This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)

In the municipality of Cannobio, in the province of Verbano Cusio Ossola, Cannobino Stream has carved out the rocks of the valley over the years, creating several inlets and real lakes. In some cases, the waters are much more impetuous than in the river itself, due to the differences in height; in other areas, the pools are calmer and ideal for a refreshing swim.

“Orrido” of Sant’Anna is a wonderful natural oasis where visitors can relax and enjoy the fresh air and the tree shade near the water, less than 2 miles from Lake Maggiore.

The green and crystal-clear water, where brown trouts are abundant, reaches a summer temperature of 59-65 F° in summer, while in winter can drop to 35-37 F°. It is the ideal place to escape the heat of the city and relax by taking a swim; it is also popular with divers, as it some 82-ft deep.

A small and evocative medieval bridge, reserved to pedestrians, overlooks the ravine and offers a truly eye-catching sight.

The Church of Sant’Anna is on top of the Orrido cliff and can be seen from the pond below.
In the small church, which was built in 1683, visitors can admire an ancient frescoed chapel dedicated to the Madonna of Loreto and a wondrous high altar decorated with twisted black marble columns and numerous friezes.

How to get there

Reach Cannobio then turn left and follow the signs to Cannobina Valley. After less than half a mile, take the road on the right leading to Orrido. Continue along the valley: after about half a mile, at a crossroads, take the road uphill to the left. Further on, you will find a tourist sign on the right and a small road that descends to the exit from the ravine.

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)