Capanna Gorda
The place
Alpine refuge set at 1800 m on a wide alpine pasture above the Montagne di Gorda, in the Valle di Blenio (Ticino, Switzerland). The first hut, built of wood, dates from 1965 and was replaced in 2000 by the current brick-and-timber building on two levels, equipped with a full kitchen, dining room, bathroom and shower. Owned by the Società Alpinistica SANDA (Nido d'Aquila — "Eagle's Nest"). Since 2009, the refuge has also been equipped with a wind turbine. Internationally known among astronomy researchers for its excellent stargazing conditions. Accessible by car via a forest road (from Camperio) — in winter, accessible on foot via a groomed trail or via the "Gorda-Express", a snowmobile transport service between Camperio and the Capanna Gorda. Exceptional Ticino alpine setting: high-altitude meadows, panorama of the Adula (3402 m, highest point in Ticino) and the Blenio valley. Emblematic wildlife: chamois, ibex (reintroduced), golden eagle, bearded vulture. Excursions: Passo Bareta, Pian di Nara-Leontica, Bassa Nara-Leventina, Punta di Larescia (Pilon).
Getting there
From Camperio by car via a forest road. Winter: on foot or via the "Gorda-Express" (snowmobile).
The setting
Valle di Blenio (Ticino), panorama of the Adula (3402 m), astronomical observation site.
