The best traffic-free bike rides around Lake Cama
4.8
(48)
781
riders
5
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Cama are characterized by challenging terrain with significant elevation gains. The region features a network of routes that traverse mountainous landscapes, offering views of valleys and natural features. These routes are designed for experienced touring cyclists seeking demanding ascents and descents. The area provides a focused experience for those looking to test their endurance on varied surfaces.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Cama
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is From Grona to Rossa with visit to Buseno, a 25.4 miles (40.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 5 minutes to complete. This route features over 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Santa Maria in Calanca via Route 26, a difficult 11.3 miles (18.1 km) path. This route offers a challenging ascent through the local landscape.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Lago di Buseno and Dam – Laura loop from Castaneda, a 16.9 miles (27.2 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lake Cama is defined by steep climbs, valley views, and challenging ascents. The network offers options primarily for experienced touring cyclists.
- The routes in Lake Cama are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Cama's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(5)
65
riders
40.9km
03:05
1,020m
1,020m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
18.1km
01:35
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
11
riders
21.5km
01:35
500m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
27.2km
02:08
740m
740m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
9
riders
18.2km
01:38
650m
650m
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
Popular around Lake Cama
Tips from the Community
Station, Grono - (1907-2013) History of the BM With the inauguration of the new San Bernardino motorway (1970), the small, narrow-gauge Mesolcina railway, with no direct connection to the nearby Gotthard railway, appeared obsolete. Starting in 1972—amidst lively protests from the Moesa population—passenger service was discontinued and replaced by P.T.T. buses. After the loss of three out of five electric locomotives due to serious accidents (1969) and the damage to the Soazza-Mesocco section in the 1978 flood, the length of the railway line was significantly reduced on the Castione-Cama stretch. The Rhaetian Railway (which had absorbed the BM between 1942 and 1943 during the severe economic crisis) decided to store its rolling stock in a disused factory in the Grono industrial area, which became a large depot and workshop for overhauling the bogies. This space will be the starting point for the redevelopment of what remains of the Bellinzona-Mesocco electric railway for tourism. In 1985, the Friends of the Mesolcinese Railway Association (AAFM) was founded, and in the summer of 1995 the first Sunday passenger service was inaugurated, a service that continued every summer for the next 18 years. In 2000, the Association transformed into the Tourist Railway Operations Company (SEFT) and recovered an original BM electric locomotive (purchased by the Gotthard Railway Club in 1980), built in Prague in 1909 before being sold to France. In 2003, the Rhaetian Railway also discontinued its freight service, and SEFT was granted another decade of passenger transport. On October 27, 2013, the last tourist run between Castione and Cama took place, definitively ending railway operations in Mesolcina. Since 2020, a Swiss electric locomotive with first and second class seats (1933) and a Belgian freight car (1889) used by the BM have been on public display in the Al Pascolet industrial area on the site of Fratelli Censi SA Tecnica Ferroviaria, not far from the former SEFT depot-workshop. Text / Source: visit-moesano.ch https://www.visit-moesano.ch/sites/moesano/files/2024-04/Storia%20BM.pdf
15
0
Golena Pascolet, Grono The Pascolet area is now a forest reserve, a lowland hunting ground, and a fish sanctuary, covering an area of 25 hectares. This recreational and cultural area is suitable for families with children who want to learn important didactics, as well as for nature lovers. Plants, amphibians, fish, and birds can be found there. To reach it, hike along green country roads and, after crossing the bridge over the stream from the Val Leggia, circle the mountain slope at the edge of the forest. Text / Source: Graubünden Holidays, Alexanderstrasse 24, Chur https://www.graubuenden.ch/de/ausflugsziele/golena-pascolet
15
0
Torre di Santa Maria The medieval residential tower was built in the 13th/14th century by the Counts of Sax. Overlooking the valley floor of the Misox, it was part of a territorial control system. The pentagonal tower is inspired by architectural models from central France. Text / Source: Raetia Association, grisun & romanisch https://www.visit-moesano.ch/de/chiesa-parrocchiale-santa-maria-assunta
14
0
Chiesa San Rocco e San Sebastiano, Grono The church of San Rocco and San Sebastiano, decorated with colourful frescoes, is located in a small square in the centre of Grono. The church, originally dedicated to Saint Bernardine, was a modest chapel probably built at the beginning of the 16th century. In 1660 it was restored and enlarged and dedicated to Saint Bernardine of Siena and Saint Charles Borromeo. Later, in 1690, the sacristy was added and at the beginning of the 19th century the bell tower was built. The nave is characterised by a barrel vault, while the chancel has a cross vault decorated with beautiful baroque stuccoes dating from 1715. The main façade of the church is characterized by colorful frescoes depicting Our Lady of Milk and the patron saints of the church. In 1660 it was restored and enlarged and dedicated to Saint Bernardine of Siena and Saint Charles Borromeo. Later, in 1690, the sacristy was added and at the beginning of the 19th century the bell tower was built. The nave is characterized by a barrel vault, while in the choir there is a cross vault decorated with beautiful baroque stuccoes dating from 1715. The main façade of the church is characterized by colorful frescoes depicting Our Lady of Milk and the patron saints of the church. Text / Source: Raetia Association, grisun & romanisch https://www.visit-moesano.ch/de/chiesa-san-rocco-san-sebastiano
14
0
The village of Santa Maria, with its parish church mentioned as early as 1219, was the religious and political capital of the Calanca Valley. The church's current appearance dates back to the early seventeenth century, a time when Capuchin monks settled in the adjacent hospice. The church of Santa Maria Assunta is a Romanesque religious building. Text / Source: Raetia Association, grisun & romanisch https://www.visit-moesano.ch/de/chiesa-parrocchiale-santa-maria-assunta
14
0
Torre di Santa Maria The medieval residential tower was built in the 13th/14th century by the Counts of Sax. Overlooking the valley floor of the Misox, it was part of a territorial control system. The pentagonal tower is inspired by architectural models from central France. Text / Source: Raetia Association, grisun & romanisch https://www.visit-moesano.ch/de/chiesa-parrocchiale-santa-maria-assunta
14
0
Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Assunta, Santa Maria The church stands on a striking terrace to the east of the village, surrounded by the shade of a centuries-old linden tree, the high medieval tower, the Capuchin monastery and the ossuary. The monumental building complex has attracted attention since times gone by; the church and tower stand on a hill above the village center and are visible from afar to travelers on the San Bernardino route. Church The village of Santa Maria, with its parish church mentioned as early as 1219, was the religious and political capital of the Calanca Valley. The church's current appearance dates back to the early seventeenth century, a time when Capuchin monks settled in the adjacent hospice. The church of Santa Maria Assunta is a Romanesque religious building. Text / Source: Raetia Association, grisun & romanisch https://www.visit-moesano.ch/de/chiesa-parrocchiale-santa-maria-assunta
14
0
Municipality of Castaneda GR Castaneda is located on a terrace in the southern Calanca valley, 500 meters above the confluence of the Calancasca and the Moësa. Of the total municipal area of 394 hectares, 302 hectares are covered by forest and woodland. A further 61 hectares are unproductive areas, mostly mountains. Only 15 hectares are agricultural land and 16 hectares are residential areas. Text / Source: Raetia Association, grisun & romanisch https://www.grisun.ch/region/moesa/gemeinden/castaneda
14
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in the Lake Cama region?
There are 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Lake Cama region. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.
Are there any easy no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families around Lake Cama?
The routes featured in this guide are generally classified as difficult due to significant elevation gains and varied terrain, making them more suitable for experienced touring cyclists. For families or beginners, we recommend thoroughly reviewing the route profiles, especially the elevation and distance, before setting out. While the region offers beautiful scenery, the specific no-traffic routes listed here present a challenge.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the Lake Cama region?
The best time for touring cycling in the Lake Cama region is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and mountain passes are clear of snow. Always check local weather conditions before your ride, especially for routes with significant elevation like On the heights of Val Arbedo − loop tour.
Are there any loop touring cycling routes in the Lake Cama area?
Yes, several routes in the Lake Cama region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Notable loop options include the challenging Lago di Buseno and Dam – Laura loop from Castaneda and the Stone Bridge of Val Calanca – Church of Castaneda loop from Grono.
What kind of landscapes and attractions can I expect to see along these no-traffic routes?
The no-traffic routes in the Lake Cama region traverse diverse landscapes, including picturesque valleys, rolling hills, and mountainous terrain. You'll encounter charming villages like Grono, Rossa, and Castaneda, and potentially scenic features such as the Lago di Buseno and its dam on the Lago di Buseno and Dam – Laura loop from Castaneda. The region is characterized by its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in Lake Cama?
The Lake Cama region's touring cycling routes are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 36 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, the serene, traffic-free environment, and the stunning alpine scenery encountered on routes like From Grona to Rossa with visit to Buseno.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these routes?
While specific wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, the natural and often secluded environments of these no-traffic routes, particularly through forested areas and valleys, offer good opportunities for wildlife observation. Keep an eye out for local birds and other small animals, especially during quieter times of the day.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the no-traffic touring routes?
The routes pass through or near small villages such as Grono, Rossa, Buseno, and Castaneda. These villages often have local eateries, cafes, or small shops where you can find refreshments. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes like On the heights of Val Arbedo − loop tour, as services might be limited in more remote sections.
What are the typical weather conditions for touring cycling in the Lake Cama region?
Weather in the Lake Cama region can be variable, especially in mountainous terrain. Summers are generally warm and sunny, but thunderstorms can occur. Spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage but can also bring rain. Winters are cold with snow at higher elevations, making many routes impassable. Always check the forecast immediately before your ride and be prepared for changing conditions, particularly on routes with significant elevation changes like Santa Maria in Calanca via Route 26.
How long does it typically take to complete a no-traffic touring cycling route in this region?
Completion times vary significantly based on the route's distance, elevation gain, and your personal fitness level. For example, the Stone Bridge of Val Calanca – Church of Castaneda loop from Grono, at 18.2 km with 648m elevation, typically takes around 1 hour 37 minutes. Longer routes, such as On the heights of Val Arbedo − loop tour (41.1 km with 1735m elevation), can take over 3 hours 55 minutes of active cycling time. Always factor in breaks and sightseeing when planning your day.
Most popular routes around Lake Cama
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
