It is always a plus if we can learn something on a hike and so it was on La Via Del Ceneri in Ticino. La Via Del Ceneri opened its gate in March 2021 and is part of the Ceneri Base Tunnel celebration.
Together with Ticino Turismo we checked out the new path and we can wholeheartedly recommend it.
From the Piazza Ticino (Centre point of Ticino) the trail guided us over the Ceneri Pass and down to Cadenazzo in the Magadino Valley. This is our recommended way to hike it with children.
For the more sporty or families with older kids, you can climb the Ceneri Pass which would give you a great 7km / 420 metres uphill achievement.
You would just have to use this guide in reverse. 🙂
The “Via del Ceneri” is a tribute to the importance of the region. At the end of 2020, the missing piece of the railway network was completed with the New Ceneri Base Tunnel. A big moment for the canton of Ticino and the NEAT (Neue Eisenbahn-Alpentransversale), and resulting in a travel time between Zürich and Lugano of less than two hours with no changes.
But also, the two cities of Locarno and Lugano are better connected thanks to the Ceneri Base Tunnel.
The Piazza Ticino – Via del Ceneri
On the Piazza Ticino you will find a “Grand Tour of Switzerland” photo point. The first time we saw it we wondered why here? The Piazza Ticino is historically significant within the history of the county. Information boards explain this history and the build of the different tunnels including the latest addition; The Ceneri Base Tunnel.
In the middle of the Piazza Ticino a totem pole may attract your attention. This rather unusual tower was built from rock extracted from the building of the Gotthard and the Ceneri basis tunnels.
On “La Via Del Ceneri” in Ticino
There is a lot to discover, learn and see. Walking on this path that for centuries served hikers, pilgrims, military, and traders bringing their goods and news over the alps, made it even more special.
After about a kilometre of walking uphill to the highest point of our hike, a solitary Roccolo (stone tower to hunt the birds) appeared on a plateau surrounded by a forest.
The path of La Via del Ceneri continues downhill through the forest and different illustrated didactic boards along the way explain the forest trees that are seen in the area. Further along additional boards tell the stories and history of the place.
Continue on the path and it guides you to an open area with picnic tables and a beautiful view down the valley.
Middle section of La Via Del Ceneri
When you arrive at the small village of Robasacco, the kids will find a great “il bosco dei sensi” Wooden adventure play area for the senses.
There is no way you can pass this without letting the kids have a go. Therefore make sure you do have enough time before hiking downhill to the train station.
TIP: as it is mainly a downhill path and should you decide you have walked far enough, in Robasacco you could jump on a bus to the train station at Cadenazzo.
After a good stop at the play area, we then carried on with our hike and once more found the path winding through the forest between a carpet of “Bärlauch” – wild garlic leaves whose odour was filling the air.
At the end of La Via Del Ceneri
Before the last downhill section, you will get to a newly restored water mill. On a warm summer day this place is ideal for a picnic and to let the kids play in the water. You can cool down and refresh your feet after all the walking downhill.
A beautiful place with table and benches in a rural setting.
Finish the hike by continuing downhill to Cadenazzo where you can take public transport back to your starting point.
Hiking Map along “La Via Del Ceneri”
How the map works: Click on “Learn More” to get to the full map layout with profile and interactive route indicator.
Hiking Facts
Location:: Piazza Ticino in Rivera to Cadenazzo
Length:: 6.9 km one way
Level:: Moderate T2 -T3 (downhill) – hiked with kids age 5.5
Highest point:: 625 m
Ascent 73m / Descent 424m
Good to know
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- If you hike it with young family members I suggest following our itinerary. For a more strenuous hike start in Cadenazzo, hike 7 km, and climb 420m altitude along the way.
- You need good shoes along the Via del Ceneri
- It is not pushchair friendly
- You could take a bus down to the train station from Robasacco.
Your Ticino Travel Guide
- Val Piora – Discover the Ticino Mountains by Bike or on Foot
- The Very BEST Ticino Moments – The Ultimate Guide
- Is Lugano worth Visiting? This 4 Day Lugano Itinerary will tell you!
- Best Ticino : Places to Visit In Ticino Switzerland – Over 11 Places plus a location MAP
- The BoBosco Trail – Verzasca Valley – Family Theme Trail
- Monte Generoso & Cardada – Viewpoints reachable with ease
I hope that the information provided here will prove itself useful when planning your Hike along La Via Del Ceneri – the new theme path in Ticino.
If I have left anything out or you have a question, please ask your questions in the comments below. So that other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries also.
Note: We have been invited by Ticino Turismo – Thank you for this again.
As always, you can be sure that we will express our views and enthusiasm here.
Thank you & Never Forget to Explore
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