Lago Sfille

Lago Sfille (also written Lago di Sfille or Lago di Sfii) is a mountain lake in the Val di Campo, in the municipality of Campo (Vallemaggia), canton Ticino, Switzerland. It sits at roughly 1,909 to 1,910 metres above sea level and belongs to the group of alpine lakes that draw hikers into the hills above Locarno.

Where is Lago Sfille?

The lake lies high above Cimalmotto, the last village of the Val di Campo, a side valley of the Vallemaggia. Its coordinates are about 46.265 N, 8.496 E. It should not be confused with Lago di Robiei, which is in the neighbouring Val Bavona and is a separate hiking destination.

How do you get to Lago Sfille?

The trail begins in Cimalmotto at about 1,405 m. The canton of Ticino's trail sheet lists around 624 m of ascent and roughly 2 hours 45 minutes one way. The path climbs through Piano delle Vacche (1,833 m) and past Alpe di Sfille, which makes a worthwhile short detour. There is no hut or refreshment stop on the way, so carry your own water and food.

A longer option is the circuit from Campo via Lago di Sfii and Lago del Pèzz. Ascona-Locarno Tourism describes it as about 18 km and over 8 hours, with a high point of 2,127 m and a difficult rating. Technically it is a T2 mountain trail, but it demands real stamina.

What will you see at the lake?

The water is an unusually deep blue, framed by alpine pasture and rock. Larches grow nearby and turn gold in autumn. From Cimalmotto you can also reach other small lakes, including Pozzöi, Lago Gelato and Lago del Pèzz, so Sfille fits easily into a multi-day walking plan in the Vallemaggia. The lake also lies on the Via Alta Vallemaggia stage from Cimalmotto towards Capanna Ribia.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn is the most popular season, when the larches are yellow. The route is also walkable in summer, but with this much climbing it pays to start in the morning. At this altitude snow can linger into spring, so check trail conditions before you set out.

How should you prepare?

• Start early: the descent takes a similar time to the climb.
• Pack water, food and a warm layer, since there is nowhere to buy anything on the route.
• Wear proper hiking boots.
• The drive to Cimalmotto goes through Campo and Cevio on a road with many tight bends.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the walk to Lago Sfille? About 2 hours 45 minutes one way from Cimalmotto, with roughly 624 m of ascent.

What is the altitude of the lake? Sources give 1,909 to 1,910 m above sea level.

Is there a mountain hut on the way? No. There are no refreshment stops between Cimalmotto and the lake, so bring supplies.

Is Lago Sfille the same as Lago di Robiei? No. Robiei is in the Val Bavona and Sfille is in the Val di Campo. They are two separate destinations in the Vallemaggia region.