Poncione in Festa – Sunrise at the Summit

A Sunrise Worth Waking Up For

When the sky above Valceresio is still dark, a small army of hikers, families, and mountain lovers sets off. This is the event Poncione in Festa – Alba in vetta, the hiking festival that every spring leads to the summit of Monte Poncione, above Cuasso al Monte, in the Province of Varese. Departure is set for the first light, around 5:30 AM, to reach the summit in time for sunrise.

The Spectacle from the Summit

From the approximately 1,000 meters of Poncione, the view encompasses a panorama that repays every effort: the Alps on the horizon, the Varese and Ticino Prealps, and the pre-Alpine lakes that light up with the first rays. At the summit, next to the historic cross, the organizers offer a panoramic breakfast: a simple and evocative moment, shared among those who braved the climb in the dark.

Polenta at Alpe Tedesco

After sunrise, the descent is towards Alpe Tedesco, where at midday (around 12:30 PM) lunch is served with polenta, the star dish of the Lombard mountains. This is the convivial moment that concludes the day, celebrating mountain flavors and companionship.

Three Local Realities, One Festival

Poncione in Festa is born from the collaboration between the Pro Loco of Cuasso al Monte, the Pro Loco of Valganna, and the Gruppo Alpini. It's not just a hike: the proceeds from the day are donated to charity, combining sport and love for the mountains with a charitable purpose. An example of how associations in the small municipalities of the Varese area can build community.