Switzerland, a haven for cycling enthusiasts, offers boundless opportunities for those who find joy in the saddle. Across the country, meticulously plotted routes, tracks, and trails stretch for thousands of miles, meandering alongside majestic rivers like the Rhine and Rhône, winding through picturesque vineyards, and descending down rugged forested slopes.
While Switzerland’s natural landscapes provide ample terrain for cycling adventures, the country’s urban centers also beckon with their own charm. Cities boast an abundance of rivers, lakes, and mountains within easy reach, inviting cyclists to explore at a leisurely pace along designated routes. To enhance your urban cycling experience, consider BMC’s latest 257 urban bike range, renowned for its Swiss cycling heritage and versatility, perfectly suited for navigating city streets and conquering alpine terrain alike.
Route 1: UNESCO Tour, Bern
Ideal for: Exploring cultural gems in the capital city
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Distance: 37 miles
Start/End: Bern
Embark on a captivating journey through Bern, delving into its rich cultural heritage while immersing yourself in its scenic surroundings. Beginning at the heart of the city, this full-day cycling excursion seamlessly blends urban exploration with countryside vistas. Before pedaling away, take the opportunity to wander through Bern’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, where medieval arcades, a gothic minster, and the iconic Zytglogge clock tower await. Don’t miss the chance to linger in the city’s renowned rose garden, indulging in the fragrant ambiance.
As you venture beyond the city limits, the landscape gradually transitions into tranquil rural scenery. Navigate through verdant forests and expansive meadows, eventually reaching the picturesque castle-crowned town of Laupen for a well-deserved lunch break. Savor seasonal delicacies like minced veal and salmon provençale, soaking in the quaint charm of the surroundings.
Resume your journey, meandering past quaint villages and tracing the gentle curves of the Aare River until you reach the reed-fringed shores of Lake Wohlen. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the lake before embarking on the final leg of your route, winding back through the enchanting woodland trails to return to Bern.
Route 2: Rehbergerweg, Basel
Ideal for: Art and Design Enthusiasts
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles
Start/End: Basel
Immerse yourself in a captivating blend of art and scenic beauty along the Rehbergerweg, a three-mile trail that promises a feast for the senses. Beginning in Basel, this leisurely pedal journey leads you through lush vineyards and across borders, offering glimpses of both Switzerland and Germany.
Start your exploration at the Renzo Piano-designed Fondation Beyeler, home to a remarkable collection of modern art featuring original works by masters such as Miró and Lichtenstein. From there, meander through picturesque countryside until you reach the Vitra Design Museum in Weil am Rhein, envisioned by the renowned architect Frank Gehry. Inside, discover boundary-pushing exhibitions spotlighting architecture, industrial design, and interior design.
As you traverse the route, keep a lookout for the 24 captivating public art installations by German sculptor Tobias Rehberger. From whimsical birdcages to intricate cuckoo clocks, these installations add an extra layer of intrigue to your journey.
For those seeking a longer adventure, consider extending your ride along the 25-mile Kleiner Dreiland Radweg, a well-signposted route that traverses Switzerland, France, and Germany, offering a delightful blend of cultural immersion and scenic vistas along the Rhine.
Route 3: Mont Salève, Geneva
Ideal for: Breathtaking Alpine Panoramas
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.3 miles
Start/End: Geneva/Le Pas de l’Échelle
Experience the thrill of effortlessly transitioning from cityscape to Alpine splendor with the scenic route from Geneva to Mont Salève. Embark on a sightseeing adventure through Geneva’s historic center, immersing yourself in the city’s rich heritage as you pass landmarks like the Parc des Bastions and the monumental Reformation Wall. As you pedal through Parc Bertrand, revel in the tranquil beauty of rare trees and picturesque lakes framed by graceful willows.
Follow the designated cycle lanes along the Route de Florissant, seamlessly connecting urban and rural landscapes. Cross the Pont de Sierne, spanning the glacial waters of the Arve River, and behold captivating views of the charming hamlet of Sierne and its idyllic farmsteads. Continuing your journey, you’ll encounter the limestone cliffs of Petit-Salève, marking your entrance into France.
Upon reaching French soil, ascend to the summit of Mont Salève via a convenient cable car ride. Here, be greeted by awe-inspiring vistas that stretch across Geneva, its namesake lake, and the majestic Mont Blanc towering in the distance.
Route 4: Lugano Bike
Ideal for: Adventurous Mountain Bikers
Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 74.5 miles
Start/End: Lugano/Ponte Tresa
Nestled between the pristine lakeshores and scenic vistas of Lugano lies an exhilarating challenge tailor-made for mountain bike enthusiasts. Embark on a thrilling journey through diverse terrain, where cultural allure meets natural splendor, bridging the gap between Switzerland and Italy.
Begin your adventure in Lugano, indulging in a revitalizing morning coffee before tackling this epic mountain bike trail to Ponte Tresa. Spanning four stages, this formidable route demands perseverance, featuring a staggering ascent of 16,404 feet. With only a quarter of the trail paved and a significant portion comprising rugged single track, be prepared for an adrenaline-fueled escapade through untamed wilderness.
While the journey may test your mettle, the rewards are plentiful as you navigate rocky terrain, meandering through wildflower-strewn meadows and ancient forests. Ascend to towering peaks like Monte Brè, Monte Bar, and Monte Tamaro, where panoramic vistas unveil the glittering expanse of Lake Lugano and the majestic surrounding mountains, offering a breathtaking backdrop to your unforgettable adventure.
Route 5: Lavaux par les Corniches, Lausanne
Ideal for: Epicurean Enthusiasts
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Distance: 25 miles
Start/End: Lausanne
Indulge your palate on a gastronomic journey through the picturesque landscapes of Lausanne, where culinary delights await at every turn. Begin your day-long adventure in Lausanne, a city renowned for its breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, rich Olympic history, and vibrant artistic scene.
Set off eastward along the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva, where panoramic mountain vistas provide a stunning backdrop to your ride. Traverse charming villages like Lutry, with its pastel-painted facades, before venturing into the heart of the Lavaux region. Here, embark on the Lavaux Tour, a gentle loop that winds through the steeply terraced vineyards recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Pause to savor the flavors of the region as you sample citrusy Chasselas whites, fruity Pinot noirs, and rich Gamays at quaint caveaux (cellars) nestled in wine-growing villages such as Grandvaux, Riex, and Epesses.
As you descend back toward the lake, make a pit stop in Vevey, where you can unwind with a refreshing local craft beer at the retro-style Le Café Littéraire along the waterfront. Conclude your culinary odyssey by cycling back to Lausanne, where a memorable dinner awaits at the Michelin-starred La Table, promising a fitting finale to your epicurean escapade.