Melano – Cascata del Botto – Rovio

You can get to the Cascata del Botto from either Rovio (in 20 minutes) or from Melano (in 40 minutes). Upon arriving in Melano, you can park (charges apply) next to the municipal playground. As well as a picnic area covered by a sun awning, you will also find the first trail information board here. There are no water fountains along the route so make sure you take a bottle of water with you.

Follow the surfaced road that climbs up the side of the mountain. When you reach the end, follow the signs to the waterfall. The route is clear to see and well signposted.

Follow the dirt track that soon turns into a footpath for around ten minutes, making your way into the wood. The first part of the walk is easy. The path winds its way past tall chestnut trees and large boulders covered in a characteristic layer of moss and lichen. After passing through a clearing, the path grows narrower and more exposed. Be aware that you will need appropriate footwear!

The Sovaglia stream, with its beautiful 68-metre-high waterfall, can be reached by continuing along the path for about 30 minutes. A small bridge crosses it and it is right across it that you can admire the Botto waterfall (warning: it is forbidden to swim).

From here the village of Rovio is just a few minutes away, perched on the slopes of towering peaks with a beautiful view over Lake Lugano.
The Romanesque church of San Vigilio is clearly visible on a small hill to the left of the more imposing church of Santi Vitale ed Agata. You can get there in just a few minutes along the surfaced road.

The return can be made along the asphalted road that connects Rovio to Melano, about 1 hour walk, otherwise returning from the path used on the way up.

Copyright photos: Milo Zanecchia