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The Chapel Bridge in Lucerne

Basel – Lugano

The classic Alpine crossing over the Gotthard Pass

8 Days / 7 Nights
Medium
The Chapel Bridge in Lucerne

On this cycling holiday you cross the Alps over the famous Gotthard Pass. You use the north-south route, that connects two of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. From the Dreiländereck (the ‘border triangle’ of France, Germany and Switzerland) in Basel, the route goes over the Jura mountain range to Lucerne. You will discover the Swiss ‘Mittelland’ plateau and central Switzerland, and can relax in beautiful countryside. Whether it is the idyllic Lake Sempach or the larger Lake Lucerne, let your gaze wander over the crystal-clear water and enjoy life! It is also relaxing to cycle through the Suhre river valley and along the Ticino river. You will see Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano. Whenever you have seen enough of water, turn your gaze to the Alpine scenery and admire the Jura mountains in the north.

From Basel you cycle through the hills of the Aargau Jura Park to Aarau, before cycling through the Suhre river valley to Lucerne. There you see Lake Lucerne and take the ferry from Beckenried to Flüelen, before cycling on to Amsteg. The next day, you tackle the Gotthard Pass. You then pedal to Bellinzona and take the train to Rivera Bironico. The destination is Lugano.

  • Basel: Stroll through the medieval old town! The 16th century town hall, with its red sandstone façade, is a real eye-catcher. After sightseeing, you can enjoy the region’s culinary delicacies.
  • Lake Lucerne: This is one of the largest lakes in Switzerland, and connects the ‘Mittelland’ plateau with the Alps.
  • Bellinzona: In the capital of the Swiss canton Ticino, you can visit three medieval castles. Art fans can head to the Museo Villa dei Cedri, which exhibits regional artworks from the 19th century to the present day.
  • Lugano: Lying on the northern shore of Lake Luagno is this picturesque town, combining a Mediterranean flair with the traditions of Switzerland. The Piazza della Riforma encourages you to linger a while.

This cycling holiday has a medium level of difficulty. The route initially leads through a hilly landscape and then comfortably through the Swiss plateau and central Switzerland. From Amsteg it goes steadily uphill, and after the Gotthard Pass, downhill. As you approach urban centres, you will encounter higher traffic volumes. Another challenge is the cobblestones paving the Tremola road on the Gotthard Pass.

itinerary at a glance

There is no shortage of beautiful waters on this tour starting from Basel, whether it's at Lake Sempach, Lake Lucerne, or the Ticino River. The Mediterranean charm of Lake Lugano is enchanting – treat yourself to ice cream at Piazza della Riforma

Day
01
Arrival in Basel

Basel, Liestal and the Ergolztal: a bustling, self-confident agglomeration. In contrast: tranquility and charming countryside in the Baselbiet Jura. On through Aargau's Jurapark hills, followed by a racy descent down the southern Jura slopes to Aarau.

From Aarau the way leads to the idyllic Suhrental river valley; with views of the Alps spotted south and Jura chain north. Through rich orchards and fertile fields alongside Lake Sempach, this stage finally takes you to Lucerne.

The Vierwaldstättersee 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! The Urnerland, an incessant, nervously pulsating transit corridor.

The trip continues through the canton of Uri where the wild Reuss plunges down through the Schöllenenschlucht (gorge), subdued only by sheer mountain walls and the Teufels Brücke (Devil’s Bridge). If by horse, by train or by car. Everyone always wanted and still want to cross the Gotthard southwards.

The Leventina has been a transit corridor since ancient times. The further south, the milder the climate. An easy ride along the waters of the Ticino, soon passing chestnut trees and vineyards. Bellinzona, called «La Turrita» because of its many castles.

You cycle 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. From Agno by train to the centre of Lugano.

Day
08
Departure or extension

Route information

Medium

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 the pass and downhill over the cobblestones of Tremola road. Some traffic around the urban centres.

Prices & Dates

Category: 3***-hotels, hospice at Gotthard Pass

Prices per person in EUR

services & information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation as already mentioned
  • Breakfast
  • Luggage transport
  • Detailed travel documents 1x per room (German, English)

  • 1 Boat ride Beckenried – Flüelen incl. bike
  • 1 Ticino Ticket (several discounts)
  • App for Navigation and GPS-data
  • Service-hotline

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Basel train station
  • Basel-Mulhouse airport

Notes

  • Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
  • Bus ticket Göschenen – Andermatt at Day 5 approx. EUR 5 per person incl. bike
  • Train ticket Cadenazzo – Rivera Bironico at Day 7 approx. EUR 6 per person incl. bike
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!
  • This tour is a partner tour.
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