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Switzerland's north to south cycle route connects two of the most beautiful cities of Switzerland. From the French border city of Basel the route crosses the Jura mountains to the charming lakeside city of Lucerne. The next stage takes you through central Switzerland and into the alps. A highlight of the cycle is the massive 2155 vertical metre descent from the historic Gotthard pass with its series of switchbacks making for a quick descent. Passing by the castles of Bellinzona you reach the sparkling waters of Lake Lugano nestled between Lake Maggiore and Lake Como on the Italian border. Lugano is a fitting end to the trip where you can dip your toes in the cool lake and marvel at the dramatic scenery surrounding the city. There is so much to love about this expansive route showcasing Switzerland's finest treasures.
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22kg of CO2-e PP per day
(154kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Basel
The picturesque city of Basel, Switzerland's third most populated city, is the starting point for your tour. Check into your hotel and take the opportunity to explore both sides of the Rhine river, the Old Town concentrated in Grossbasel on the south bank and Kleinbasel on the north bank or visit one of the many museums.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Cycle across the Jura Mountains to Aarau (58km/36mi)
Cycling from the bustling centres of Basel, Liestal and the Ergolztal you enter the tranquility and charming countryside in the Baselbiet Jura. The route takes you through Aargau's Jurapark hills, followed by a racy descent down the southern Jura slopes to Aarau. Ascent/Descent: +770m/2526ft, -665m/-2181ft
Meals: B
Day 3
Cycle through the Suhrental river valley to Lucerne (57km/35mi)
From Aarau the way leads to the idyllic Suhrental river valley; with views of the Alps spotted south and the Jura chain to the north. Through rich orchards and fertile fields alongside Lake Sempach, the end of this stage takes you into the charming city of Lucerne with its impressive chapel bridge, Kapellbrücke. The covered wooden bridge is a central feature of the city together with the lake and heritage buildings lining the canal. Ascent/Descent: +630m/2066ft, -580m/-1902ft
Day 4
Cross Lake Lucerne and cycle to Amsteg (42km/26mi)
Lake Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s largest and most beautiful lakes. Its many arms link the Mittelland and Alps. When the fierce Föhn wind blows, the lake reveals its wilder side! Part of the route today will be by boat offering a different perspective of the impressive scenery. The cycle route continues through the Urnerland, a transit corridor surrounded by mountains, to Amsteg, a pretty town on the north south route. Ascent/Descent: +400m/1312ft, -280m/-918ft
Day 5
Cycle ascent through the alps to the Gotthard Pass (35km/22mi)
The trip continues through the canton of Uri where the wild Reuss river plunges down through the Schöllenenschlucht (gorge), subdued only by sheer mountain walls and the Teufelsbrücke (Devil’s Bridge). Whether by horse, train or more recently car, the route across the Gotthard southwards has been popular since the middle ages. It was and continues to be an important trade route and marks the change in language from German in the north to Italian in the south. While a series of tunnels take the bulk of the vehicle traffic, the old road to the pass is for local traffic and therefore perfect for cycling. The ascent today is formidable, however the distance is shorter to compensate making it a worthy challenge (made easier on an e-bike!). Tonight you stay in a historic hospiz. Ascent/Descent: +1575m/5167ft, -100m/-328ft
Day 6
Exhilarating descent from the Gotthard Pass to Bellinzona (77km/49mi)
Todays cycle is a highlight. Don't be put off by the longer km's with the vast majority of the route downhill. Starting from the historic pass, the descent takes you on a series of cobblestone switchbacks with incredible views to the south and west. As you descend south, the climate becomes noticeably milder. The route levels out at the base of the valley with an easy ride along the waters of the Ticino, passing chestnut trees and vineyards and scenes that are more Italian than Swiss. Bellinzona, called 'La Turrita' because of its many castles is a charming Italian style town oozing in atmosphere. Welcome to Ticino! Ascent/Descent: 0m/0ft, -1855m/-6085ft
Day 7
Cycle to Cadenazzo and onto Lake Lugano (37km/23mi)
Leaving behind Bellinzona you take a short cycle route to Cadenazzo and take the train up to Rivera Bironico. From Monte Ceneri a clear view of the Piano di Magadino vegetable fields and Lago Maggiore rewards you. Your first sight of Lago di Lugano's picture-postcard beauty will be sure to impress. From Agno you continue by train to the centre of the cultural city of Lugano. Ascent/Descent: +365m/1197ft, -550m/-1804ft
Day 8
Trip concludes Lugano, or optional cycle to Chiasso (40km/23mi), trip concludes
This morning arrangements conclude after breakfast in Lugano. Optional cycle to the southernmost tip of Switzerland, the Mendrisiotto. This ride takes you around Lake Lugano to the delightful town of Morcote, before crossing to the other side of the lake and continuing to Ticino's largest wine growing area. From Chiasso you can continue your onward travel by train to nearby Italy or back to central Switzerland. Ascent/Descent: +405m/1328ft, -440m/-1443ft
What's included
What's not included
During the trip stay in comfortable 3 star hotels specially suited to cycle touring, all rooms with ensuite facilities. For 1 night you will be staying in an old hospice which has been converted into a mountain hotel. Please note that a twin room is not always associated with having two beds. Quite often a twin bed has one or two mattresses on the same bed frame but with two separate duvets. Sometimes there might be two beds positioned together, but they cannot be separated because of constraints of the room.
During the trip you will be provided with a 24 speed bike. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a repair kit and lock. In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. Helmet rental is not included, you can purchase or bring your own well-fitted helmet. Helmets are mandatory on all bike tours.
An E-Bike is available on request. These bikes are designed to make cycling easier. The pedalling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 16 years and a minimum height requirement is 150-160cm / 4ft92"-5ft24"
Mostly along quiet roads. Challenging in the beginning in the hills of Jura and smooth during the ride through the Mittelland and past Lake Lucerne. Uphill from Amsteg towards Gotthardpass Pass and downhill over the cobblestones of Tremola road. You will encounter more traffic as you arrive and depart urban centres.
GRADE 4 - daily cycles are between 30 and 75km/19 or 47mi through undulating to mountainous terrain - daily ascents of between 300m-1315m (984-4340ft). With an e-bike the ascents are much easier and therefore the grading reduces to moderate - however you do need to be a competent cyclist to ride an e-bike. The route primarily follows designated bike paths, ensuring a safe and scenic journey. However, there are certain sections, particularly near the Gotthardpass, where the route includes roads shared with vehicles. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced teenagers and adults.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
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