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Piz Olivone

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Piz Oliva, also known as Piz Olivone, is a prominent peak in the Adula Alps of the canton of Ticino, reaching an elevation of 2,703 meters. It stands above the Blenio Valley and the village of Olivone, which gives the mountain its name. Geographically, it belongs to the Lukmanier Pass region, a historically vital connection between Northern and Southern Europe. The mountain is distinguished by its steep flanks and characteristic shape that dominates the landscape of the upper Blenio Valley. For hikers, Piz Oliva provides challenging ascents that require sure-footedness and good physical fitness, rewarded with expansive views over the Ticinese highlands. The region is known for its diverse alpine flora and traditional alpine farming, which is still practiced on the lower slopes today. Despite its moderate height compared to the 4,000-meter giants, the summit provides an authentic alpine experience far from the main tourist crowds.

Location: Switzerland
Top sights: Museo del cioccolato · Museo Cà da Rivöi · Pizzo Rossetto
Nearby: Disentis (21 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-8	-8	-4	1	6	11	12	12	8	4	-2	-7
Rain mm	74	66	87	111	162	163	156	181	120	122	133	89

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to this viewpoint is often from Olivone in Ticino or via the Greina plateau from Graubünden. The path leads through a scenically attractive border region between the two cantons.

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Best season

The best time for hikes to Piz Olivone is usually from late June to September. During this period, the passes are mostly snow-free and the flora of the Greina region is in full bloom.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain is typical of the Adula Alps, with grassy slopes at lower elevations and rugged rocks at the summit. The paths are partly steep but generally provide good orientation for hikers.

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What to bring

Good hiking boots and protection against sudden rain showers are definitely recommended for the tour. Binoculars are worthwhile to enjoy the extensive views of the surrounding peaks.

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Parking

Public parking is available in Olivone, as well as at the starting points for Greina on the Graubünden side. In season, shuttle buses may operate to relieve traffic on the narrow mountain roads.

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Safety

There is usually little danger on the marked paths, but you should still watch out for weather changes. The exposed viewpoints require a head for heights and caution near rocky drops.

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Time needed

A hike from Olivone can take between 5 and 7 hours of walking time depending on the destination. For a complete traverse of the region, a full day should be planned by visitors.

Geography

Coordinates

46.52000, 8.93000

Facts

The elevation of Piz Oliva is 2,703 meters above sea level.
The mountain is located in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino.
It is named after the village of Olivone situated at its base.
The peak is part of the Adula Alps mountain range.
It is situated in close proximity to the Lukmanier Pass.
The area is known for its rugged limestone and crystalline rock formations.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Piz Medel10 km · NWExplore →

Piz della Drausa II11 km · WExplore →

Piz della Drausa South12 km · WExplore →

Piz Terri South15 km · NEExplore →

Piz della Tavola17 km · WExplore →

Piz Terri North17 km · NEExplore →

Disentis21 km · NExplore →

Vals22 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Piz Olivone (6)

Museo del cioccolato 🏛 museum

This museum near Piz Olivone is dedicated to the history of chocolate production.

Museo Cà da Rivöi 🏛 museum

Museo Cà da Rivöi is a museum in the Piz Oliva area.

🌐 museovallediblenio.ch

Pizzo Rossetto 📍 landmark

Pizzo Rossetto is a scenic mountain peak overlooking the Blenio Valley.

Punta di Larescia 📍 landmark

Punta di Larescia is an Alpine peak offering wide views over the Ticino region.

Sosto 📍 landmark

Sosto is a prominent pyramid-shaped mountain located above Olivone.

Fondazione La Fabbrica del Cioccolato 🏛 museum

This art gallery is located in a former chocolate factory near Olivone.

🌐 lafabbricadelcioccolato.ch

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Piz Olivone located?

It is located in the canton of Ticino above the village of Olivone.

How high is the summit?

Piz Olivone reaches a height of 2703 meters.

Is the ascent difficult?

It is a challenging mountain hike for experienced alpinists.

What panorama does the summit offer?

You look over the Blenio Valley and the Adula Alps.

Is there accommodation nearby?

There are hotels in Olivone, and huts serve as bases on the mountain.

Piz Olivone: where is it located?

Piz Olivone is located in Switzerland.

Piz Olivone: what is there to see?

Highlights include Museo del cioccolato, Museo Cà da Rivöi, Pizzo Rossetto.

Piz Olivone: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Piz Olivone: why is it worth visiting?

Piz Oliva, also known as Piz Olivone, is a prominent peak in the Adula Alps of the canton of Ticino, reaching an elevation of 2,703 meters.

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Piz Olivone

Best time to visit & climate