Hiking holidays Trans Swiss Trail Gotthardpass & Strada Alta TO
Hiking: Trans Swiss Trail
In the heart of the Alps
The heart of the Alps beats at Gotthard pass. Countless rivers and springs have their source on this plateau, and one of the most important trade routes in Europe has been running through it for centuries. The hike begins in the Urseren valley and leads through the wild and romantic Schöllenen gorge.
It is a steep route up to Gotthard pass, where mountain flowers continue to bloom even in summer. Passing it, you reach the Strada Alta, one of the most famous high-altitude trails in Switzerland. The landscape changes and slowly Mediterranean flair replaces the cool mountain air.
A stage for railroad fans: The route partly runs right next to the tracks of the now "old" Gotthard railroad line (long-distance trains rush through the world's longest railroad tunnel under the Gotthard Mountains). The towns of Göschenen and Andermatt play an important role in the history of Gotthard traffic. The legendary Schöllenen gorge lies between them.
The route follows the paving of the venerable mule track to the pass of passes. Varied, colourful alpine flora. The striking ventilation system of the Gotthard car tunnel resembles a music pavilion.
From the pass with its old refuge, the Hospiz, and Totenkappelle (Cemetery Chapel), the section leads to the world-famous Tremolastrasse, which climbs an impressive 340 metres around 24 bends. Once you reach Airolo, the obere Leventina valley awaits with further discoveries.
Deep down in the valley, traffic roars along the motorway, while peace reigns up on the Strada alta trail. Magnificent views of the Leventina and Val Bedrettotal mountain chains. Bright chapels in villages and field. Osco was once an important trading post.
The mid-section of the Strada alta is thought to be the easiest and most magnificent: almost level, mostly on unsurfaced tracks, with the peaks above the Leventina as constant companions. Chapels and churches for reflection and art enjoyment.
The most romantic but steepest section of the Strada alta trail. The old mule trail leads over rocky spurs and through tranquil chestnut forests to the unique open-air steps above Pollegio. A spurt to the finish at Biasca down in the Leventina Valley.
approx. 4 h
approx. 15 km
495 m
770 m
Day
7
Departure or extension
Tour character
The tours themselves follow well developed hiking trails, but the stages over the Gotthard require sure-footedness. Some longer sections require good basic fitness. You must be in good shape, especially for the sportive version.
Rides by public transport (approx. CHF 7.- per person)
Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
Information
Arrival / Parking / Departure:
Train journey via Zurich to Amsteg.
Free parking available at the hotel.
Return journey by train from Biasca via Erstfeld to Amsteg, duration approx. 1.5 hours.
Travel documents
Travel documents "analogous"
By default, your travel package includes a set of travel documents, which we will transmit you in advance. The following documents will inform you about your tour:
Travel program with all organizational details.
Official guidebook «Cycling Switzerland»
maps for your biking and/or hiking routes
Detailed maps about your stage locations
Detailed programme day-by-day
Travel documents "digital"
If you select the option "digital travel documents" when booking, we will provide you with all documents for your trip in a digital form. You will receive a small set of documents with the following content:
Manuals for the use of necessary apps
luggage tags
eventual vouchers
En route you will inform yourself easily with the app of SwitzerlandMobility and other free apps. Background information and all other documents are electronically assigned and can be downloaded to your mobile phone in advance.
Since this option saves resources and costs, a discount of CHF 30.- per room is offered.