Lago Maggiore zipwire is amongst the longest in Europe. Not only does it give you an adrenaline rush in total safety, but you also have the chance to visit a very scenic, little-known area above Verbania and Lago Maggiore.

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If you’re just expecting a cable slung between two pylons and little else, you're in for a pleasant surprise. This newly opened, highly efficient outfit operates out of a very sleek wood and glass building which blends into its surroundings perfectly.

With a spacious sun lawn, bar and restaurant you could happily while away several hours here watching zipliners as they come into land.

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Once you've paid your ticket (35 Euros for a single, 30 Euros if you share), you're driven by minibus to the departure point on the far side of the valley. Here too, great care has obviously been taken with all the details.

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The small stone and wood building has been cleverly constructed to resemble a farm hut. Fortunately, no skill is required: the attendant straps you into a harness suspended and gravity does the rest. You just have to choose between two positions: face down, so that you can soar like a bird of prey or a slightly ungainly sitting position. 

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Admiring the scenery is the last thing on your mind as you hurtle downhill at speeds of over 100kph; calm your nerves though and you’ll have a minute and a half to survey some truly stunning views over forests and mountains, 300 metres below.

In the unlikely event that the flight leaves you totally unfazed, you’re probably ready to graduate to the world's second highest bungee jump - from the Contra dam, 60 kilometres away, in Switzerland.

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Lago Maggiore zip-wire has been so successful that during peak summer season you really need to book ahead in order to be sure of getting a ride.

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Leave time afterwards to explore this beautiful, little visited area in the mountains above Verbania and Lago Maggiore. Just five minutes away by car, uphill from the main building, is the lake’s finest viewpoint whilst if you drive a little further, beyond a strange mountain side hospital, you'll arrive at the starting point for a marvellous hike to Monte Zeda, the area's highest mountain.

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Another fascinating option is Monte Morisolo where you can explore stunning first world war tunnels cut into the mountain.