Cycling day trip from Andermatt to Bellinzona

If you’re up for an epic ride crossing the heart of the Swiss Alps, this route from Andermatt to Bellinzona is a must! You’ll kick things off in Andermatt, a historic mountain town famous as a crossroads for Alpine passes (and a favorite among rail fans thanks to the scenic Glacier Express). From there, get ready to climb—big time. With nearly 3,000 meters of ascent and a maximum elevation over 2,100 meters, you’ll tackle some serious alpine roads and classic passes, all with breathtaking views.

The route is a mix of surfaces, mostly smooth pavement, though you’ll find the odd cobblestone or gravel section to keep things interesting. Expect mostly quiet roads, though the occasional busier stretch and mountain tracks add variety and challenge.

Eventually, you’ll glide (and I mean glide, thanks to over 4,000 meters of descent!) into Bellinzona. This sunny Swiss-Italian city is famous for its trio of UNESCO-listed castles and delicious Ticinese cuisine—a perfect reward after your mountain adventure. Bring an extra snack and your camera, because every kilometer here is pure cycling gold!