Tour Type
Explorer
Riding Level
Leisure
Location
Ticino, Switzerland
Duration
5 days | 4 nights
Length
20 to 95 km daily
Climb
100 up to 1,870 m daily
Ticino is perhaps a jewel of a canton, a Swiss anomaly. Separated from the rest of the country by the high Alps, this beautiful region is infused with the warmth of a Mediterranean climate, earning it the affectionate German moniker of Sonnenstube - the Sun Porch. Here, the renowned efficiency of Switzerland blends effortlessly with Italian language, cuisine, and la dolce vita.
This unique blend of cultures is perfectly explored from the saddle. Cyclists will find a paradise of options, from tranquil rides along the shores of Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano to challenging climbs into the deep, verdant valleys of Vallemaggia and Verzasca, reaching alpine elevations of over 2,000 metres.
Combine these beautiful mountain and lake environments with charming, characterful hotels and superb Italian cuisine, temperate weather and you have the recipe for a truly delightful Swiss-Italian tour.
Make it Private
Buongiorno and welcome to Ticino! The Grand Tours Project team will be waiting at Lugano Train Station to transfer to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, we will ensure your bike is perfectly adjusted for the days ahead. To get a first feel for the region, we will head out for a gentle welcome ride on the quiet roads surrounding Lugano. The evening begins with a welcome drink and a tour briefing, where we will hand out the GTP cycle kit and outline the journey ahead. It’s a great opportunity to get to know your fellow riders and guides before we sit down for dinner at the hotel.
Starting from the valley entrance along a dedicated cycle path and quiet roads , discover a landscape of raw natural beauty unfolding beside the emerald crystal clear waters of the Maggia River, passing through charming stone villages connected by historic arched bridges. As you climb higher, the scenery transitions to pristine green pastures, lush forests, and towering peaks. The route continues toward Fusio, with the achingly beautiful Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista in Mogno serving as a spectacular landmark on your way to the summit. Lago del Sambuco marks the end of your ascent. Return to the picturesque village of Fusio for a light lunch followed by a rewarding descent back to Locarno. Alternatively, you could also detour into a quiet hidden valley to San Carlo – ridiculously scenic and well worth the effort.
Today is a challenging and spectacular cross-border ride, a true alpine epic. Starting in Locarno on the shores of Lake Maggiore, you will ride along the eastern shoreline to the small village of Vira Gambarogno, where the ascent begins. From there, you will take on the famous Alpe di Neggia, a true alpine classic renowned for its challenging but rewarding switchbacks. The ride is a constant climb on Swiss roads, providing an ever-expanding panorama of the entire lake and the surrounding peaks. After reaching the summit, a thrilling descent takes you into Italy and back towards the lake, completing a magnificent loop that spans two countries and offers some of the most memorable views of the tour.
Pack the swimwear today! Beginning in Tenero, the route gradually takes you into a landscape that feels like a hidden paradise, far removed from the modern world. You’ll cycle alongside the emerald waters of the Verzasca River, which carves its way through the rock creating crystal clear pools – havens in summer – passing by ancient stone villages with their traditional arched bridges. While this ride offers a gentler profile than the high-alpine climbs, it is no less rewarding and unforgettable.
After a final Swiss-Italian breakfast, the tour comes to an end. From the high-alpine vistas conquered on Alpe di Neggia to the tranquil beauty of Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia, we hope you have enjoyed your journey and have taken a true taste of la dolce vita. After checking out of your hotel, the Grand Tours Project team will provide a transfer to the Lugano Train Station for your onward journey.
This is a brand new Swiss tour for 2026 – you can find our other Swiss tours here.
*transfers can be arranged from Milano Malpensa Airport for a fee per person.
