- 3:45 h
- 32.60 km
- 918 m
- 1,209 m
- 1,177 m
- 2,243 m
- 1,066 m
- Start: Andermatt
- Destination: Airolo
The spectacular crossing of the main Alpine watershed, from Andermatt to Biasca. The Gottardo Bike route includes the famous San Gotthard Pass, the solitary Piora plateau, and the sunny Valle di Blenio.
The Gottardo Bike route combines spectacular high-altitude landscapes with a fine lesson in Swiss history. The San Gotthard Pass has been one of the main north-south transit axes for centuries. The underground is a labyrinth of bunkers, a testimony to its military role during the Second World War; various sections of the route are old army access roads.
The contrast with Val Piora further south could not be greater: here nature reigns. The charming plateau with its two alpine lakes lies in a rugged high mountain environment. Lake Cadagno also boasts a unique phenomenon in Europe – the lack of mixing between surface and deep waters – and is known to scientists worldwide.
The descent into the Valle di Blenio takes place almost entirely on the old Lucomagno road. In the Middle Ages, until the rise of the Gotthard, the Lucomagno Pass was the main north-south connection. Little frequented, it is one of the most beautiful alpine passes in Switzerland. The section to Olivone passes through large larch forests, very green plateaus, dense spruce woods and is considered one of the most beautiful in upper Ticino.
Good to know
Pavements
Best to visit
Directions
The Gottardo-Bike route combines impressive, high-Alpine landscapes with a detailed lesson in Swiss history. The Gotthardpass has for centuries been one of the most important north-south links and also achieved military significance in World War II. The area is laced with subterranean bunkers, planned to offer refuge in an emergency. Extensive stretches of the route were originally military access roads.
The contrast to the Piora plain further south could not be greater. Here the focus is on nature. The peaceful plain with its two mountain lakes nestles in a rugged high-Alpine landscape. The Lago di Cadagno is actually world-famous among scientists, because there is no seasonal mixing of surface water, unique in Europe.
The descent into Val Blenio mainly follows the old route of the Lukmanier road. In medieval times the Passo del Lucomagno was the most important north-south link until the development of the Gotthard region. Largely unknown, it is one of the most scenic Alpine passes in Switzerland. The route to Olivone leads through open larch groves, over lush green plains, through dense pine forests and counts as one of the most beautiful tours in north Ticino.
Tour information
Cultural Interesting
Stop at an Inn
Directions & Parking facilities
Author
Bellinzonese e Alto Ticino Turismo
Organization
Bellinzona e Valli Turismo
Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author
Follow the mountain bike logo shown on the red signs: Gottardo Bike no. 65
Safety guidelines
- Wear protection
- Assess your abilities correctly
- Give priority to hikers
- Stay on the route
- Close the gates
Careful planning of routes is the key to enjoying a route. Check the weather and route conditions in advance at local information centres. Depending on the season and weather conditions the route may be closed or interrupted.
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