ViaGottardo, Stage 11/20

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.

From the Gotthard Passhöhe bus stop, the hike begins almost at the highest point of the route, at around 2,090 m. At the Cappella di San Gottardo, the mountain path starts its long descent. The open terrain at the pass affords views of the surrounding mountains, while the small Lago dei Morti lies not far from the path.

The path then loses elevation rapidly. It descends across pastures and through increasingly wooded slopes, mostly following a white-red-white waymarked mountain path. The route drops almost 950 metres over seven kilometres, with counter-ascents barely registering. Even without a long climb, the descent therefore requires concentration and sure-footedness.

Towards the end, the forest gives way and the first houses of Airolo come into view. The path passes the Chiesa Santi Nazario e Celso and continues into the village. After a little over two hours, the hike ends at the Airolo bus stop.