Trans Swiss Trail, Stage 28/32

At Biasca the valley opens out into a wide long plain: the Riviera. Here begin magnificent rambles along the banks of the Ticino, mostly through riverside forests, often also on a river barrage. At the end, Bellinzona and its three castles.

From Biasca railway station, the route initially leads out of the town. After just a few minutes, the trail reaches its highest point at around 290 m. From there, the route remains almost level, alternating between woodland, open meadows and settlements. The minimal elevation gain makes the 25-kilometre route pleasant, although its length still requires stamina.

The consistently yellow-waymarked trail leads to Lodrino, a distinctive intermediate stop in the valley. Longer stretches of woodland then characterise the route, interspersed with open terrain and small settlements. Rather than major climbs, this section is defined by the steady rhythm of walking.

Towards the end, the urban area of Bellinzona draws closer. The route leads via Lusanico and Daro into a more densely built-up area. Castelgrande, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising Bellinzona’s castles and walls, lies a little over 400 metres off the route. After around six hours, the hike ends directly at Bellinzona railway station.