Gottardo Bike

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.

The route continues along the western flank of the Blenio Valley, crosses the wide Nara basin and reaches the plain by way of the old village centre of Selvapiana and the ruins of Serravalle Castle.