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Bike touring routes & trails

Switzerland

Ticino

Locarno, Ascona, and Tenero Loop

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Switzerland

Ticino

Locarno, Ascona, and Tenero Loop

Easy

4.5

(175)

1,724

riders

Locarno, Ascona, and Tenero Loop

Q: What is the difficulty and terrain like for this cycling tour?

This loop tour is classified as an easy bike ride , suitable for all fitness levels and beginners. The terrain is predominantly paved, with approximately 19.6 km of asphalt, 1.39 km of cobblestones, and 680 meters of paved sections, making it comfortable for most bicycles.

01:19

21.8km

80m

Cycling

This easy 13.6-mile touring cycling loop connects Locarno, Tenero, and Ascona, offering scenic lakeside views and charming towns.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

3.05 km

Piazza Grande, Locarno

Highlight • Settlement

The Piazza Grande represents the historical center of Locarno. It boasts splendid arcades, under which there is no shortage of shops and restaurants. The square is adorned with splendid historical buildings. In the summer season the square hosts important concerts (such as Moon & Stars) and the International Film Festival.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

12.0 km

Lakeside Cycle Path Locarno–Tenero

Highlight • Cycleway

Beautiful bike path overlooking the lake, very popular but spacious and with excellent asphalt conditions. It's the perfect connection between Locarno and Tenero and vice versa.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

12.6 km

San Quirico Church and Medieval Bell Tower

Highlight • Religious Site

In the Quartier Rivapiana stands the church of San Quirico e Giolitta, which was already mentioned in 1313 as a place of worship. It was expanded in later centuries and their orientation changed. In the single-nave church room, three fresco cycles can be seen along the walls: on the south wall, some fragments of the oldest frescoes from the 13th century, with scenes from the life of Jesus; on the south wall the cycle with scenes of the Nativity and the Adoration of the Magi (15th century); on the triumphal arch a fresco of the Annunciation, with a vivid cityscape in the background (16th century); on the north wall. over the old church gate, an Enthroned Madonna and San Rocco. Near the church is a tower of medieval design, whose oldest part goes back to the 12th century. Rebuilt at the end of the 15th century as a bell tower, it used to be a watchtower, probably dating back to an earlier construction than the church.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

17.0 km

Maggia Cycle and Pedestrian Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

Bridge with a separate cycle path over the Maggia which connects the two towns of Locarno and Ascona.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

19.5 km

Collegio Papio and Church of Santa Maria della Misericordia

Highlight • Religious Site

The Collegio Papio was born in 1585. At that time, the building was built in the Renaissance style on the initiative of Charles Borromeo. Architecturally, the Roman Catholic secondary school is based on a project by the Italian architect Tibaldo Pellegrino from Valsolda. Bartolomeo Papio, who owed his wealth to the service of the Orsini in Rome, made the largest financial contribution. The collegio's namesake even gave up his palazzo in Ascona in order to make all his belongings available to his home community for the establishment of this Jesuit college. The location of the building next to the church of Santa Maria della Misericordia was deliberately chosen.

Located next to a Dominican monastery, the Collegio Papio was used as a college and seminary. This monastery was secularized in 1852 and placed under the apostolic administrator of the diocese of Lugano in 1885. Leadership by other religious orders such as the Assumptionists followed. In the second half of the 20th century, on the initiative of the Swiss Bishop Angelo Jelmini, the Collegio was entrusted to the direction of the diocesan clergy. Rectors Amédée Grab and Pier Giacomo Grampa worked in the Collegio Papio.
Source: lago-maggiore.de/excursion destinations/collegio-papio-ascona.html

Translated by Google •

Tip by

21.8 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

7.86 km

6.99 km

4.93 km

1.78 km

227 m

Surfaces

18.8 km

1.97 km

717 m

109 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Tuesday 12 May

13°C

4°C

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty and terrain like for this cycling tour?

This loop tour is classified as an easy bike ride, suitable for all fitness levels and beginners. The terrain is predominantly paved, with approximately 19.6 km of asphalt, 1.39 km of cobblestones, and 680 meters of paved sections, making it comfortable for most bicycles.

What kind of scenery and landmarks can I expect along the route?

You'll experience breathtaking landscapes, cycling along the shores of Lake Maggiore and riverbanks. Highlights include passing by Piazza Grande in Locarno, enjoying the Lakeside Cycle Path Locarno–Tenero, and seeing historical sites like San Quirico Church and Medieval Bell Tower. The route also offers views of picturesque villages and natural beauty, such as the "Bolle di Magadino" nature reserve.

Where can I park and how do I access the starting point?

The loop connects Locarno, Tenero, and Ascona, offering multiple potential starting points. You can find parking in any of these towns. For example, Locarno has various parking facilities near the city center or along the lake. Public transport options are also available to reach these towns, and some services allow bikes.

Is the Locarno, Tenero and Ascona loop tour dog-friendly?

While the route is generally accessible, specific rules for dogs on cycling paths or in public areas within Locarno, Tenero, and Ascona may vary. It's advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in populated areas and near other cyclists or pedestrians. Always carry water for your dog.

What is the best time of year to cycle this route?

The region of Ticino is known for its mild climate, making this route enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for cycling, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Always check the local weather forecast before you go.

Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this cycling route?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Locarno, Tenero and Ascona loop tour itself, as it primarily uses public roads and dedicated cycle paths. However, individual attractions or facilities along the way might have their own entry fees.

Are there places to eat or drink along the route?

Yes, as the route passes through the vibrant towns of Locarno, Tenero, and Ascona, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs. These towns offer a wide range of dining options to suit various tastes, perfect for a break or a meal.

Can I rent a bike in the area?

Yes, bike rentals are readily available in Locarno, Tenero, and Ascona. This makes the loop tour accessible even if you don't bring your own bicycle. Check local tourism offices or sports shops for rental options and availability.

Does this cycling route connect with other trails?

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notable sections include parts of the Cammino del Lago Maggiore - Tappa Ascona - Vira (Gambarogno), the Grand Tour del Lago Maggiore ® - Tappa 9 - Vira Gambarogno (CH) - Ascona (CH), and the Percorso Valle Maggia. You'll also find smaller segments of the Helsana Trail Tenero gelb 11.68km and the Ciclovia Svizzera mare.

Is this loop tour suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The predominantly flat and paved terrain, combined with its easy difficulty rating, makes this an ideal route for families with children. The scenic views and opportunities to stop in the towns add to its family-friendly appeal.

What should I wear or bring for this cycling tour?

Given the easy nature of the ride, comfortable cycling attire is recommended. Bring water, snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and a basic bike repair kit. A camera is also a good idea to capture the beautiful lakeside and town views.