SearchCycling to Rome: Day 10 (Andermatt to Luino)
Monday 19 June 2023
Alex writes: The first task today was to finish the climb over the Gotthardpass. Once again it was superb cycling weather before the heat of the day built, and the Alpine scenery was preternaturally beautiful.
The grade was a fairly steady 7/8%, the roads very quiet, and the surface excellent – until, that is, we neared the summit and the cobbles started. These lent some extra spice to proceedings.
After coffees at the top it was time for the descent, which started with several kilometres of cobbled surface. If nothing else this was a good test for the bikes being properly screwed together.
The downhill extended effectively for 70 km, taking us down to Bellinzona. From there we made our way to the east side of Lake Maggiore and into Italy! Our lodgings this evening command magnificent views of the Lake.
Word of the day: sett
>>> Next: Day 11 to Pavia