On the road in Switzerland: Bellinzona is beautiful

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The three castles of Bellinzona

The Romans were aware that Bellinzona’s location on a north-south axis in a narrow valley with access to various Alpine passes was highly strategic. It was they who built a fort here in the first century. In the Middle Ages this was further expanded as a result of constant disputes with the Dukes of Milan. This shows how a powerful fortification was created, which has been very well preserved to this day and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000. This castle complex that characterizes Bellinzona’s cityscape includes Castel Grande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro, Bellinzona’s oldest and most powerful castle.

saturday market

On Saturdays, when Bellinzona’s historic center is packed with market stalls, visitors can be a part of this traditional Ticino event. Because Bellinzona market is an important meeting place for locals and you can feel how the heart of Bellinzona and its inhabitants beats a little faster on Sunday. The market is a reflection of what Ticino’s rich nature has to offer. Seasonal fruits and vegetables of the region, delicatessen products made according to old recipes and freshly baked products are offered. This includes homemade Ticino bread, which can be best enjoyed with a piece of mountain cheese and a good glass of red wine.

Masseria Ramello

The organic farm of the Feitknecht family is in Cadenazzo, in the middle of the Magadino plain, not far from Bellinzona. A few years ago, the first Ticino malthouse was established in the courtyard – the idea of ​​​​two childhood friends Manuel Bolliger and Adrian Feitknecht (beer). Secondly, as a qualified beer sommelier, Manuel Bolliger has a great deal of expert knowledge about beer, while he runs his family’s organic farm and supplies the perfect raw material with the organic malted barley he grows. This is how Masseria Ramello produces 100% organic malt for the production of high quality beer. Malthouse, on the other hand, offers tours, courses, tastings and beer menus. Also, various places, including gardens, can be booked for festive events.

Curzútt and Tibet Bridge

Anyone spending time in and around Bellinzona should definitely visit the historic town of Curzútt. At 612 meters above sea level you will find a piece of land that touches the soul and slows it down. When Curzútt was gradually abandoned by its former inhabitants, the Curzútt – San Barnárd Foundation took over and revitalized the village. Today, a youth hostel in Curzútt invites its guests to stay and dine. Upon arrival in Curzútt, a visit to the nearby Tibetan Suspension Bridge is a must. Thanks to him, the districts of Monte Carasso and Sementina were able to unite. In addition, nothing can stand in the way of circular walks in Ticino’s beautiful cultural landscape.

Villa dei Cedri

Visiting this villa is a special experience. The once privately owned building now houses an art museum with priceless artifacts. They are shown to visitors in two to three exhibitions a year, along with other art projects. In addition to the museum, the centuries-old park where the villa is located is an attraction in itself. Here, ancient cedar trees line the street leading to the main building. There is also an Italian-style flower garden and a vineyard that still produces Merlot today. And all this in the heart of Bellinzona. Because the park and museum, which was once built as a suburban villa, has now become part of the city and merged with the rest of Bellinzona.

Greina plateau

The wild plateau, located largely in Graubünden, is also an attractive destination from Bellinzona. After a good one hour journey by S-Bahn and bus, you will reach Campo Blenio. Known as a family-friendly ski area in the winter, the Greina Trail starts here in the summer. A challenging circular hike of about seven hours leads via Greina Pass to Capanna Scaletta, where it is well worth the detour to the majestic rock formation Greina Arch. The highest point of the hike has already been reached here. On the descent, another highlight awaits you, with the view from Motterasciohütte over the Lago di Luzzone reservoir. In summer, buses run from the reservoir to Campo Blenio.

Ticino Grotti and Co.

While visiting Bellinzona, you should not neglect the delicacies. The selection of typical osteria’s, cozy grottis and gourmet restaurants is too much for that. The menu traditionally features polenta, local cured meats and merlot. When the weather is nice, it is a good idea to book a table on the terrace of the Grotto San Michele, right next to Castel Grande. The views of the city of Bellinzona, the surrounding vineyards and the mystical castle walls are magnificent. If you’re not afraid of the 30-minute drive, you’ll find a gem in the Grotto Pescatori in Giornico. Located directly on the Ticino River, you can spend relaxing moments with your loved ones here, with a small menu of products from local producers.

Source : Blick