Denti della Vecchia

Denti della Vecchia ("the Old Woman's Teeth") is a group of jagged rock towers in the Lugano Prealps, north of Lake Lugano. The massif sits on the border between Switzerland and Italy, and from Lugano it reads as a serrated line along the ridge. It is among the best-known hiking goals in Ticino.

What are the Denti della Vecchia?

The name refers to several rocky summits that resemble a row of teeth. The highest is called Sasso Grande. Sources put its height at roughly 1,500 m above sea level, with differences of a few dozen metres depending on the publication. The group lies at about 46.053° N, 9.023° E.

Geologically it belongs to the Lugano Prealps, a gentler foothill range of the Alps, yet the rock spires give it a far more dramatic character than the forested ridges around it. The Swiss federal inventory of landscapes protects the area as a site of particular value.

What does the hike look like?

A popular route starts in the village of Cimadera, at around 1,100 m. The trail passes the Capanna Pairolo hut and crosses the Passo Streccione (about 1,400 m), where the towers come into view. Route listings describe a loop of about 14 km with roughly 870 m of ascent, rated hard and calling for good fitness and sure footing. Time estimates for the main walk around the towers are about three hours.

Can you climb Sasso Grande?

Yes, but it is no longer an ordinary hike. Reaching the top of the highest tower involves a short scramble at around UIAA grade II, on exposed ground. Trip reports recommend carrying a rope. Walkers without rock experience can happily stop at the pass and the paths below for the views.

When to go

Clear, stable days are best, when Lake Lugano and the surrounding peaks stand out from the ridge. Wear sturdy shoes on the rocky sections and avoid the scramble after rain, when the stone is slick. Plan to be back before dark, and carry your own water and food rather than counting on the hut.

Frequently asked questions

Where are the Denti della Vecchia? North of Lake Lugano, on the Swiss-Italian border, in the Lugano Prealps.

Which summit is the highest? Sasso Grande, at about 1,500 m above sea level.

Where is the easiest place to start? Cimadera is a popular trailhead, with the path running via Capanna Pairolo and Passo Streccione.

Do I need climbing gear? For the summit of Sasso Grande, a rope is recommended because the section is exposed. The trail to the pass does not require it.

Is the route difficult? The loop is rated demanding because of its length and ascent, but a fit, well-prepared hiker can complete it in a day.

The Denti della Vecchia suit anyone near Lugano looking for a mountain outing with a striking rock objective and wide views over Ticino and northern Italy.