If you are passionate about history, but not the common one, Macugnaga is the destination for you. You will not find castles, forts or glittering palace from the 1800s, but a wonderful village on the slopes of the Himalayan face of Monte Rosa. Where civilization and nature come together in a unique fairy-tale landscape: this is Macugnaga.
Where is Macugnaga?
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Piedmont, Macugnaga is the cradle of the Walser people. Its characteristic views will surprise you in every season.
It is located in the Anzasca valley, about an hour from Stresa and Lago Maggiore. The peculiarity of this place is that it isn’t actually a real town; it is made up of a bunch of picturesque villages that run through the valley up to the slopes of Monte Rosa: Stabioli, Pestarena, Fornarelli, Isella, Motta, Quarazza, Borca, Staffa and Pecetto.
Macugnaga’s history
The main historical attraction of Macugnaga is Chiesa Vecchia, an old Romanesque church from the 1300s, located in the old part of the town. Nearby you can also find the centuries-old lime tree.
The first Walser settlements in Piedmont date back to the second half of the 13th century, when the settlers arrived from the Swiss valley of Saas.
After settling in the northern art of the Anzasca valley and in other Ossola areas, such as Formazza, Salecchio, Agaro, Ausone, Ornavasso and Migiandone, the Walser crossed the Monte Moro pass to find an area under the glacier that was ideal for developing farms and crops. Thus Macugnaga was born, originally called Z’Makanà.
Macugnaga has evolved over time while maintaining the traditional Walser architecture: the perennial glacier of Monte Rosa and the clear blue sky are the backdrop to the wooden houses and little local shops. Today you can visit the Walser Museum to learn more.
Our must do insider tips
In Macugnaga, you absolutely cannot miss the best restaurant in the area: the Z’Makanà Stubu, located a few steps from the central square. This small restaurant will warm your heart thanks to the intimate and elegant atmosphere typical of the Walser tradition.
Let Cristina and chef Giorgio guide you through the revisited traditional dishes accompanied by a good glass of wine. You will always find different dishes based on the season and fresh local products, but whatever the season is, you will always find the restaurant’s historic dishes, such as “Jazzini” or “Z’Makanà Stube Teller”.
If you are a lover of typical mountain food, you have to consider a trip to the Burki. This farmhouse is set in an alpine pasture which can be reached by everyone on an hour-long hike from the main square. Eventually it is also possible to go up with the chairlift in about 15 minutes. There you can taste typical dishes such as polenta with game meat and self-product cheeses with wild herbs. Furthermore, during grazing periods, you will have the opportunity to find cows around the farm.
This hidden gem in the Alps will excite you in any season and whatever your interests: you can ski, hike, find good food and enjoy a breath taking view. So what are you waiting for? Macugnaga awaits you!
A perfect day trip
We suggest a private day trip from Lake Maggiore including the following:
- Depart Stresa with private driver and guide to embark on this unique journey
- Discover the Walser Museum on a guided visit
- Enjoy a typical lunch with local wine pairing at Z’Makana Stubu Restaurant
- Free time to take the chairlift to Rifugio Belvedere or the cable car to Mount Moro to admire the Mount Rosa and its glacier.
- Return to Stresa with your private driver and unwind at your own leisure in the evening
