The Strada Alta is a classic among the trails in the Leventina area, in the canton of Tessin. The entire route is about 45 km long and leads along the southern slopes of Airolo to the village of Biasca. It is said that the section between Deggio and Rossura is the most beautiful of the whole route.
I am actually proposing a small, only 14 km long section from Strada Alta, leading from Ambrì-Piet to Faido. But even here there was no lack of picturesque mountain landscapes.
In addition, the traditional and somewhat neglected buildings, old chapels and deserted villages along the way created a unique atmosphere. Apart from that, the path was overgrown in places, which rather proves little human interference. This makes you feel closer to nature. I must admit that this non-commercial, old-fashioned atmosphere appeals to me.
A few tips about the route
Of course the trail itself is well marked and you should not get lost. Just follow the signposts directing you to Strada Alta.
The first kilometre is through the town. In this case you can walk right next to the street or choose a slightly quieter option, closer to the greenery (on the map I have included the second option). Then you have to cross under the motorway to the other side, and then turn right after a small bridge.
The crossing under the motorway itself is quite peculiar and if it wasn’t for the signs stating that a trail runs through here, I wouldn’t have thought it was a pedestrian area. Probably the area is still under renovation, so it may look more friendly in the future.
Further on we faced a few hundred metres climb up to Deggio. The whole route, despite being a classic in this area, was very quiet and without crowds of hikers. Even the villages were deserted.
Forgotten Faido
Finally, we arrived at Faido, known years ago as “St. Moritz des Tessins” for the rich. Once the cream of the crop from Italy and Switzerland came here for their holidays, and the town was bustling with life. Today, unfortunately, the place is empty. This was undoubtedly greatly influenced first by the opening of the Gotthard road tunnel in 1980 and then in 2016 by the inauguration of the base railway tunnel.
Tourists started going for weekends to the towns on the other side of the tunnel, where the sun warmed just as pleasantly and was much closer. Over the years, this beautiful corner has simply been forgotten.
The first things you notice are hotels with rusty signs, closed shutters and crumbling plaster. A sad sight, but one that also creates a specific atmosphere. Undoubtedly a paradise for those specialising in artistic photography.
I am not sure if this description has encouraged many people to visit this region. I believe, however, that there will be people who will appreciate the specific atmosphere of this place.