Ponte Tibetano Carasc — Local services in Circolo di Bellinzona

A must see. Maybe we did it wrong but it did require a fair share of hiking. We started out at the base where you can catch a cable car but we decided to do the hike. It was beautiful, stunning nature , lovely vineyards and quaint little villages along the way. The pathway is well marked but you do need good footwear , parts were quite steep with different type of terrain, at times you are walking on big rocks , the forest terrain and then some paved sections. We followed route 628 on the Swiss mobility app. It really was well worth doing. In total including a few breaks it took us 4 1/2 hours. This allowed us a lot of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Ticino is one of my favourite canyons in Switzerland because of the ‘Mediterranean’ feel and often it is warmer. We were blessed with a stunning blue sky and temperature of around 25 degrees. Saying that , a large part of the hike is between shaded areas which helps a lot. Best of both worlds , the warmth in the air but some protection from the sun. The bridge itself is quite an awesome structure. We were lucky and there were not too many people on it. The views were just so relaxing looking at all the greenery that was surrounding us. The hike was slightly physically strenuous but tranquil and actually quite rejuvenating. I would suggest you pack a rucksack with sufficient water and drinks a few snacks and literally this hike will cost you nothing. Bellinzona is the main train station in the area. There are also quite a few water drinking fountains but still pack your own and then you can refill at these...

The hike to Ponte Tibetano Carasc even from Curzùtt cable car station, which is the easier route, requires some level of fitness. Be sure to equip yourself with hiking shoes and water bottles (I brought 1 liters).

📍 Take the cable car from [Monte Carasso - Mornera]. Be sure to book in advanced online! When arriving at Curzùtt (make sure not to miss this stop), press the stop button and then open and close the door once out.

🥾 Hiking Trail: Curzùtt to Ponte Tibetano Carasc (return route). The trail starts easy till San Bernardo church. After which, there is a need to hike through the forest to Tibetan bridge, with a series of pretty steep climbs. On the trail, follow the white or yellow signs indicating “Ponte Tibetano Carasc”. I encountered an area with two paths without sign, I followed the better paved road and gladly, I was on the right road.

📸 Ponte Tibetano Carasc is 270 meters long and 130 meters above the valley floor. The suspension bridge crosses the valley that separates the areas of Monte Carasso and Sementina.

🪧 Once you’ve crossed the bridge, there are three routes to continue (in order of difficulty):

1. Return back to 🚡Curzùtt. It takes average 50min.

2. To Sementina via San Defendente. 🚏Motto Bus Stop. This has gentler slopes, it takes average 1hr 40min.

3. To Sementina via Pedemonte. 🚏Via Locarno Bus Stop. This is a steeper route, it takes average 1hr 10min.

⛰ Stats for Curzùtt return route (according to my Garmin): distance 6km; elevation +326m -326m; 2:00 moving time (basic fitness); 3:00 elapsed time.

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The 270 m long Tibetan bridge build by the Foundation Curzútt-S. Barnard allows the passage of the rugged valley that separates the communities of Sementina and Monte Carasso, two towns located in front of Bellinzona. The bridge joins the stone made village of Curzútt to the hiking path of “Via delle Vigne”, allowing you to make excursions in an area characterized by a landscape rich in cultural heritages.

Anchored at a height of 696 m, the bridge rises 130 m above the ground. The walkway, large approximatively one meter, is made of larch wood. Crossing it is a unique experience that represents a true challenge. The safety measures guarantees a risk-free approach and make it a top-attractions either for young intrepid or adventurous families.

The bridge is easily accessible thanks to the cableway Monte Carasso-Curzútt-Mornera. The ancient and picturesque hill town of Curzútt is the ideal starting point to discover this offer or for a gastronomic stop after this thrilling...