The heart of the Alps beats at the Gotthard Pass. Countless rivers and springs have their source on this plateau, through which one of the most important trade routes in Europe has been running for centuries. The hike starts in the Urseren valley and leads through the wildly romantic Schöllenen gorge. The path leads steeply up to the Gotthard pass, where mountain flowers still bloom even in summer. Afterwards, the Strada Alta, one of the most famous high-level trails in Switzerland, awaits you. The landscape changes and Mediterranean flair slowly takes the place of the cool mountain air.
Online booking: EUROTREK
The itinerary in Ticino:
Day 1: Arrival in Amsteg | Amsteg - Göschenen
Baggage drop-off in Amsteg. A stage for railway freaks: The path runs partly next to the tracks of the now "old" Gotthard railway line (the long-distance trains roar through the world's longest railway tunnel under the Gotthard mountains).
Details: distance approx. 16 km, climb 955 m, descent 390 m, duration: 5 h
Day 2: Göschenen - Andermatt – Gotthard Pass
The villages of Göschenen and Andermatt play an important role in the history of Gotthard traffic. In between, the legendary Schöllenen gorge. The route follows the paving of the old mule track to the pass of the passes. Varied, colourful alpine flora. The striking ventilation system of the Gotthard car tunnel resembles a music pavilion. Interesting museum at the top of the pass about the Postillon times.
Details: distance approx. 12 km, climb 715 m, descent 90 m, duration: 3.5 h
Day 3: Gotthard Pass - Airolo
The path winds along the famous Tremola road far down to Airolo. The artfully built hairpin turns are immortalized in countless films. Along the way spectacular views of the Leventina with the long stretched up and down ramps of the motorway.
Details: distance approx. 8 km, climb 60 m, descent 940 m, duration: 2.5 h
Day 4: Airolo – Faido
Deep down in the valley the traffic on the motorway roars, while up on the Strada Alta there is peace and quiet. Magnificent views of the Leventina and Val Bedretto mountain ranges. Bright chapels shine in villages and meadows. From Osco by bus to the hotel in Faido.
Details: distance 18 km, climb 710 m, descent 755 m, duration: 5 h
Day 5: Faido - Anzonico
The central part of the Strada Alta is considered the most pleasant and charming: hardly any difference in altitude, mostly on natural surfaces, and the peaks of the Leventina on the right hand side as constant companions. Chapels and churches provide for contemplation and enjoyment of art.
Details: distance approx. 12 km, climb 525 m, descent 700 m, duration: 4 h
Day 6: Anzonico – Biasca | Departure
The most romantic but steepest section of the Strada Alta. The old mule track leads over enormous rocky outcrops and through lonely chestnut woods to the unique open-air stairs above Pollegio. From Poleggio to Biasca recommended by public bus. After arrival in Biasca individual departure.
Details: distance approx. 13 km, climb 495 m, descent 770 m, duration: 4 h
Services:
- 5 overnights stays with breakfast
- Daily luggage transport
- Ticino Ticket
- Guide book
- Detailed tour documentation
- GPS-data available
- 7-day Helpline
Not included:
- Bus trip to Biasca (ca. CHF 5.- pp)