Ruffrè - Mendola
From the legendary Burrone della Diavola to the traditional Alpine farmhouses with panoramic views
Ruffrè is a traditional village surrounded by thick pine woods. With its Medieval origins, Ruffrè includes a number of scattered dwellings known as masi, picturesque Alpine farmhouses, built in areas with great panoramic views. The culture, customs, places and family names of the area clearly feature German influences. Traditional celebrations include the Imperial Period Costume Parade, followed by the Grand Imperial Ball and Dinner hosted in the Imperial Hall which re-enact a visit to Ruffrè paid by the Emperor Franz Joseph and his court.
The Burrone della Diavola is found near the town. According to a rather curious legend, the "screams" and "faint lights" of the witches who used to come in the gorge and plot with the devil, can still be heard and seen there. The Rio Diavola and Rio Freddo streams meet and join in the valley, taking on the name of Linor before flowing into Rio S. Romedio.
Ruffrè lies in the middle of a skiing area, which includes the Monte Nock-Ruffrè ski lift (1218-1342 meters) near the town and the Golf Course-Malga di Mezzavia ski lift (1344-1573 metres) to the Mendola Pass, which is approximately two kilometres North of Ruffrè.