Autumn approaches and brings with it one of the most anticipated events by lovers of panoramic travel, which has now become a classic: from 17 September online sales are open for the Foliage 2025 train, the convoy that crosses the historic Vigezzina-Centovalli railway. A path that Lonely Planet has included among the ten most spectacular railway lines on the planet.
The colleague Domodossola railway in Locarno crossing Val Vigezzo, known as the “Valley of the painters”. A name that already tells the beauty of these places, where woods and mountains turn into a palette of colors during the autumn season. The complete journey takes about two hours and gives panoramas that remain well imprinted in memory.
Dates and programming of the races
The special runs dedicated to Foliage will start on 11 October and continue until November 16, 2025. The railway line, active since 1923, remains operational throughout the year, but during this period it organizes trips designed specifically for those who want to admire the spectacle of nature that changes its role. The convoys cross bridges suspended in the void, coast waterfalls and lap the medieval villages perched on the slopes of the mountains.
Costs and booking methods
Tickets can be purchased on the Vigezzina Centovalli railway website. The price includes the round trip, departing from Domodossola or Locarno depending on the preferences. During the journey you can make an intermediate stop to visit one of the villages along the way, but you have to choose whether to stop on the outward or return.
Prices vary according to the chosen day and the travel class. On weekdays an adult pays 36 euros in second class and 46 in the first. During the weekends, the rates rise to 41 and 51 euros respectively. Children up to six years of age travel for free if they do not take a seat. The 6 to 16 -year band benefits from reduced rates: 16 euros in second class and 23 in the first on weekdays, 20.50 and 25.50 euros on weekends.
The stages of the route
The journey develops for 52 kilometers through landscapes that constantly change. The train stops in different locations, including Santa Maria Maggiore, Re, Intagna and Verdasio. Each village has its own peculiarities and deserves an in -depth visit. For example, Santa Maria Maggiore has a splendid perfectly preserved historic center, the municipality of King welcomes visitors with the famous sanctuary of the Madonna del Blood. And again, the municipality of Intagna has as a dowry for the highest bell tower in Ticino – 65 meters high – while Verdasio acts as a door to the cable car for rasa.
The departures hours are available on the official website. The first convoy starts at 8:26 in the morning, with races that follow one another every hour. In the afternoon the frequency decreases to better distribute the turnout of passengers throughout the day.
Have a good trip!
