Passo della Forcora

Passo della Forcora is home to the only small ski resort in the province of Varese. It is located at 1,179 metres, in the municipality of Maccagno con Pino e Veddasca, a short distance from the Swiss border and about a 20-minute drive from Luino. The landscape is its main strength: from the summit of Monte Cadrigna, the view extends to Lake Maggiore, Monte Rosa and the mountains of the Saint Gotthard region.

The ski area consists of a single slope measuring approximately 1 km, served by a skilift running from the pass at 1,179 metres to Monte Cadrigna at 1,304 metres. The run is classified as being of intermediate difficulty and has a limited vertical drop, but includes some sections with a fairly steep gradient. It is therefore more suitable for skiers who are already able to control their skis than for complete beginners.

The lift facilities are basic and consist of a traditional skilift, without the convenience and speed of modern chairlifts. Its small size, however, makes it possible to ski in a familiar, peaceful environment away from the crowds of the larger ski areas. The resort also offers lessons for adults and children, equipment rental, and an area dedicated to bobsleighs and sledges.

Passo della Forcora is mainly suited to families and local skiers who want to spend a few hours in the snow without undertaking long journeys. It cannot be considered a destination for a ski holiday or for those seeking a wide variety of slopes, but it retains the charm of small local resorts and represents an important opportunity for introducing children to winter sports.

Its modest altitude and the absence of an extensive snowmaking system make operations heavily dependent on natural snowfall. After several years of inactivity, the skilift resumed operation in January 2024 and reopened again, albeit only for a limited period, in February 2026. The resort generally opens at weekends and on public holidays, when snow depth allows the slope to be prepared and made safe. It is therefore essential to check conditions and whether the resort is actually open before setting off.

Forcora is also a starting point for snowshoeing and ski touring routes through the mountains of Valle Veddasca and along the border ridge between Italy and Switzerland. During the warmer months, the pass is popular with hikers, cyclists and mountain bikers: the short climb to Monte Cadrigna offers one of the most striking views of the upper Lake Maggiore area, while other routes lead towards Lago Delio and the surrounding mountains.

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