Melano to Gudo: 719m ascent, and an extra bit to Aldi

Saturday September 15, 2018, 39 miles (63 km) - Total so far: 6,190

miles (9,961 km)

I think the last week or so has tired me out! I just couldn't get going today. We did discover that Switzerland has public toilets (these are like hen's teeth in Italy), so that was very welcome!

The first part of the ride was pretty flat, and lovely around the headland. So many cyclists out on their Saturday rides. The rest of the ride was uphill, mostly quite gradual, but energy-sapping. And A Lot of gravel!!! The bit near Lugano is also extremely unscenic, with sections next to the motorway and lots of industrial estates. Then the climb gets steeper. It probably wasn't that bad, but I was suffering!! The descent is along the side of the main road - fine but we were glad we weren't coming up the other way. Great views of Lake Maggiore.

We had intended to ride to Bellinzona, but decided to check out a cheap campsite that I'd noticed on Google. We are glad we did. It's called La Serta, and is in the village of Gudo. I'd say it's the ideal campsite for cyclists (and similar) - in addition to the normal features of a campsite it has an undercover seating area, HOT PLATES for cooking and FRIDGES. The host is really friendly and loves to chat. It's very quiet (but it is mid-Sept) - he says he only really sees retirees (who have statics on site) and lots of people canyoning in summer. There IS a pool but it's empty - it's definitely not a holiday park - but if you're anything like us, that is a good thing!!!! And the absolute clincher - it's only 28.50 per night, compared with 40.50 at the previous place. Good spot for a much needed day off :)

Route (following Swiss route 3 / Eurovelo 5), with an extra bit to go to Aldi. Thank goodness Switzerland has Aldi and Lidl!!!
https://www.strava.com/activities/1843215536