The Laveggio Springs: A Treasure Chest of Biodiversity

The Laveggio stream is a symbol of the Mendrisiotto region waiting to be discovered: the upper reaches of the river, between Stabio and Genestrerio, pass through precious natural areas home to rare plant and animal species. Let's get to know it together! The Laveggio stream flows through the Mendrisiotto region, shaping its valley floor. Along its course, you can encounter every facet of Switzerland's southernmost district: from pristine corners to severely degraded industrial zones, all the way to its mouth in the municipality of Riva San Vitale, where its waters meet those of Lake Ceresio. But it is in the upper reaches of its course that the Laveggio shows itself at its best, flowing through and shaping areas of outstanding natural and landscape value. This is home to very rare and threatened species such as the Lataste's Frog (Rana latastei), the Po Valley Lamprey (Lampetra zanandreai), the European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis), and the Dog's Tooth Turtle (Erythronium dens-canis).

I organize guided tours to discover this waterway, its ecology, and the landscape it flows through. My excursions last two to three hours and focus on the river between Stabio and Genestrerio, with the possibility of also discovering the hills near Santa Margherita and their nationally important ponds. The usual meeting point is the Stabio train station. Since 2024, I have been an official guide at the newly established Laveggio Park. Topics? The waterway and its inhabitants, flora, amphibians, dragonflies. Who is it for? Groups, families, schools.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Group size: min. 3, max. 15
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Seasonality: spring, summer, fall
Available: Monday–Sunday
Languages: French – Italian
Price: upon agreement
Advance booking required
Meeting point: Between Stabio and Genestrerio (usual meeting point:
Stabio SBB station)