The best cycling routes around Lai da Sontga Maria
4.3
(7)
138
riders
Touring cycling around Lai da Sontga Maria is centered on an artificial lake at 1,908 meters elevation, surrounded by high alpine peaks such as Scopi (3,190 m) and Piz Gannaretsch (3,040 m). The region features the Santa Maria arch dam and the Lukmanier Pass road along its eastern shore, offering varied terrain from paved surfaces to unpaved segments. This high-altitude environment provides challenging routes with significant elevation gains.
Best touring cycling routes around Lai da Sontga Maria
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.0
(3)
50
riders
36.7km
03:05
1,270m
1,270m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
13.1km
01:10
520m
520m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
8
riders
11.2km
01:16
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
56
riders
41.5km
03:22
1,270m
1,280m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
You can swim in the pool at the foot of the waterfalls. The water was still quite cold at the end of May, it must be wonderful in midsummer. Between the waterfall and the river Ticino there is a nice park area with several grills, ideal for lingering.
0
0
Leave your bike at the Dazio Grande and with a short detour in a few minutes you will be at the Gole del Piottino, an incredible canyon with walls tens of meters high
0
0
A remote village where time has stood still
0
0
Lukmanier Pass When the Disentis monastery was founded around 720, the Lukmanier Pass, which could be crossed without great difficulty and was also considerably lower than the other passes in the Alps, became very important. During the Staufer period, it was considered the most important north-south connection to Italy. However, it quickly lost this role to the Gotthard and Splügen passes. In 1374, the Disentis monastery built the "Hospezi S. Maria" with a chapel on the top of the pass. Both had to make way for the construction of the reservoir in 1964. The new hospice at the current location was inaugurated on August 1, 1965 and the chapel in 1967. The Lukmanier Pass played an important role in the choice of the route of an Alpine railway at times, because the planners assumed that it would be possible to build it without an expensive summit tunnel. In 1869, however, the decision was made in favor of the Gotthard railway. Between 1872 and 1877, a modern road was built over the Lukmanier. With the construction of the "Lai da Sontga Maria" reservoir in the 1960s, the road on the Graubünden side had to be relocated to a gallery. The importance of a supra-regional transport axis ended with the opening of the motorway tunnel through the Gotthard. Tourism in the Surselva began to suffer greatly as a result, especially as the pass was closed during the winter from 1980 onwards. On the initiative of the municipality of Disentis and the Surselva mountain railways in particular, the "Pro Lucmagn" association was founded, which has been responsible for ensuring that the Lukmanier pass remains open for as long as possible in winter since 2005. The canton, district, municipalities and tourism in both Graubünden and Ticino provide the finances. The five-year trial phase was positive. This project has been secured for the long term since 2011. Clearly to the benefit of tourism in the Surselva as well as in the Blenio Valley. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://www.alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/lukmanierpass/
12
2
Chapel of the Assumption of Mary, Lukmanier Pass S. Maria» with a chapel. Both had to make way for the construction of the reservoir in 1964. The new hospice at the current location was inaugurated on August 1, 1965 and the chapel in 1967. Lukmanier Pass, 7185 Platta Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://www.alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/lukmanierpass/
11
0
Chapel of the Assumption of Mary, Lukmanier Pass Lukmanier - Catholic Chapel of the Assumption of Mary "The first buildings of the hospice date from 1374. The famous restorer of the Disentis monastery, Abbot Christian von Castelberg, saved the hospice from decay in 1577. He had the simple mountain chapel decorated with magnificent frescoes. The frescoes in the choir of the current chapel, which depict Saints Martin and Placidus, Sigisbert and Benedict, and the coats of arms above show the connection to the Disentis monastery. When the reservoir was built, the old chapel had to be moved. In addition to building the reservoir, the NOK was commissioned to build the chapel at the new hospice and to preserve the frescoes. Under the direction of chief architect Josef Rieser from Baden, the NOK was able to build a small sacred building on the Lukmanier Pass, which is a credit to the builders. On October 15th In 1967, Abbot Viktor Schönbächler consecrated the new chapel. Anyone who ever drives over the Lukmanier Pass will not be able to miss the magnificent chapel. It fits in very well with the angular surroundings of the mountains. A visit is worthwhile from an architectural point of view alone. The chapel should give as many people as possible moments of peace and inner reflection, so that they can return to the lowlands of everyday life spiritually strengthened, with new courage and trust in God." Text / Source: Website of the hospice on the Lukmanier Pass / kirchen-online.org https://kirchen-online.org/kirchen--kapellen-in-graubuenden-und-umgebung/lukmanier---maria-himmelfahrt.php
11
0
Percorso Blenio–Lucomagno No. 36 Through the sun-drenched Valle di Blenio, steeply up to the Passo del Lucomagno, one of the most beautiful pass landscapes in Switzerland. Along the reservoir into the Val Medel, alpine roses in the valley and roaring water in the Hell's Gorge, the destination is Disentis. The starting point is Biasca, the center of the Ambrosian valleys of Leventina, Riviera and Blenio. Vast chestnut forests spread out on the lower slopes of the Brenno valley; the chestnuts, once the "poor man's fruit", are now often left lying around. Emperor Barbarossa once stayed at the Seravalle castle in front of Ludiano; ruins still bear witness to its former power. In the sun-drenched valley, agriculture is practiced on the terraces. High up, alone on an alpine meadow, stands one of the most impressive Romanesque buildings in Ticino, the church of San Carlo di Negrentino with its beautiful frescoes. Butterflies swing up the mountain with us, the scenery changes, in the quiet Alpine valley of Santa Maria the firs smell of resin, the tinkling of cows accompanies you to the Passo del Lucomagno. After the Lukmanier we go along the reservoir into the Val Medel, where fragrant alpine roses, tanned wooden houses and roaring water in the Höllenschlucht accompany us to Disentis. Text / Source: schweizmobil.ch https://schweizmobil.ch/de/veloland/route-36
11
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lai da Sontga Maria?
There are 5 touring cycling routes documented on komoot for the Lai da Sontga Maria region. These routes are primarily designed for experienced cyclists due to their challenging nature.
What is the typical difficulty level for touring cycling routes in this area?
The touring cycling routes around Lai da Sontga Maria are generally considered difficult. They feature significant elevation gains and descents, often exceeding 1,000 meters, and traverse mountainous terrain. For example, the Piumogna Waterfall – Osco loop from Faido involves over 1,200 meters of ascent.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Lai da Sontga Maria?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging Lukmanier Pass summit – Lukmanier Pass loop from Posteggio Centro Sci Nordico Campra and the Carì Mountain Village – Scenic viewpoint loop from Faido.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the cycling routes?
The region is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You'll cycle past the impressive Santa Maria arch dam, which holds back the artificial Lai da Sontga Maria. The routes also offer views of majestic peaks like Scopi and Piz Gannaretsch. The Lukmanier Pass itself is a significant historical crossing, and you might encounter sections near the Rein da Medel, a tributary of the Anterior Rhine. The Piumogna Waterfall – Osco loop from Faido also takes you past the Piumogna Waterfall.
Is touring cycling around Lai da Sontga Maria suitable for families or beginners?
Given that all listed touring cycling routes are rated as difficult with substantial elevation changes, they are generally not recommended for families with young children or beginner cyclists. The terrain often includes challenging climbs and descents, requiring good fitness and cycling experience.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in this high-altitude region?
Due to its high-altitude location (Lai da Sontga Maria is at 1,908 meters above sea level), the best time for touring cycling is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This avoids snow and ice on the passes and ensures more favorable weather conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any dog-friendly touring cycling routes in the area?
While the routes themselves don't have specific restrictions against dogs, the challenging nature and high-altitude environment mean you should consider your dog's fitness and ability to handle long, strenuous rides. Some routes may include unpaved sections. Always ensure your dog is well-hydrated and protected from the elements.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Lai da Sontga Maria?
Many routes start from villages or specific points where parking might be available. For instance, the Lukmanier Pass summit – Lukmanier Pass loop starts from Posteggio Centro Sci Nordico Campra, which suggests parking facilities. When planning your tour, check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The terrain around Lai da Sontga Maria is diverse. While many sections are well-paved and easy to ride, some routes may include unpaved segments, adding to the adventure. Expect significant ascents and descents as you navigate the alpine landscape and high mountain passes.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Lai da Sontga Maria?
The touring cycling routes in Lai da Sontga Maria are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the breathtaking alpine scenery, the challenge of the high mountain passes, and the unique experience of cycling around the reservoir.
Are there any options for public transport to access the cycling routes?
The Lukmanier Pass road, which runs along the eastern shore of Lai da Sontga Maria, is a key access point. Public transport options, such as post buses, typically operate along major pass roads during the warmer months. It's advisable to check current schedules and bike transport policies with local public transport providers like PostBus Switzerland for specific routes and timings.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for multi-day trips?
While the listed routes are primarily day trips, some, like the Piottino Gorge – Osco loop from Quinto (41.5 km with over 1,200m elevation gain), offer a substantial challenge. For multi-day trips, you could link several routes or explore longer regional touring routes that incorporate the Lukmanier Pass area, potentially extending into the canton of Ticino to the south.
Most popular routes around Lai da Sontga Maria
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
