Giro del ponte tibetano
Overview
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Distance 9 km
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Duration 3 h 35 min
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Ascent 700 m
Intro
There are unusual sights to see above the Magadino Plain, wineries and the elaborately restored village of Curzútt among them. The hiking trail leads to the Romanesque San Bernardo church with its valuable frescoes. The suspension bridge spanning a 100 m deep ravine is sure to offer an adrenaline rush.
Description
Between vineyards and chestnut groves, this hike offers magnificent views of the Magadino Plain with Lago Maggiore in the background. The hikers are passing small villages before they get to Ponte Tibetano, one of the longest suspension bridges in Switzerland. It is definitely thrilling: with a length of 270 m it connects the two sides of the previously impassable Sementina valley. It does feel a bit unsteady 130 m above the creek, but there is no need to be afraid: the suspension bridge consists of solid larch wood planks and is held by metal wires. A hand-rail provides stability. Those without fear of heights will stop in the middle and enjoy the spectacular view of the Magadino Plain, Bellinzona and the surrounding mountains.
The next section of the route, always in the direction of Curzútt, takes us to a forest clearing with the Romanesque San Bernardo church from the 11th/12th century. It used to be a fixture in the village life of nearby Curzútt. Now, it is somewhat less spectacular – at least at first glance. But the small church is well worth a visit. The interior is adorned by frescoes from the 14th and 15th century. If the church happens to be locked, the keys can be obtained at the guesthouse in Curzùtt.
The village is also the next stop on the hike. Curzútt is proof that people once used to prefer living at higher altitudes, for many reasons: for one, the shores of the Ticino were often under water. The climate in the plain increased the risk of malaria. Plus, Bellinzona was an embattled town back then and the valley was located in a strategic position for passing armies and soldiers. The elaborately restored village contains typical stone houses, vegetable gardens, terrace-like grain fields and vineyards. Dry stone walls and an old mule track were also renovated. However, Curzútt is not meant to be a museum. It also has a youth hostel and a restaurant. After touring the village, we return to Monte Carasso on foot through the vineyards or by cable car over them.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Start location |
Monte Carasso
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|---|---|
| Destination |
Monte Carasso
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| Direction |
Round trip
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| Ascent |
700 m
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| Descent |
700 m
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| Distance |
9 km
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| Duration |
3 h 35 min
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| Duration back |
3 h 35 min
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| Technical requirements |
Medium
|
| Physical requirements |
Medium
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| Theme |
Over a suspension bridge, With panoramic view
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| Signalization |
Signalisation in both directions
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Quick Facts
Route number
