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The Hydroelectric Exploitation of the Robiei Power Plant
A Full Day of History, Innovation, and Nature
Inspired by the remarkable exhibition “Metamorphosis of a Valley,” this immersive tour follows the fascinating journey of the waters of the Maggia as they are transformed into energy. A voyage through enchanting landscapes, where nature and engineering come together in perfect harmony.
This exclusive full-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore places usually closed to the public, gain insight into the crucial role of sustainable hydroelectric production, and immerse yourself in breathtaking alpine landscapes. Organized in collaboration with Ticino Tours, this itinerary will guide you through the history, technology, and social impact of hydroelectric energy.
The journey begins at the Locarno (Muralto) SBB train station, where a private bus will take you to the Valmaggia Museum to visit the temporary exhibition “Metamorphosis of a Valley – The Hydroelectric Exploitation of the Maggia.” Through historical documents, photographs, and personal accounts, you’ll discover the profound transformations the valley experienced between 1950 and 1966, reflecting on the impact of the hydroelectric plants on the local community and landscape.
After the museum visit, the tour continues to San Carlo, where an unmissable experience awaits: a panoramic cable car ride to Robiei—an awe-inspiring journey through alpine peaks and glacial lakes.
Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy a traditional lunch at Albergo Robiei, set in a stunning natural setting of rare beauty.
In the afternoon, guided by an expert, you’ll enter the Robiei Hydroelectric Power Plant, a strategic facility that transforms the power of water into electricity. You’ll gain exclusive access to areas normally closed to the public and get a close look at the processes and technologies that make this extraordinary form of sustainable energy possible.
At the end of the visit, the journey concludes with a cable car descent to San Carlo and a return by private bus to Locarno.
Places are limited – book now and don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience!
FULL DAY
Numero limitato di LIMITED NR. OF PARTICIPANTS
GUIDED TOUR OF THE POWER PLANT AND THE MUSEUM
UNIQUE CHANGE TO ACCESS A POWER PLANT
LUNCH ON TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN
TRIP ON A FUNICULAR WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS
TRANSFER BY BUS FROM AND TO LOCARNO
SECRETS OF SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
Itinerary
08:30 | Pick-Up Locarno (Muralto) train station FFS
You will meet your guide at the P+R lot of the Locarno (Muralto) SBB train station. She/he will be waiting near the parking ticket machine, next to the entrance of the Centovallina station.
09:10 | Visit to the exhibition "Metamorphosis of a Valley – The Hydroelectric Exploitation of the Maggia river"
10:40 | Private bus transfer through the Bavona Valley towards San Carlo
11:40 | Arrival in San Carlo and boarding the cable car to Robiei
The San Carlo-Robiei cable car, built in the 1960s, is an engineering masterpiece that made possible the construction of the hydroelectric plants operated by Officine Idroelettriche della Maggia SA, including the Robiei power plant and dam, as well as the Zött and Cavagnoli dams.
Considered one of the most spectacular double-cable cable cars in Europe, it stretches over 4 km, supported by seven massive towers, offering an exciting 15-minute journey. Inside its spacious cabin, which can hold up to 115 people, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the alpine peaks and experience an extraordinary feat that blends technology and nature.
12:30 | Lunch at the Hotel Robiei
14:00 | Visit to the Robiei Hydroelectric Power Plant
You will have the exclusive opportunity to get an up-close look at the operation of the Robiei Power Plant, a high-altitude facility that harnesses a 320-meter water drop to generate electricity. Fed by the Naret and Cavagnoli reservoirs, this plant uses an innovative pump-turbine system capable not only of producing energy but also of pumping water back uphill, optimizing natural resources.
Equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), you will have the unique chance to explore the inside of the facility, accessing areas usually closed to the public.
16:00 | Cable car to San Carlo and return to Locarno
General Information
Included
- Guide
- Entrance to the museum and the power plant in Robiei
- Transfer by bus and cable car
- Lunch
Not included
- Insurances
- Anything not stated elsewhere
Restrictions
- Access to the power plants is not recommended for individuals with pacemakers and for people with limited mobility.
- Unfortunately, these tours are not accessible to wheelchair users.
- Children aged 10 and above can participate only if accompanied by an adult.
Rules to access the power plant
- Smoking is prohibited inside the buildings.
- Touching equipment or machinery is strictly prohibited.
- Filming or photographing the facilities or staff is prohibited without the explicit consent of the guide. Terms and conditions
Terms and conditions
- The tour requires a minimum of 10 participants to take place.
- The organizer’s decision to confirm or cancel a tour must be made at least 7 days before the tour date.
- Participants can cancel their registration free of charge up to 10 days before the tour.
Book now
Dates:
5 July 2025
2 August 2025
6 September 2025
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