that the Gurin German dialect is still spoken here. This makes it the only village in Ticino where German is spoken alongside Italian. Another fun fact is that the smallest Coop supermarket in Switzerland is located here. This isn't made up, but is confirmed by official signage from Coop itself. In addition to the many beautiful Walser houses, the long stable in front of the ski slope is also worth a visit.
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Pretty little village with the smallest COOP
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The smallest Coop store in Switzerland is located in the highest village in Ticino. There you can buy, for example, the fine, coarse Ticino polenta.
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By the way, in Bosco Gurin, the highest village in Ticino, there is the smallest Coop store in Switzerland.
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Bosco Gurin is the oldest settlement in the canton of Ticino. In the center you can still see some houses dating back to the 13th century.
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Like the Ender See. A rugged and mystical area.
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Bosco Gurin was founded in 1253 by Walser settlers. Located at 1504m, it is the highest village in the canton of Ticino.
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Bosco Gurin offers a diverse network of 18 hiking trails, ranging from moderate to difficult. These routes explore the unique alpine landscape, including glacial lakes, larch forests, and panoramic viewpoints.
While the guide data indicates most trails are moderate to difficult, Bosco Gurin is known for its family-friendly options. The "Ggurijnar Sentiero" is an adventure trail specifically designed for families, combining nature exploration with insights into Walser history. You can also find shorter, less strenuous walks around the village itself.
Generally, dogs are welcome on hiking trails in Bosco Gurin. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife. Please be mindful of local regulations and ensure your dog is well-behaved around other hikers and animals.
Yes, Bosco Gurin offers several popular circular routes. For example, the Bosco Gurin — Walser Village – Riale di Bosco Waterfalls loop is a moderate 7.3 km trail that explores the village and leads to scenic waterfalls. Another option is the Grossalp Hut and Alpine Pasture – Riale di Bosco Waterfalls loop, a 6.4 km route through alpine pastures.
Bosco Gurin's trails lead to stunning natural features. You can discover beautiful glacial lakes like Schwarzsee (Lago Melo) and Üssera See (Lago Pero), often found at altitudes exceeding 2400 meters. The region is also rich in larch forests, alpine meadows, and numerous waterfalls, including those along the Riale di Bosco. Passes like Passo Quadrella offer expansive 360-degree views.
Absolutely. Bosco Gurin is Switzerland's only German-speaking village in Ticino, preserving its unique Walser culture. You can visit the Walser Museum or follow the "Sentiero Walser" themed trail. Nearby, you might also explore the picturesque Foroglio village and waterfall in Val Bavona, or the Maggia Gorge and Waterfalls.
Bosco Gurin, being a popular starting point for hikes, offers general public parking facilities within or near the village. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot, especially for longer hikes.
The trails in Bosco Gurin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views, the unique Walser cultural experience, and the diverse terrain that includes everything from serene glacial lakes to challenging mountain passes.
Yes, some trails provide access to mountain huts. For instance, the Quadrella Pass – Grossalp Hut and Alpine Pasture loop leads to the cozy Capanna Grossalp hut, which is accessible via a chairlift from the village and offers refreshments and a place to rest during your hike.
The best time for hiking in Bosco Gurin is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to October), when the alpine meadows are lush, and the weather is most favorable. During winter, Bosco Gurin transforms into a snowy wonderland, popular for snowshoeing and winter hiking, offering a different but equally beautiful experience.
The region around Bosco Gurin features several natural water bodies. While glacial lakes like Schwarzsee are stunning, their water can be very cold. The Ri di Sfii, however, is known for its beautiful slides and crystalline pools, which might offer opportunities for a refreshing dip during warmer months.
Generally, no specific permits are required for day hiking on the established trails in Bosco Gurin. However, always respect private property, follow marked paths, and adhere to any local signage regarding protected areas or seasonal restrictions.


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