4.0
(1)
42
riders
02:18
26.1km
960m
Cycling
This difficult 16.2-mile touring cycling route from Malvaglia to Dandrio offers challenging climbs and panoramic views of Val Malvaglia.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.05 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
13.0 km
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
18.6 km
Public Water Fountain
Public Water Fountain
26.1 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.4 km
2.61 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
19.0 km
7.06 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 28 May
29°C
16°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
You can typically find parking in Malvaglia, the starting point of the ascent. Look for designated parking areas within the village before beginning your ride.
Malvaglia is accessible by public transport, though connections might require some planning. Check local bus schedules for routes connecting to Malvaglia, especially from larger towns in the Ticino region.
The route primarily follows a mountain road that is mostly asphalted, making it suitable for touring bikes. However, be prepared for a stretch of dirt track after the initial hairpin bends. The ascent is challenging with significant climbs.
No, the Ascent from Malvaglia to Dandrio is classified as a "difficult cycling tour" and requires a very good level of fitness. Cyclists should be prepared for significant elevation gain, and some sections may even necessitate pushing the bike.
The best time to cycle this route is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the mountain roads are clear of snow and ice. Always check local weather conditions before you go.
As you ascend, you'll pass a reservoir and go through traditional villages like Madra and Dandrio Village. The route offers numerous hairpin bends with panoramic views of the surrounding Val Malvaglia and its pristine landscapes. You'll also get a great View of Malvaglia from above.
While there are no specific restrictions against dogs on the road, this is a challenging cycling route. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure it is accustomed to long, strenuous rides, perhaps in a trailer, and always keep it leashed and under control, especially near traffic or livestock.
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Ascent from Malvaglia to Dandrio. It follows public roads and paths.
The route passes through traditional villages like Madra and Dandrio, which may offer limited local amenities. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, as facilities might be sparse, especially outside peak season.
The route is approximately 26 kilometers long with significant elevation gain. For a touring cyclist, it typically takes around 2 hours and 18 minutes to complete the ascent, but this can vary greatly depending on fitness level and stops.
Yes, for those looking to ease the journey or explore further, a gondola lift operates from Malvaglia to Dagro. Dagro is a village further up the valley from Dandrio, and this option can offer flexibility for different fitness levels or preferences, allowing you to connect to the route higher up.
Yes, sections of this route intersect with other paths. You might encounter parts of the Loderio - Malvaglia Rongie, St.-Gotthard-vier-Pässe-Bike (Campra-Biasca) Tappa 5, and Valle di Blenio Bike trails along the way.
The Malvaglia Valley, which starts from the large municipality of the same name on the left bank of the Blenio Valley (at an altitude of 385 meters) and which reaches 2'107 meters of Alpe di Quarnei at the foot of the Adula massif (3'402 meters ), is a real natural landscape and architectural jewel. Precisely to safeguard these peculiarities, the entire Valley is included in the "Inventory of landscapes and natural monuments of national importance". Geographically, the Valley borders to the south with the Val Pontirone, to the east with the upper part of the Valle Calanca, to the north with the Val Soja and to the west with the Val Dongia.