ViaGottardo, Stage 15/20

From Biasca, the route leads through the Rivieratal valley, sometimes on one side, sometimes on the other side of the Ticino River. A peaceful hike through alluvial forest and along the riverbank, ending in the middle of the fortifications of Bellinzona.

The long, almost level valley hike begins at the Biasca stop. Right at the start, the route reaches its highest point at around 290 metres. It then heads south on yellow-marked hiking trails, initially mostly through woodland. Meadows and open spaces repeatedly appear between the trees, with no major climbs.

After just under two hours, the houses of Lodrino are reached. Shady stretches of woodland, open countryside and scattered settlements then alternate along the route. The slight differences in elevation should not obscure the distance involved: around six hours should be allowed for the 25 kilometres to Bellinzona.

In the final third, the villages and towns draw closer together. The route passes through Daro and finally enters the urban area of Bellinzona. Close to the trail, the Casa del Popolo offers an opportunity to stop for refreshments before the hike ends a few minutes later at the Bellinzona, Stazione stop.