Cannobio: Old Town, Churches and Trails along the Cannobino

If you are looking for a hotel in Cannobio, you can get to know the town through its history, churches and trails along the Torrente Cannobino. Medieval traces stand alongside buildings from later centuries, while hiking trails lead to a range of destinations. The following stops offer concrete points of reference to help you choose the focus of your trip.

Old Town and Architectural History

The historic center is characterized by cobbled streets and numerous palaces dating from the 17th to the 19th century. To take in the different periods, it is worth comparing them with the older roots of the local churches. San Vittore has medieval origins and was rebuilt starting in 1730. The church contains a 16th-century wooden crucifix in the Chapel of the Annunciation, as well as two notable triptychs.

The Santuario della SS. Pietà stands near the lakeside promenade. Its construction lasted from 1575 to 1614. It was preceded by the miracles that took place in Tommaso Zaccheo’s house in 1522, following which the sanctuary was built. The long construction period and the time between the events and the building make the sanctuary’s history a different chapter in the town’s history from San Vittore’s medieval roots.

Carmine Superiore and San Gottardo

Carmine Superiore is a well-preserved medieval village. It can only be reached on foot from the district of Carmine Inferiore below, so bear this access route in mind when planning your visit. The 14th-century Church of San Gottardo stands in Carmine Superiore. It contains several frescoes, most of which are attributed to the Maestro di Carzoneso. The village and church thus offer two distinct points of interest: the surviving medieval settlement and its frescoes.

Orrido di Sant’Anna: Gorge and Bridges

Two bridges from different centuries cross the gorge of the Orrido di Sant’Anna: a footbridge dating from the 12th century and a road bridge from the 19th century. Here, over thousands of years, the waters of the Torrente Cannobino have hollowed out the valley’s rock walls. The two bridges offer a contrast in construction periods and uses, while the river has shaped the landscape.

You can reach the Orrido di Sant’Anna via a cycle path and steps. The terrain is uneven and consists of earth; access for people with disabilities is limited. Check before your visit whether access is currently possible.

Hiking and Cycling Trails along the Cannobino

Sentiero 2 is an easy trail suitable for families. It follows the Torrente Cannobino along the cycle path, climbing to the gorges of the Orrido di Sant’Anna. Sentiero 5 follows a different route: from Cannobio, it takes you along Via delle Genti to Carmine Superiore and then to Cannero and its castles. The two hiking trails therefore lead to different destinations: Sentiero 2 heads to the river and gorge, while Sentiero 5 passes through the places along its route.

The cycle path follows its own route. It starts at Lido di Cannobio and initially runs along both sides of the river. The sections rejoin at Ponte Ballerino; from there, the path continues through the woods alongside the river. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between different options: a hike to a specific destination, a route passing through several places, or the cycle path along the Cannobino.

Tradition and Pan Dolce

The procession carrying the relics of San Vittore to the Santuario della SS. Pietà is part of the commemorations on January 7; thousands of lights illuminate the procession. The commemorative tradition also includes a set, simple menu served in all the town’s restaurants: first Minestra di pasta e fagioli, followed by Luganighe with boiled potatoes and savoy cabbage. The procession and menu link the date with religious tradition and local food culture.

Pan Dolce is also part of the local food tradition: it is made in the municipality of Cannobio in the Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. If you are planning to visit a producer, check beforehand whether production is still taking place.

Discover more destinations: Verbania, Antrogna, Malesco, Cannero Riviera, Formazza, Craveggia, Cicogna, Macugnaga.

Go to the main travel overview: Verbano-Cusio-Ossola.