What if you set off on your bike along the Rhône route in Switzerland to discover the hidden treasures of the upper valley? From the source of the Rhône in the Valais to Geneva, this magnificent route offers spectacular scenery: verdant vineyards, medieval castles, the confluence of Alpine rivers and the shores of Lake Geneva.
Cycling the 350 kilometres of the Rhône Route is a unique experience that will delight nature lovers and history buffs alike. Ready for an extraordinary journey? Let’s go !
Presentation of the Rhône cycling route in Switzerland
The Rhône Route by bike is an exciting route between Geneva on the shores of Lake Geneva, the sources of the Rhône in the Valais and the town ofAndermatt in the canton of Uri after the Furka Pass.
Approximately 350 kilometres long, with 8 suggested stages, the route passes through one of Switzerland’s most beautiful regions, dotted with fascinating mountains, picturesque villages and vineyards stretching along the banks of the Rhône Valley.
As well as the spectacular scenery, this journey also offers cyclists the chance to discover Switzerland’s rich culture, history and gastronomy through the 4 cantons it crosses.
Route description
The route starts in Geneva to the west, Gletsch or Andermatt to the east, depending on your preference, where cyclists can hop on their bikes and set off on a more or less winding route, depending on the stage, between the sources of the Rhône and Lake Geneva.
Throughout the journey, cyclists will be able to admire magnificent and spectacular panoramas such as the Geneva Jet d’Eau, the castles and terraced vineyards of the Valais and the Alpine glaciers.
Well-maintained cycle paths also allow cyclists to enjoy lush green forests and plains, with plenty of stops in both town and country.
Distance and time
The total distance is 350 kilometres, with 3,700 metres of ascent* and 4,700 metres of descent, if you start from Andermatt.
If you start or stop in Gletsch, the difference in altitude will be much less, as you will avoid the famous Furka Pass, which is not only beautiful but also interesting for its scenery.
The time needed to complete this itinerary varies according to the number of kilometres each person wants to cover each day.
With an average of 40 kilometres per day, you should allow 8 to 10 days for the entire cycling trip, depending on the breaks you take along the way.
Difficulty and level of physical preparation
A cycling trip that’ s accessible to everyone, this tour is perfect for anyone who wants to discover Switzerland’s natural beauty without getting too tired, if you limit yourself to the Rhône Valley for one or more stages.
However, this route is of medium to high level if you include the Furka pass, depending on whether your bike is electrically assisted or not. It is best suited to experienced cyclists, as this section between Gletsch and Andermatt is quite difficult, with a significant gradient and one of the steepest slopes above the Rhone glacier.
To get the most out of this adventure via the Furka, it’s advisable to be in good physical shape and well prepared before setting off, especially in terms of equipment to cope with the variations in altitude.
The key stages of the Rhône cycle route in Switzerland
From the French border to the sources of the Rhône, zoom in on the main stages of the Helvetian Rhône route.
Lake Geneva
There are many important cultural sites on the shores of Lake Geneva on the way to Geneva. Among the places of interest are the Château de Chillon, situated on an island in this majestic lake, and the Château Prangins, high above the calm waters of the lake, both of which offer visitors a romantic atmosphere.
Lausanne
The journey can continue to Lausanne, located on the shores of Lake Geneva.
The city offers splendid views over the lake and is renowned for its beautiful heritage and historic attractions such as the Cathedral, the Olympic Museum and the Town Hall.
Chillon Castle
Situated on Lake Geneva, the Château de Chillon houses a formidable collection of ancient armour and colourful tapestries dating back to the Middle Ages. The castle is certainly worth a visit, offering visitors a magical, historic atmosphere that is only enhanced by the breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters along the shores.
Rhône Valley
After Lake Geneva, the Rhône valley takes shape again, teeming with spectacular scenery on its tributary slopes. Cyclists on this route can admire wooded hills, lush orchards and picturesque villages dotted along the enchanting banks. Well-tended vineyards and agricultural terraces also contribute to the peaceful, serene beauty of this region of the Valais.
Valais
Known for its magnificent Alpine scenery, the Valais offers a variety of activities to suit all types of tourist, including relaxing spas, a multitude of typical restaurants and several shady cycling routes to take full advantage of the region’s natural beauty.
The Valais also offers climbing sites with rock walls for all levels, endless hiking and trekking and a landscape rich in primary forests covered in fragrant fir trees and other species.
Andermatt, Gletsch
Andermatt is either the starting point or the end of the journey; this village in the Swiss Alps and canton of Uri is also a winter sports resort in the Urseren valley. It lies at the crossroads of the road leading to the Gotthard Pass and, of course, the Furka Pass, which can also be crossed by train via the piggyback tunnel.
From Andermatt and over the pass, it’s a great plunge into the Rhone Valley with a panoramic view of the glacier, the source of the mythical river.
The route can also be started from the village of Gletsch in the municipality of Obergoms, thus avoiding the tricky Furka Pass for amateur cyclists.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Rhône route
Before setting off, you should be aware of the difficulties of this cycle route and avoid any surprises.
Benefits
The Rhone Route cycling trip in Switzerland is an incredible route that allows cyclists to explore the beauty of Switzerland’s mountains, lakes and towns.
The cycle paths are well laid out so that travellers can enjoy their journey in complete safety. The Alpine landscape gives cyclists the opportunity to discover breathtaking places, as well as a variety of interesting stories and cultural and natural attractions such as Château Chillon or the Rhône glacier.
Disadvantages
Despite all the positive wonders associated with this tour, there are a few minor drawbacks.
Some passages can be quite difficult, particularly the Col de la Furka, requiring adequate physical preparation and good technical skills.
The temperature can also vary considerably between day and night or according to altitude; this can cause significant climatic variations along the way, requiring appropriate protective clothing.
Off to the Rhône!
The Rhône Route by bike in Switzerland is an unforgettable experience that satisfies both nature lovers and cycling adventure enthusiasts. This route offers a splendid and enchanting panorama of some of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, such as the Alpine peaks, the Rhône glacier, Lake Geneva and Valais.
In a peaceful and safe environment, this tour offers cyclists a unique combination of natural beauty, remarkable archaeological sites and important cultural attractions.
And to finish with a link, the Rhône route can be continued or approached via the Via Rhôna, continuing to or from the Mediterranean.
Map of the Rhône route
Guide: Cycling in Switzerland
Looking for a cycling guide to Switzerland, including a map?
Here it is, to order in your favourite bookshop or online:
