The route linking Laveno to Vararo is a walk deeply rooted in the traditions of the Laveno branch of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI). It is known by the curious name “Ammazzapanettone”, a humorous expression referring to the tradition of “working off” the rich Christmas panettone — a typical Italian holiday cake — through a post-holiday group hike.

A simple and accessible route for the whole family, perfect for a nice short trip with a panoramic views.

The route starts from Alpe San Michele, reachable by car from Brissago Valtravaglia or with about 40 minutes on foot starting from Ligurno, a district of Portovaltravaglia via the "Sentee di Sass" or the "Sentiero Gogna". Alpe San Michele is also known as the "town of nativity scenes" for the images of the Nativity that decorate the village up to the millenary church with frescos dedicated to the Archangel San Michele.

Passo Forcora, located in the municipality of Veddasca, is situated in the north of the province of Varese, 50 minutes from the city of Varese and 20 minutes from Luino.

The route starts from the pass itself, where you can leave the car in a large free parking lot. Pass by the small church on the pass and take the path following a wooden sign a comfortable carriage road to Monterecchio. From here the route goes up to the Veddasca Valley.