Gotthard Pass
It is the undisputed king of alpine passes, the legendary connection between northern and southern Switzerland. But have you ever stopped at the top of the Gotthard Pass, instead of just passing through by car or train in the tunnel below? Can you imagine how local craftsmen lived before the tunnel changed the fate of this region forever?
The Gotthard is more than just a mountain – it is a symbol, a place steeped in myths and history. Here, in the heart of the Alps, one of Switzerland’s most epic stories was written: the construction of the historic tunnel in 1882, a titanic achievement in which humans defied and conquered a hostile natural environment. But the real journey through the Gotthard is not underground – it is the one that takes you to the top, among spectacular landscapes and legendary roads.
A Pass Full of Emotions
Travelling across the Gotthard Pass means leaving motorway traffic behind and immersing yourself in one of Ticino’s most breathtaking landscapes. You can choose to follow the historic Tremola Road, Switzerland’s oldest road, with its winding turns that snake through the mountains like a stone serpent. Or, you can take the modern road, which offers stunning views and leads to a magnificent panoramic terrace, where you can admire the enchanting Leventina Valley and take a well-earned break.
An Adventure for Everyone
Crossing the Gotthard Pass is a unique experience, whatever means of transport you choose:
- By bus – During the summer months, three buses cross the pass daily, allowing you to enjoy the journey without stress.
- By bicycle – For the more adventurous, cycling along the Tremola is an exhilarating challenge that demands strength and determination. A mountain bike is recommended to handle the curves and cobbled surface of this historic road.
- By carriage – If you’re looking for a romantic and nostalgic experience, the legendary Gotthard stagecoaches, drawn by five magnificent horses, offer a journey back in time, filled with history and charm.
A Retreat Between History and Nature
At the summit of the pass, you’ll find the Ospizio San Gottardo, a perfect place to relax in a refined atmosphere, in harmony with the surrounding alpine landscape. And for those keen to learn more about the rich history of this iconic location, the Gotthard National Museum and the fascinating Sasso San Gottardo exhibition space offer an insight into the mountain’s secrets and hidden wonders.
Important: The pass is closed from October to June, so plan your adventure accordingly.
Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the Gotthard, where nature, history, and tradition come together in an unforgettable journey!