Day Hike in the Swiss Alps

Alps on a challenging day hike in Val Bondasca, a wild granite valley just across the Swiss border, a short drive from Lake Como and Chiavenna. If you are in Milan this hike is not far and it will give you a very nice glimpse of the Swiss Alps. This hike takes you from the village of Bondo to Capanna Sasc Furä, a small Swiss Alpine Club hut overlooking the legendary north ridge of Piz Badile and the impressive granite walls of the Sciora group.

A Day Hike in the Swiss Alps Among Legendary Granite Peaks

Val Bondasca is a narrow side valley of Val Bregaglia, surrounded by some of the most striking granite mountains in the Alps. At its head rise Piz Badile, Piz Cengalo and the jagged peaks of the Sciora group, creating a dramatic alpine landscape that feels far removed from the busier mountain destinations. Capanna Sasc Furä stands in an exceptional position facing the north ridge of Piz Badile, one of the most famous classic climbing routes in the Alps. This day hike in the Swiss Alps is an excellent choice for hikers looking for rugged scenery, spectacular mountain views and an authentic alpine atmosphere. Despite being close to Lake Como, Val Bondasca offers a very different experience: a remote mountain environment dominated by towering rock walls, deep gorges and the powerful presence of the surrounding peaks.
The Hiking Route to Capanna Sasc Furä
The full hike starts in Bondo, at 823 metres above sea level, near the Church of San Martino. From here, a forest road and old mountain paths lead into Val Bondasca, following the valley floor through chestnut and spruce forests. If you prefer a shorter day hike, it is possible to drive up the toll road into the valley and start from the car park at the end of the road. This option skips the initial section of the ascent and allows you to focus on the steeper, more alpine part of the route. From the car park, we follow the direct trail towards Capanna Sasc Furä. Closed after the 2017 Piz Cengalo landslide and reopened in summer 2026, the trail crosses the Bondasca torrent on a suspension bridge before continuing over a wooden footbridge above the Trubinasca gorge. The path then climbs steeply through the forest towards the hut. Some exposed sections are protected by chains, adding a little adventure to the ascent. Along the way, the landscape still bears visible traces of the landslide, a reminder of the powerful natural forces that shape these mountains.
Lunch at a Swiss Alpine Club Hut
After the climb, we reach Capanna Sasc Furä, where we can take a well-deserved break and enjoy the magnificent views of Piz Badile and the Sciora granite walls. The hut keeper serves homemade dishes, making this an ideal place to stop for lunch before starting the descent. Sitting here, surrounded by some of the most impressive rock faces in the Swiss Alps, is one of the highlights of the day. After lunch, we retrace our steps down the same trail, returning either to the car park or all the way to Bondo, depending on our starting point.

Is This Day Hike in the Swiss Alps Right for You?

This is a demanding mountain hike, suitable for hikers with good fitness and some experience on steep alpine trails. Although no climbing skills are required, you should be sure-footed and comfortable with heights, as some exposed sections are protected by chains. The route is not a technical climbing itinerary, but its steep terrain and rugged mountain environment make it more challenging than an easy walk. If you are looking for a day hike in the Swiss Alps near Lake Como that combines spectacular granite peaks, a wild alpine valley and the atmosphere of a traditional mountain hut, Val Bondasca and Capanna Sasc Furä offer a memorable mountain adventure. This hike is offered by a AMM Uimla guide from Lombardy.