The best gravel rides around the Ticaround theo
4.3
(194)
1,734
riders
83
rides
Gravel biking around the Ticaround theo in Ticino, Switzerland, offers a diverse landscape transitioning from Mediterranean environments in the south to Alpine scenery in the north. The region is characterized by its varied topography, including extensive valleys, significant lakes like Maggiore and Lugano, and numerous hills and mountains. Gravel bike routes combine gravel and forest paths with tarmac sections, providing a range of terrains for cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around the Ticaround theo
- The most popular gravel bike trail…
Last updated: May 22, 2026
2.8
(6)
26
riders
52.4km
05:16
670m
670m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
2
riders
21.5km
02:17
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
4
riders
22.0km
02:06
120m
120m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(19)
250
riders
57.8km
03:39
410m
410m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(33)
176
riders
62.6km
03:54
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(18)
115
riders
63.2km
04:04
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(7)
71
riders
74.0km
04:01
200m
200m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
34
riders
64.4km
03:58
370m
370m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(1)
20
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
50
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
very cute
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Naviglio Grande cycle path highly recommended
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At Caseificio del Gottardo, you can learn about the production of its famous and popular cheeses and buy not only fine cheese but also other Ticinese delicacies. There are guided tours of the dairy and a restaurant. More information about the dairy in general can be found here: https://www.caseificiodelgottardo.ch/Willkommen If you have time and inclination, you can also make your own cheese by appointment. This will be sent to your home in Switzerland after a ripening period of three to four months. You can also make fresh butter and even take it with you immediately. More information about this offer can be found here: https://www.caseificiodelgottardo.ch/DE/Die-Casata-in-der-Kserei-Gottardo-ein-besonderes-Erlebnis-der-Kseherstellung-01c7a100.
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The cycle path along the Ticino river offers a fascinating naturalistic and historical route, extending mainly from Sesto Calende (VA) to Pavia, for about 100-120 km within the Ticino Park. It is an ideal destination for cycle tourism, also connected to the Naviglio Grande towards Milan and to routes like the Ciclovia Vento.
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What a fantastic atmosphere! Stop and admire the view!
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Stop for a few minutes to enjoy the view...truly relaxing!
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It was a late 19th-century engineer, Eugenio Villoresi, son of the director of the gardens of Villa Reale in Monza, who envisioned extending the irrigation of the fields upstream from this imaginary line. He therefore designed a long canal connecting Lake Maggiore to the Adda River, using its waters to distribute, for a fee, to all the fields between the canal and the fountain line. Obtaining the government concession and securing the project's financing was certainly no easy feat; Villoresi did not see its completion, which took place in 1890, 11 years after his death.
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Santa Caterina del Sasso, Leggiuno Santa Caterina del Sasso Ballaro (actually Eremo di Santa Catarina del Sasso Ballara) was originally a hermitage. It is now located in the Italian municipality of Leggiuno in the province of Varese. In the 13th century, Dominicans converted the building into a monastery. This is a destination for many pilgrimages. It is located directly on Lake Maggiore and, like many former hermitages, is built on a rock in a location that is difficult to access. Construction began in the early 13th century, but the main work dates back to around 1300/1320. The core of the complex is the small church dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria. The nickname "del sasso" means that the building stands on a rock; "Sasso Ballaro" refers to a rockslide in 1640 that caused significant damage. "Sasso ballaro" roughly translates as "wobbly rock." According to tradition, the merchant Alberto Besozzi founded the monastery after he had successfully survived a shipwreck on the lake. He later became a hermit and is buried in the church. In 1230, Dominicans built the small convent and oratory. Around 1450, additional staircases were added to connect the individual parts of the building. In the following centuries, the monastery was rebuilt and expanded several times to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. The 14th-century church tower is still Romanesque. The Renaissance decorations on the current façade date from the 15th century, the numerous frescoes in the former refectory, the arcade, and the church date from the 14th to 17th centuries, and the paintings in the church are Baroque. Due to the steep slope and the difficult subsoil, the interior of the church is shaped to follow the curve of the mountain. It is richly frescoed, although moisture damage has destroyed significant portions of the paintings. The frescoes date primarily from the 16th century and were further enhanced with floral motifs in the 17th century. At the center of the church stands the sarcophagus of the founder, the hermit Alberto. In the courtyard separating the church from the convent building stands an old wine press dating from 1769. Text / Source: Province of Varese - Piazza Libertà No. 1 - 21100 Varese http://www.santacaterinadelsasso.com/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Ticino?
Ticino offers a wide variety of gravel biking experiences, with over 100 routes documented on komoot. These trails cater to different skill levels, from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the canton's diverse landscapes.
What are the difficulty levels of gravel bike trails in Ticino?
The gravel bike trails in Ticino range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 53 moderate routes and 41 difficult routes, providing options for both experienced riders and those looking for a challenge. There are also 15 easier routes for a more relaxed ride.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking routes in Ticino?
Yes, Ticino has routes suitable for families. A great option is the Lake Maggiore Family Tour, a 22 km trail that takes you through the scenic Lake Maggiore region. This route is often completed in about 2 hours and 6 minutes, making it manageable for a family outing.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while gravel biking in Ticino?
Ticino's unique geography offers a transition from Mediterranean environments in the south to stunning Alpine scenery in the north. You can expect to ride through extensive valleys like the Verzasca and Maggia Valleys, along significant lakes such as Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, and across various hills and mountains. The routes often combine gravel and forest paths with tarmac sections, providing varied terrain and breathtaking views.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Ticino?
The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Ticino, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 160 reviews. Riders often praise the region's diverse topography, the blend of Mediterranean and Alpine landscapes, and the well-maintained trails that offer a mix of challenges and scenic beauty. Over 1800 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Ticino's varied terrain.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the region?
Yes, many gravel bike routes in Ticino are designed as loops. For example, the Panperduto Dam – Panperduto Dam loop from Turbigo is a popular moderate 57.8 km path offering a mix of riverside trails and open sections. Another option is the Tenero–Bellinzona Cycle Path – Locarno–Tenero Cycle Path loop from Minusio, a 59.7 km route with moderate difficulty.
What natural attractions can I see along the gravel bike trails in Ticino?
Ticino is rich in natural beauty. You might encounter the Ticino River, or stunning lakes like Lake Ritom. The region is also known for its picturesque valleys such as Verzasca and Maggia, and impressive waterfalls like the Piumogna waterfall near Faido. The landscape transitions from palm trees to glaciers, offering diverse natural sights.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest near the gravel routes?
Yes, Ticino has several historical and cultural landmarks. You could visit the Sasso Corbaro Castle, one of the three castles of Bellinzona, or the Sacro Monte of Ghiffa. The region's traditional villages and the 'museum on the territory' Muggio Valley also offer a glimpse into local history and culture.
Can I access gravel bike routes using public transport in Ticino?
Ticino has a well-developed public transport network, including trains and buses, which can often be used to reach starting points of various routes. While specific routes for public transport access aren't detailed here, the region's infrastructure generally supports combining cycling with public transit, especially in more populated areas and valleys.
What is a good challenging gravel bike route in Ticino?
For a challenging ride, consider the From castle to hermitage trail. This 52.4 km route features significant elevation changes and is rated as difficult, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience for advanced gravel bikers.
Are there any long-distance gravel routes for multi-day trips?
While individual routes listed here are typically day trips, Ticino is home to longer adventures like the 'Ticino Traverso,' a moderate-difficulty route spanning over 325 km that takes riders from the canton's south to its north. This suggests the potential for combining routes for multi-day gravel biking experiences across the region.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Ticino?
Ticino enjoys over 2160 hours of sunshine per year, making it suitable for gravel biking for much of the year. The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While some higher alpine routes might be inaccessible in winter, the Mediterranean climate in the south allows for longer riding seasons.
Most popular routes around the Ticaround theo
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