Yippee, spring is returning! For outdoor fans like me, this means dusting off the bike and getting out on the trail! My journey takes me to Locarno, where the possibilities for biking are almost limitless. In addition to trails on the mountain, there are also trails along turquoise-blue rivers. Let’s go!
Bike with a view!
Immediately after arriving in the pretty town of Locarno, I jump on my bike. Today, I’m going up high! Part of the Cardada Trail at 1340 m ASL is on the agenda. After climbing the first few metres of altitude to the Cardada-Orselina base station with my own muscle power (it’s not possible to take my bike on the funicular railway from Locarno to Madonna del Sasso), I can take my bike into the gondola. In just a few minutes, I’m back on the mountain with a magnificent view of the bright blue Lake Maggiore!
The Cardada Trail offers wonderful views during this bike adventure. © Corsin Näff
Just a few hundred metres from the mountain station is the Cardara-Cimetta chairlift, where I can also transport my bike. I don’t let this opportunity pass me by, and the highlights include not only the friendly staff, but also beautiful nature – and, of course, the varied and superbly marked trails through grassy landscapes and over hill and dale. This mountain bike route is not suitable for beginners. However, it is not a problem for intermediate riders.
Action and fun are guaranteed when biking around Locarno! © Corsin Näff
A well-earned breather
After this adventurous trip, I head for Locarno Youth Hostel. I enjoy a fine coffee on my balcony before heading towards the lakeside promenade. Even the path across the world-famous piazza is magnificent. Strolling along the shores of the lake makes me feel a bit like I’m in Italy. Back at the hostel, I finally fill my stomach with a delicious vegan Yoummi menu.
The balcony of Locarno Youth Hostel is the perfect place to relax after a busy day. © Corsin Näff
Cycling for all!
The next day I absolutely want to bike close to the water! So I’m drawn to the Alta Verzasca Bike Trail. I take the PostBus from Locarno train station to Brione. The cool thing is that public transport is included in the Ticino Ticket. This ticket is presented to you when you check in at the youth hostel. Please make sure to reserve the bus in advance as space is limited – and don’t forget to buy a ticket for your bike.
The easy and beginner-friendly trail starts at the «Ai Piéé» part of the village, winding its way along the almost kitsch-blue Verzasca. Along the way, you will pass various villages where you can marvel at the original stone houses. The tour is family-friendly and there are numerous picnic and barbecue areas in addition to restaurants. The tour is also ideal for gravel bikes.
On the Verzasca Trail, cyclists immerse themselves in unspoilt Ticino. © Corsin Näff
My bike tips
- Always follow the signposted bike trails to keep nature intact
- Take regular breaks and shake out your hands
- Wear a helmet, knee pads and gloves
- Be careful at corners, as other people are also out and about
Gravel instead of mountain bike
You are as enthusiastic about bikes as Sina and want to discover the north of Switzerland? But you don’t necessarily want to rush headlong down the trails? Sina has tested a gravel bike tour for people like you. The route took her and her friend Anja from Buchs in the canton of Sankt Gallen to Kreuzlingen, on to Schaffhausen and finally to Basel.
A different Interlaken
Do you know the Grisons like the back of your hand? Cool bike trails are also waiting for you in Interlaken. Sina is not only a pro on the gravel bike and not a single one of the bike trails across Switzerland is spared her enthusiasm.
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