Crossing Switzerland: Basel to Ticino Cycle

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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