The best cycling routes around Mesocco
4.8
(122)
2,678
riders
69
rides
Touring cycling around Mesocco offers diverse landscapes, from the alpine terrain of the San Bernardino Pass to the milder climate of the Mesolcina Valley. The region features challenging mountain climbs, scenic descents along the Moesa River, and routes utilizing former railway lines. Cyclists encounter varied topography, including pine forests, wide alpine meadows, and distinctive rock formations.
Best touring cycling routes around Mesocco
- The most popular touring cycling route is San Bernardino and the dirt roads along Lake d'Isola − loop…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
36
riders
17.9km
01:40
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
9.15km
00:47
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
46
riders
34.0km
02:42
940m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
45
riders
31.8km
02:40
1,010m
1,010m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
81
riders
45.0km
03:43
1,450m
1,450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Along the wall by the road towards the village center, you will find a large mural with an elephant. The work comes from the Swiss artist duo NEVERCREW and addresses the relationship between humans and nature.
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Great atmosphere and beautiful view
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Church of St. Rocco, San Rocco / Mesocco Church and Convent of St. Rocco, San Rocco / Mesocco Church and Convent of Capuchin Friars, circa 1550 to 1668 The Church of St. Rocco probably dates back to the early 16th century and is characterized by its Baroque style, which was renovated in 1935. The single-nave church features elegant plaster vaults, while the choir is decorated with a cross vault with frescoes by Francesco Antonio Giorgioli. The building became a hospice for Capuchin friars in 1668. In 1671, chapels were added on either side of the choir, and later, in 1730, two side chapels were added. Text / Source: Ente Turistico Regionale del Moesano (ETRM), Cantonàl 94, San Bernardino https://www.visit-moesano.ch/de/chiesa-san-rocco
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Moësa (River) Moesa to Mesocco The Moësa rises at an altitude of approximately 2,245 meters above sea level on the Alpe Moesola above the San Bernardino Pass in the canton of Graubünden. After its source, it flows down to the top of the pass and feeds the first lake on its journey – the Laghetto Moesola – near the hospice. Leaving the lake at its southern end, it loses some elevation and then, at approximately 1,860 meters, joins the Riale Mucia stream from the right. A little later, the Moesa River also reaches the first village, San Bernardino (1,640 meters). It flows right through the center of the Graubünden village, merging with both the Ri de Fontanalba and Ri de Confin. While still in the village, it then flows into the Lago d'Isola reservoir. After the dam, the Moesa descends steeply, flowing through a gorge into the hamlet of Spina. It also shoots over the beautiful Moesa Waterfall and is joined by the Ri del Bech, Riale di Arbeola, and Riale de Spina streams. The Moesa now has a short distance to go to the village of Pian San Giacomo (1200 m), where it joins the Ri de Seda. After another steep drop and several tributaries (such as the Ri de Brion, Ri de Gratela, and Ri de Anzon), the river then reaches Mesocco (approx. 770 m). Text / Source: schweizerfluss.ch https://schweizerfluss.ch/moesa/
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Hotel Bellevue, San Bernardino since 1858 The Hotel Bellevue was first mentioned in 1858 and was built by the landowner Gaspare Motto, a landowner from Mesocco. Motto built the mineral spring building together with Paolo Battaglia. At the beginning of the 19th century, the resort hosted numerous spa guests, mainly from nearby Ticino, Lombardy, and Piedmont. The Desteffanis family is also mentioned, but the details of their management are unclear (probably around 1870). Luigi Toschini (1832–1915) bought the hotel in 1896 and later handed over the business to his sons Samuele (1857–1943) and Giovanni (1873–1925) and their respective families. At that time, the Bellevue's capacity was limited, consisting of 18 rooms (for tourists) and 4 for staff. A special feature of the hotel's cellar was a room called "giazéira" in the local dialect, which was filled with snow and ice in the spring to keep drinks and food cool. In 1932, the hotel was sold to the Thorner-Blatter family from the Canton of Bern, who are also the current owners of Villa Flora. In 1937, the Thorner-Blatter family decided to sell the building to the Studer family, who later resold it to Mr. Oldenburg. In 1955, the Thorner-Blatter family repurchased the hotel. In 1965, the Schmidlin family bought the hotel and ran it until 1984. In the 1960s and 1970s, the Schmidlin family was known in San Bernardino for breeding several St. Bernard dogs, which lived in the garden next to the hotel, where the terrace is today. The Schmidlin family later bred up to 15 St. Bernards and became the symbol of their business during those years. In 1984, Hans and Meta Wellig, the former owners of the Hotel National Ravizza, purchased the Hotel Bellevue with the intention of continuing the family tradition. Text / Source: Hotel Bellevue, San Bernardino https://bellevue-sanbernardino.ch/
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When cycling up route 6, the A13 eventually becomes the intermediate goal as one cycles up and up and comes closer in elevation to the highway.
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The lake can be bypassed with a mountain bike. Two gates can only be bypassed by stopping and pushing. :-(
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Every curve along the San Bernardino Pass road has a name
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of touring cycling routes can I find around Mesocco?
Mesocco offers a diverse range of touring cycling experiences. You'll find challenging alpine climbs around the San Bernardino Pass, scenic descents along the Moesa River through the Mesolcina Valley, and routes that utilize former railway lines for a gentler ride. The terrain varies from pine forests and wide alpine meadows to distinctive rock formations and high-alpine landscapes.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Mesocco has routes suitable for all skill levels. For an easier option, consider the Lago Dosso and Lago d'Isola from San Bernardino − loop tour, which is an easy 9.1 km path offering views of two lakes near San Bernardino. The region features 5 easy routes in total, often found in the valley sections or along former railway tracks.
What are some of the natural highlights or landmarks I can see while cycling in Mesocco?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past stunning alpine scenery near the San Bernardino Pass, including the distinctive 'roche moutonnée' landscape with countless moors and small lakes. Notable natural features include Sufnersee, Lake Dosso, and the impressive Catino Waterfall. The ruins of the 11th-century Castello di Mesocco also offer superb views of the valley.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Mesocco?
Yes, many routes in Mesocco are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the San Bernardino and the dirt roads along Lake d'Isola − loop tour and the San Bernardino Village – Lake Dosso loop from San Bernardino. These circular routes are convenient for exploring the diverse landscapes of the region.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Mesocco?
Due to its diverse climate zones, Mesocco offers varied conditions. The lower Mesolcina Valley enjoys a milder, almost Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant for cycling even when there's snow higher up. For routes involving the San Bernardino Pass, late spring to early autumn (roughly May to October) is generally best, as the pass can be snow-covered outside these months. Always check local conditions before heading out.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Mesocco region?
There are over 60 touring cycling routes available around Mesocco. These routes cater to various preferences, with 5 easy, 17 moderate, and 39 difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable ride for every skill level.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Mesocco?
The touring cycling routes in Mesocco are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 90 reviews. More than 2200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region, often praising the varied terrain, from challenging alpine ascents to scenic valley rides along the Moesa River.
Can I find places to eat or stay along the cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers amenities for cyclists. Towns like San Bernardino have restaurants and hotels. In the lower Mesolcina Valley, you can find traditional 'Grotti' which provide opportunities for restorative breaks and to sample local dishes and wine, perfect for refueling during your ride.
Are there any routes that follow historical paths or former railway lines?
Absolutely. Part of the cycling routes, particularly the Mesocco-Trail, utilizes the former railway line between Bellinzona and Mesocco. This offers a unique cycling experience, passing through small tunnels and over bridges, providing a relatively flatter and enjoyable ride through the valley.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Mesocco offers several difficult routes. The Bench With View of the Valley – Mesocco train station loop from Passo del San Bernardino is a demanding 44.6 km trail leading through alpine landscapes. Another challenging option is the San Bernardino Pass Road – Hinterrhein Village loop from San Bernardino, which features significant elevation changes.
Are there any gorges or canyons accessible by bike or nearby the routes?
While some gorges might require hiking to fully explore, the region features several impressive natural formations. The Cardinello Gorge is a notable feature in the area, and you might find routes that offer views or pass near these dramatic landscapes. Always check the route details for accessibility.
How can I reach the cycling routes in Mesocco using public transport?
Mesocco is located in the Mesolcina Valley, which is generally accessible by public transport, particularly bus services connecting to larger towns like Bellinzona or Chur. For specific route starting points, it's advisable to check local bus schedules to see which stops are closest to your desired cycling trailheads.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking in Mesocco, beyond touring cycling?
Yes, Mesocco is also a popular destination for mountain biking. The region boasts a network of mountain biking trails, including popular options like Pizzo Uccello, Pignela #642, and Pian Cales #641. The Mesolcina Bike route is specifically highlighted as a downhill mountain bike route starting from San Bernardino Pass, traversing diverse trails down to Lostallo.
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