It is exactly these geological structures that make Breggia Gorges Park in the Muggio Valley the best geopark in the country. About 80 million years ago, between the Jurassic and Tertiary Periods, water began eroding the rocks, creating the formations we see today. The stones hold the evidence of these ancient seas: fossils, the remains of underwater avalanches and signs of climate change that all occurred before humans ever existed. These finds make it possible to reconstruct the evolution of Monte Generoso’s basin in the very distant past.

The Park is alive with plants and animals, many of which are endangered or protected species. This region also boasts historically and culturally interesting buildings such as the Rote Kirche Church from the 14th century and the 12th century castle of Castel San Pietro. The historic streets are also worth exploring. The Park has two paths: one offering a geological tour and the other a historical tour.

Getting there: The Park can be reached both by public transport (Balerna train station) and car. There is an information point and car park at the Ghitello Mill.