Alpine landscape and geology at Lago Tremorgio
Above Rodi lies Lago Tremorgio, an alpine lake in a rare glacial cirque in Ticino. Intense glacial erosion shaped the cirque. At the lake, the Sentiero geoturistico del Campolungo connects the alpine landscape with a theme that also explores the use of water: an educational station covers water use and hydropower. The trail includes an easier section at Lago Tremorgio and a more challenging section through alpine terrain to Capanna Leìt at an altitude of 2,250 metres.
The Rodi–Tremorgio cable car starts in Rodi near the AET Tremorgio power station and takes you to within a few metres of the lake and mountain hut. The lake and its surroundings are therefore key landmarks for a stay focused on alpine landscape and geology.
Dazio Grande: customs house and transit history
Dazio Grande is a customs house dating from the mid-16th century. It was in continuous operation from 1561 to 1882; it also served as a horse-changing and rest stop, as well as an inn for travellers. Today, Dazio Grande is used as a museum, restaurant, hotel and event venue. Check in advance which services are available on your travel dates.
The museum’s permanent exhibition is devoted to the Via delle Genti and the development of trade across the Gotthard—from the old mule track to AlpTransit. The Circuito del Piottino presents the history of customs and transport from antiquity to the present day. While the exhibition traces Gotthard traffic through to the era of AlpTransit, the historical scope of the Circuito reaches back to antiquity.
The Oratory of the Sacred Heart in Rodi-Fiesso also adds to the area’s cultural history: built in 1909, it contains frescoes depicting the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the Trinity.
Routes around Piottino and Rodi-Fiesso
The Percorso del Monte Piottino is six kilometres long; it takes about three hours to walk and has a maximum elevation difference of 300 metres. The trail connects the Bedrina nature reserve and the forest above the Piottino Gorge with Dazio Grande. Its 15 information and observation stations offer regular insights into the surrounding area; the route is suitable for adults and children.
The Percorso del Monte Piottino starts at Dazio Grande in Rodi-Fiesso. For a shorter walk, the themed Gola del Piottino trail is nearby: over 1.2 kilometres and about 30 minutes, it introduces the history of this historic transit route through information boards and fun activities. Trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out.
Behind Rodi-Fiesso is also the Percorso Vita Zurich, a 2.5-kilometre forest trail with an elevation difference of 120 metres and a moderate level of difficulty. For a longer stage, take the ViaGottardo from Airolo to Rodi: it is 14 kilometres long, takes about three hours and 45 minutes, and ends in Rodi. Check for current detours or closures before setting out on this stage.
Getting there and choosing where to stay
The start of the Percorso del Monte Piottino is accessible by public transport: take the train to Faido or Airolo, then continue by PostBus. Check the timetable before travelling.
For the broader travel overview: Prato.
