The “pinus cembra” or Swiss pine with its characteristic needles in bundles of five is one of the trees most typical of the region of Lucomagno. The Selvasecca pine forest is in fact one of the biggest in southern Switzerland, with trees that are more than three centuries old. The Swiss pine is an evergreen tree that grows spontaneously.
The Blenio Valley is so-called simply because the cold is almost unheard of! Of course, in winter you can ski on slopes which are ideal for a day’s skiing with the family or, for some meditation on skis, follow the snow-covered trails through the woods and alongside mountain streams. The rich history of this corner of Ticino is also kept very much alive through traditions such as the processions which recall the passing of Napoleonic militia, or in the austere exhibition rooms of the small local history museums. Here and there you will come across the ruins of an old castle or an old factory, former industrial glory of the Valley, famous for its chocolate and now home to regional products which include medicinal herbs, spa waters, cheeses and wine. A further attraction of this beautiful valley is the vast choice of attractive accommodation available in refurbished agricultural buildings, or “rustici”, where you can spend peaceful holidays and enjoy the genuine and intimate flavour of valley life.
