4.7
(1165)
9,289
hikers
137
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Lake della Sella are set within the mountainous environment near the Gotthard Pass in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland. The landscape features the reservoir itself, created by a 36-meter high gravity dam, and offers alpine views. Trails often include accessible paths suitable for families, children, and dogs, ranging from easy walks to more moderate routes with elevation changes. The region is characterized by its natural and engineering marvels, providing diverse terrain for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: October 2, 2026
8
hikers
9.14km
03:33
500m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(4)
59
hikers
25.4km
11:37
1,590m
1,590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

5.0
(1)
3
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(37)
181
hikers
9.36km
02:45
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(20)
129
hikers
13.7km
04:53
620m
630m
Hike the challenging 8.5-mile From Lago to Lucendro Pass circular tour from San Gottardo Pass, featuring alpine views and Lago di Lucendro.
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The old hospice on the Gotthard Pass was converted and extended into a 3-star hotel between 2008 and 2010. Architects Miller & Maranta and civil engineers Conzett Bronzini Gartmann created, in close collaboration, a modern structure that appears to have always existed in this location. It integrates naturally into the spatial and historical context, and its simplicity is reflected in the architecture and the supporting structure.
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Cappella di San Gottardo - Chapel at the Gotthard Hospice The St. Gotthard Pass was first used as a pass starting in the 13th century, and the hospice, built at the behest of Milanese Archbishop Galdino (1171), also dates from this period. A chapel was built alongside the hospice on the site of a small church dating back to the 9th/10th century. It was rebuilt towards the end of the 18th century at the instigation of the Capuchins, who managed the hospice until 1799. Text / Source: Agenzia turistica ticinese SA https://www.ticino.ch/de/commons/details/Kapelle-beim-Gotthard-Hospiz/4741.html#:~:text=Der%20Sankt%20Gotthard%20wur de%20as%20Pass%C3%BCtransition%20first%20from,century%20,%20a%20chapel%20was%20built%20side%20of%20hospice%20.
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St. Gotthard Pass The Gotthard Pass divides waterways and connects various cultural and linguistic areas. Its significance as an "Alpine transversal" began at the beginning of the 13th century with the construction of the legendary Devil's Bridge in the Schöllenen Gorge. For many centuries, trade caravans (trading cattle and cheese for grain, wine, rice, and salt), mercenaries, messengers, and even entire armies crossed the pass. Between 1818 and 1836, the canton of Uri, with the help of other cantons, expanded the pass road, thus achieving its predominance among Swiss Alpine passes. The Gotthard Pass has significantly shaped the economy and culture of Central Switzerland for centuries. Until the opening of the Gotthard Railway in 1882, the Gotthard Pass was also used in winter. Dozens of roadmen and shovel workers were employed for this purpose. In 1922, the post bus replaced the stagecoach, and with the introduction of gasoline duties in 1923, the expansion of the pass roads began, continuing to this day. The old pass road on the south side, the Tremola between the top of the pass and Airolo, is still preserved and passable. This stretch of road recalls more tranquil journeys over the Gotthard that occurred not so long ago. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Gotthard Pass was "condensed" into a myth, a symbol of Switzerland's independence, unity, and identity. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/gotthardpass
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St. Gotthard Pass The Gotthard Pass divides waterways and connects various cultural and linguistic areas. Its significance as an "Alpine transversal" began at the beginning of the 13th century with the construction of the legendary Devil's Bridge in the Schöllenen Gorge. For many centuries, trade caravans (trading cattle and cheese for grain, wine, rice, and salt), mercenaries, messengers, and even entire armies crossed the pass. Between 1818 and 1836, the canton of Uri, with the help of other cantons, expanded the pass road, thus achieving its predominance among Swiss Alpine passes. The Gotthard Pass has significantly shaped the economy and culture of Central Switzerland for centuries. Until the opening of the Gotthard Railway in 1882, the Gotthard Pass was also used in winter. Dozens of roadmen and shovel workers were employed for this purpose. In 1922, the post bus replaced the stagecoach, and with the introduction of gasoline duties in 1923, the expansion of the pass roads began, continuing to this day. The old pass road on the south side, the Tremola between the top of the pass and Airolo, is still preserved and passable. This stretch of road recalls more tranquil journeys over the Gotthard that occurred not so long ago. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Gotthard Pass was "condensed" into a myth, a symbol of Switzerland's independence, unity, and identity. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/gotthardpass
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Gotthard Pass Crossing the Gotthard Pass is always an adventure. Restaurants, activities, and accommodations for every need: from groups to families with children, to the luxury offered by the Ospizio San Gottardo. Text / Source: Gastro San Gottardo SA, Airolo https://www.passosangottardo.ch/
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St. Gotthard Pass The Gotthard Pass divides waterways and connects various cultural and linguistic areas. Its significance as an "Alpine transversal" began at the beginning of the 13th century with the construction of the legendary Devil's Bridge in the Schöllenen Gorge. For many centuries, trade caravans (trading cattle and cheese for grain, wine, rice, and salt), mercenaries, messengers, and even entire armies crossed the pass. Between 1818 and 1836, the canton of Uri, with the help of other cantons, expanded the pass road, thus achieving its predominance among Swiss Alpine passes. The Gotthard Pass has significantly shaped the economy and culture of Central Switzerland for centuries. Until the opening of the Gotthard Railway in 1882, the Gotthard Pass was also used in winter. Dozens of roadmen and shovel workers were employed for this purpose. In 1922, the post bus replaced the stagecoach, and with the introduction of gasoline duties in 1923, the expansion of the pass roads began, continuing to this day. The old pass road on the south side, the Tremola between the top of the pass and Airolo, is still preserved and passable. This stretch of road recalls more tranquil journeys over the Gotthard that occurred not so long ago. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Gotthard Pass was "condensed" into a myth, a symbol of Switzerland's independence, unity, and identity. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/gotthardpass
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Gotthard Pass Crossing the Gotthard Pass is always an adventure. Restaurants, activities, and accommodations for every need: from groups to families with children, to the luxury offered by the Ospizio San Gottardo. Text / Source: Gastro San Gottardo SA, Airolo https://www.passosangottardo.ch/
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There are over 130 hiking trails in the Lake della Sella region, with 26 specifically categorized as easy, making them ideal for families. Many of these routes offer gentle terrain and stunning views suitable for all ages.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter the impressive Lake della Sella reservoir and its 36-meter high dam, picturesque mountainous scenery, and potentially beautiful waterfalls. The alpine environment provides a refreshing backdrop for your family adventure.
Yes, many of the trails are designed as loops, perfect for a family day out. For example, the Lake Sella from the Gotthard Pass – loop offers a moderate challenge with rewarding views, allowing you to experience the area without retracing your steps.
Absolutely! The trails around Lake della Sella are generally very welcoming to dogs. Many paths are easily accessible and suitable for your canine companions, allowing the whole family, including pets, to enjoy the beautiful alpine landscape together.
Beyond the natural beauty, the area near the historic Gotthard Pass offers cultural insights. You can explore points of interest like the Guex Monument and the Old Hospice of St. Gotthard, adding a historical dimension to your outdoor experience.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 960 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse hiking paths suitable for various fitness levels, the stunning views of the reservoir, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere.
Yes, the broader region provides opportunities to see other beautiful bodies of water. Nearby Lake Lucendro also offers hiking opportunities, with routes like the "View of the Lucendro Dam – Lake Lucendro loop" providing additional options for exploration and different scenic vistas.
For a moderate family hike with a summit view, consider the Lago di Sella – Piz Giübin Summit loop from Lago della Sella. This route offers a good balance of challenge and reward, leading you to Piz Giübin with fantastic panoramic views.
Yes, access to the Lake della Sella area is generally good. A small mountain road leads from the Ospizio to the dam wall, providing convenient access and often parking options near the starting points of many trails. It's always a good idea to check specific trailhead information for detailed parking availability.
The best time for family hiking around Lake della Sella is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. During this period, the trails are usually clear of snow, and the weather is more stable and pleasant for outdoor activities with children.
While many trails are suitable for children, dedicated stroller-friendly paths with paved or very smooth surfaces might be limited due to the alpine terrain. However, some of the easier, wider paths, especially closer to the dam or reservoir, might be manageable with robust all-terrain strollers. Always check the specific trail conditions before heading out.


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