Witches' Loop Trail

This loop tour is approximately 16.5 km (10.2 miles) long and typically takes around 4 hours and 13 minutes to hike. While parts of the route, like the 'Anello delle Streghe' itself, can be shorter, this specific komoot tour offers a more extensive experience.

The terrain is varied, featuring a mix of dirt roads, gravel paths, and some asphalt sections. You'll walk through open countryside, cultivated fields, and tranquil woods along the Ticino River. The path also follows the Sforzesco Canal and the Witches' Branch of the Ticino, known for its aquatic plants.

The tour is rated as moderate. While some sections, particularly the core 'Anello delle Streghe', are considered easy with few elevation changes, the overall length and duration of this specific komoot tour make it more suitable for hikers with some experience or those comfortable with longer distances. It's generally accessible for most hikers, but not ideal for strollers.

While the specific starting point can vary, Vigevano is the primary access point. You can typically find parking in or around Vigevano, especially near the historic center or residential areas, to begin your loop tour. Public transport options to Vigevano are also available.

The tour offers a rich blend of natural beauty and historical sites. You'll pass by the unique Witches' Branch of the Ticino, known for its folklore and diverse aquatic plants. Historical highlights include the Ecomuseum Mora Bassa (a 15th-century villa with Leonardo da Vinci connections), the Church of San Francesco d'Assisi, and the stunning Ducal Square, Vigevano. The route also goes through the northern part of the Ticino Park, including the hamlet of Buccella.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially when passing through cultivated fields, near wildlife, or in more populated areas. Always remember to clean up after your pet to preserve the natural environment.

Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons to hike this trail. The weather is usually mild, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant. In spring, you'll see blooming aquatic plants along the Witches' Branch, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially in open areas.

No, you do not need a specific permit or to pay an entrance fee to hike this trail within the Parco Lombardo della Valle del Ticino. The park is freely accessible to the public. However, always respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife or plants.

Yes, this tour utilizes sections of several other official trails. A significant portion of the route follows the 'Anello delle Streghe' (53%). You'll also traverse parts of the 'Anello Lomellino Pavia-Vigevano-Mortara-Lomello-Pavia' (38%) and 'Lomellina Uno: da Vigevano a Mortara 35 km' (31%), among others.

The 'Witches' Branch' (Ramo delle Streghe) gets its name from a local legend. It's said that on full moon Saturday nights, women would gather in this area to perform purification rituals for companions believed to be possessed. This folklore adds a mystical charm to the natural beauty of the area.

While the trail itself winds through natural and rural areas, you'll find amenities in Vigevano at the start and end of your tour. Along the route, particularly in hamlets like Buccella or near the Ecomuseum Mora Bassa, there might be limited facilities. It's always advisable to carry enough water and snacks for the duration of your hike.