The surrounding of our hostel
The Maggia Valley covers with an area of 568 sqm one fifth of the Canton of Ticino. The valley is crisscrossed by a unique and breathtaking river, the Maggia river.
From Cevio the valley is devided into 5 side valleys: Val di Campo, Val di Bosco, Val Bavona, Val Lavizzara and Val di Peccia. The altitude difference between the lowest village (Avegno 299 m a.s.l.) and the highest village (Bosco Gurin 1507 m a.s.l.) is 1200 meters.
With 700 km of hiking trails, 48 mountain lakes and mountain peaks to 3000 m, the Maggia Valley is a paradise for hikers. Many climbing walls of all skill levels can easily be reached from Baracca Backpacker in about 15 minutes. Countless waterfalls and the crystal clear waters of the Maggia river invite to swimming, diving, snorkeling and relaxing.
On hot days you can enjoy Ticino home cooking and local wine in cool grottos and relax after an eventful day . In this beautiful valley you will experience unforgettable moments! Our small and likeable hostel is the perfect starting point for unique discoveries of all kinds. We look forward to receiving your booking!
The most famous painter of the Magia Valley Giovanni Antonio Vanoni was born in 1810 in Aurigeno. His work can be seen throughout the village and in the surrounding area. Various frescoes in churches, oratories and chapels can be reached easily on foot from the Baracca Backpacker. The most beautiful votive paintings of the artist can be found in the church of the Madonna delle Grazie (just before Maggia, about 15 minutes walk from the hostel) – Opening hours May – October: every Friday afternoon from 16:00 to 18:00 and every first Saturday of the month from 14:00 to 16:00. Giovanni Antonio Vanoni died in 1886 and was buried at the cemetery in Aurigeno where his grave is still to this day, next to the chapel he designed.
