Waterfall Cascata del Toce, Formazza Commune
Waterfall Cascata del Toce is a real gem hidden in the middle of the Alps. This beaty is one of the biggest and most powerful waterfalls not only of the Alpine mountains, but in all Europe. And it flows in the valley of an amazing beauty! Having been here once, you will remember the waterfall for the rest of your life, and it will definitely not be easy to leave this place.
Waterfall and hotel
Detailed study of the mountains began in the 17-18 century. The scientist and mountaineer Horace-Bénédict de Saussure was the pioneer in discovering of these places, and is considered to be the founder of mountaineering. In 1777 he discovered this waterfall, and later his followers explored the area. During many years, the waterfall was visited by Richard Wagner, Queen of the Austro-Hungarian Empire Margaret and King of Italy Vittorio Emanuele III. In 1863, a hotel was built near the highest point of the waterfall, which was reconstructed in 1926. It still functions, and it is especially loved by the tourists.
After walking a few steps down from the hotel, you can step onto the wooden bridge-balcony, which hangs over the waterfall. This is a fantastic viewing platform, from which you can see the entire valley, where the flow of water rushes. The height of the waterfall is 143 meters, the highest point is at an altitude of 1675, and the lowest point is 1532 meters above sea level. The waterfall has several cascades and extends from 20 meters on top to 60 meters at the base, it flows into the river of the same name. The artificial lake of Morasco is located a little above it, the waters of which are provided by hydroelectric power stations nearby. That is why all the beauty of the waterfall can be seen only in the warm season, and only on certain days.
How to get there
The Waterfall Cascata del Toce is located in the Formazza Commune, in the district of La Frua, in the north of Piedmont. Turin is 220 kilometers from here, but the Swiss border is only 10 kilometers away. You have to get there with transfers. It will be easier to get there from Milan, from the Central Station by train RE_4 to the city of Domodossola, then by bus to the Formazza Commune. From there to the waterfall it is about 5 kilometers. You can walk on foot (about an hour) or find out information about tourist buses and car rentals. Phone number of the tourist center of the commune (+39) 0324 63059.
