In the north of Switzerland it’s gloomy, dreary and raining, so we set off through the Gotthard Tunnel to Tessin, specifically to Locarno. After leaving the train station, we head for the municipal railway called Madonna del Sasso Orselina and ride up to Orselina Funicolare. Then by gondola we reach Cardada (1,340 m).

Superb views from Cardada station

This is an attractive place because of the views, but also because of the attractions for children. Here you will find a restaurant, playground and wood carvings. You can have a picnic, as there is no shortage of benches and tables. I also saw a giant chess set.

But we go further in the direction of Alpe Cardada. The route itself is not difficult, because hills are quite gentle. But legs may hurt, because it is 14 km long road. However, I assure you that the views will compensate everything. Throughout the entire route you can admire the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Just be careful and look under your feet.

Cimetta – another viewpoint

Next, we reach Cimetta at 1,671 m above sea level with an amazing viewpoint. You can also get here by chairlift and thus shorten the route by about 1 hour. The view is the same, as the route runs almost under the lift. The only thing you need to take with you is warm clothing, as it can be windy at the top. It was not very warm down there either.

On the section to the Cimetta station you pass various places where you can eat and drink. Later on, however, you can only count on your own supplies.

Further on we go even higher. But do not be afraid of hard climbing. The route goes gently upwards and you can enjoy the views.

Old stone houses

As you descend towards Mergoscia, you pass old stone houses and waterfalls which are numerous at this time of year. Some of these houses are still inhabited. I must admit that these mountain settlements with stone houses made a huge impression on me. One is transported to another epoch in such a place.

I saw the information that you can rent such a house (the information is among the photos) and feel on your own skin what it is like to live under a stone roof.

Hitchhiking in Tessin

After a few hours we arrive at the bus stop Mergoscia Busada tired, but charged with positive impressions. The only downside of this route is the bus that goes to Locarno every two hours. But there is no such thing as a good thing.

Luke and I are in hot water and, faced with the prospect of waiting over an hour for thebus, we decide to walk down the bus route and hitchhike. We walked maybe 100m and a nice family stopped and gave us a lift to Bellinzona.

I don’t have much experience in hitchhiking, but so far in Switzerland I have had no problem finding a lift when public transport has failed.