HISTORIC MOUNTAIN ROADS: Linea Cadorna: Piancavallo - Morissolo

The Cadorna Line is the defence system that was built near the Swiss border during World War I at the behest of General Luigi Cadorna, the then Chief of Staff of the Italian Army, who feared a German-Austrian invasion through neutral Switzerland.
The immense defence structure, built between the sping of 1916 and the spring of 1918, stretched from Ossola to Verbano and into Lombardy, becoming a dense network of military roads and mule tracks, trenches, artillery positions, lookout posts, camp hospitals and logistical facilities, barracks and outposts.
The work was carried out by local bricklayers and stonemasons and women also played a fundamental role in the construction of the defence line, particularly in transporting material and supplies to the work sites.
The Cadorna Line was never used for war purposes and today this military road is a historical heritage site that allows the community to learn about a historical moment of the 20th century.
It is also a natural heritage of trails for trekking and mountain-biking enthusiasts, offering routes that can be travelled almost all year round (be careful in the event of recent snowfall).

HIGHLIGHTS AND TOUR DETAILS
The section of the Cadorna Line between Piancavallo and Morissolo begins in Piancavallo (1247 m asl) in Alto Verbano, following the road to Colle. After passing the Auxological Hospital, you take the dirt road to the right, following the signs for the Monte Morissolo tunnels. After passing a barrier, the flat route begins on the wide military road that crosses a picturesque beech wood. As you exit the wood, you are struck by the breathtaking view of Upper Lake Maggiore. In just under half an hour on foot you reach the tunnels carved into the live rock and the cave posts of Monte Morissolo.

Trail suitable for people using motorised wheelchairs suitable for uneven terrain or manual but equipped wheelchairs. The use of wheelchair attachment with an accompanying person is recommended.

POINT OF INTERESTS
Scenic view of Upper Lake Maggiore.
Tunnels and cave posts.
Other trekking routes depart from here to Cima di Morissolo and Monte Morissolino.
A few kilometres away, it is possible to reach the Lake Maggiore Zipline, the 1850 m long steel cable which allows you to try the experience of an adrenaline-packed flight of 1 and a half minutes at over 120 km/hr (www.lagomaggiorezipline.it – possibility to rent e-bikes at Alpe Segletta - Aurano).
Fun is assured at Wonderwood Adventure Park and a breathtaking view from the Big Bench of the Lake at Monte Carza (Trarego Viggiona) www.wonderwood.it .