Considering a cycling holiday in Switzerland? Wondering about cycling the Swiss Alps?
In that case, you probably already have an idea that Switzerland is an amazing place to ride a bike. And you’re right! It’s home to pristine Alpine vistas, ambitiously engineered climbs, pristine lakes, pretty, peaceful villages, and unforgettable moments in every ride.
In this article we speak to Sophie Baker from Marmot Tours. Marmot are well-known in UK road cycling circles; they’ve been running mountain-focused cycling tours since 2004 and cycling holidays in Switzerland since 2024. It was therefore a pleasure to speak with Sophie and hear her thoughts on the reasons guests love cycling in the Swiss Alps.
In this article Sophie also shares insights on the most popular cycling climbs, the route options on their Swiss Alps tour and tons of tips for planning a cycling holiday in the Swiss Alps.
So let’s get started!
Where are the Swiss Alps?
The Swiss Alps are one of the world’s great mountain ranges. They’re located in the southern part of Switzerland and cover around 60% of the country’s total land area, making Switzerland one of the most mountainous countries in Europe.
The Swiss Alps stretch from Switzerland’s western border with France to the eastern border with Austria and Liechtenstein. To the south of the Swiss Alps you find the border with Italy. The highest peaks in the Swiss Alps, such as the Matterhorn and Jungfrau, are located near the borders with Italy and France.
The south-central part of Switzerland, not far from the Italian border, is the part of the Swiss Alps cyclists focus on for the beautiful climbs and routes we talk about in this article. The closest international airport is Milan Malpensa Airport in Italy, though of course it’s also possible to fly to Geneva or Zurich.

Why choose the Swiss Alps for an Alpine cycling holiday?
On a Swiss Alps cycling trip you’ll find superb roads, spectacular, unspoiled scenery, and challenging climbs that make it a true paradise for those that love the mountains. The region boasts 17 mountain passes exceeding 2,000m in altitude, providing cyclists with views of the snowy peaks and alpine landscapes.
The Swiss Alps are also home to some of the most picturesque and quintessential villages you’ll find anywhere in the world. And what better way to enjoy them than by bike. Tucked between towering snow-capped mountains, quiet hamlets offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life villages; think neatly stacked woodpiles, cobblestone streets and centuries-old wooden chalets, their ornate facades adorned with colourful window boxes.
Another of the delights of cycling in Switzerland is Swiss cycling culture. In a 2018 referendum, 73.6% of Swiss voters approved a proposal to give the government more responsibility in developing cycling paths nationwide (more details here). As a result, the country boasts well-developed infrastructure, including signed routes, quiet roads, and bike-friendly accommodation. The country’s respect for cyclists and the generally high level of driver awareness all make cycling in the Swiss Alps a pleasurable experience.
Swiss Alps versus French Alps?
Cycling in both the Swiss and French Alps is spectacular. The French Alps are perhaps the more obvious starting point for cyclists, thanks to iconic races such as the Tour de France. After all, there’s something compelling about riding the classic climbs made famous by the world’s most famous cycling race – and we run lots of very popular tours in the French Alps!
So a cycling holiday in the Swiss Alps is unlikely to be your first cycling trip to the mountains; rather it’s somewhere you come for cycling climbs that are a little less known and more tranquil than other parts of Europe.
Switzerland is a quiet country with serious scenery, it’s somewhere that does quiet grandeur rather well. Here, jagged peaks soaring above peaceful, lush green valleys and rolling meadows filled with wildflowers give way to towering rock faces and glaciers.
France is a little busier. In 2023, France welcomed approximately 100 million international tourists, making it the most visited country in the world (source). In contrast, Switzerland received around 20.8 million international tourists during the same year (source).
Sponsor Message
Looking for a Swiss Alps cycling tour?
Here at Marmot Tours, we love the Swiss Alps and we'd love for you to experience them on one of our carefully crafted, guided cycling holidays.
Get in touch via our website, and let's discuss!
6 of the best climbs in the Swiss Alps
So you’ve decided to spend your cycling holiday in Switzerland. Which are the key climbs you should ride?
Below are the climbs that are our favourites.
This map shows a marker for each of the climbs mentioned below so that you can easily locate it (hover on the pin and the climb name will appear):
Furkapass
The Furka Pass, at an elevation of 2,429 meters, is one of the most iconic and challenging routes through the Swiss Alps.
As you traverse the Furka Pass, you are treated to a panoramic display of Switzerland’s natural grandeur. The road winds its way through a series of dramatic switchbacks, offering vistas of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and glaciers.
The Furka Pass has a rich history, having been constructed in 1867 for strategic military purposes. It has also gained fame as a filming location, with the iconic car chase scene from the James Bond movie “Goldfinger” being shot on its winding roads.
For cyclists, the Furka Pass is a true test of endurance and skill. The climb is long and arduous, with an average gradient of 6.5% over a distance of 36 kilometers. However, the reward is the opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes and the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering such a challenging ascent.
View from James Thompson, Founder and Director of Marmot Tours: “We climb the Furkapass on Day 4 of our tour; it’s one of the most spectacular mountain passes in the world and a marvel of Swiss ingenuity. The now closed Hotel Belvédère sits beneath the retreating Rhône glacier and was the inspiration for Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel. You won’t want to miss a photo opportunity on the iconic hairpin!”
Gotthard Pass
The Gotthard Pass (also known as the Sankt Gotthardpass and Passo del San Gottardo) is a mountain pass that sits at 2,106 metres above sea level. It connects the cantons of Uri in northern Switzerland and Ticino in southern Switzerland, providing an important north-south route through the Alps. The Gotthard Pass has been an important transportation route since the Middle Ages, but most traffic now goes on the new road and tunnel through the mountain.
The Gotthard Pass is renowned for its dramatic scenery, with steep, winding roads, hairpin turns, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The southern approach from Airolo, in particular, is famous for its 24 hairpin turns along the historic cobblestone “Tremola” road. The Tremola road was surfaced with cobbles in the 1830s and the last five kilometres to the top of the climb are still maintained.
Fortunately, it’s not cobbles for the descent and smooth asphalt takes you back into the valley.
View from James Thompson, Founder and Director of Marmot Tours: “We conquer the Gotthard Pass on the last day of our tour, day 5. It’s the second climb of the day – and it’s a beauty! Road cycling really does not get better than this.”
Sustenpass
The route begins in the village of Wassen, where you’ll navigate through a series of small tunnels and tight bends before reaching the long Sustenstrasse gallery. This section offers stunning views of the Meienreuss river valley as the road winds its way up the mountainside.
As you climb higher, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with the characteristic peaks of the Fünffingerstock coming into view. The final push to the pass summit features a few more hairpin turns and a short tunnel before you reach the Sustenpass Hospiz at the top.
The descent down the other side towards Innertkirchen includes fast, sweeping turns and beautiful vistas of the Gadmen Valley and Steinen Glacier. Just be sure to bring lights for the tunnels on the way down.
View from James Thompson, Founder and Director of Marmot Tours: “This is the second climb of day 2 if you choose the Classic route. The Sustenpass has everything you could possibly want, and it really showcases the beauty of the Swiss mountains. The views of the Sustenhorn and its glacier are genuinely breathtaking.”
Nufenenpass
The climb to the Nufenenpass (also known as Passo della Novena), starts with a flat section through the town of Ulrichen before quickly gaining elevation through a series of tight hairpin turns. As you climb, the scenery becomes more alpine, with green meadows and towering peaks surrounding you.
The gradient remains steady, averaging around 8-10% for much of the 13.7 km climb. There are a few steeper sections, including a kilometre that averages over 10% gradient. Towering peaks like the Finsteraarhorn and Lauteraarhorn loom overhead, while the Gries Glacier glistens in the distance.
As you near the top, the road winds through a final set of ten dramatic hairpin turns, taking you up to the Nufenen Pass at an elevation of 2,482 meters. At the summit, you’ll find a small mountain lake, a cafe, and a shop – the perfect spot to take a break and soak in the panoramic vistas.
View from James Thompson, Founder and Director of Marmot Tours: “The Nufenen Pass is a historic and stunningly well constructed road. As you climb, the glacier backdrop is truly dramatic, and the pass itself is the highest point on our Swiss Alps road cycling tour (and the second highest paved pass in Switzerland)! The 60 km descent from the top down to our Hotel in Biasca is truly epic – although we hope you’ll be tempted to turn off halfway down to climb the wonderful Gotthard Pass!”
Grosse Scheidegg
Cycling the Grosse Scheidegg from Meiringen is a truly impressive experience in the Swiss Alps. The 16.1km climb bridges 1,270 vertical meters with an average gradient of 7.9%.
As you climb, you’ll be surrounded by alpine scenery, with towering rock faces and glaciers on either side of the road. The climb features 13 hairpin turns, adding to the dramatic nature of the route.
The middle section offers a welcome respite, with a flatter stretch near Rosenlaui. But the final push to the summit is relentless, with gradients reaching up to 13.5% in the steepest sections.
Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Jungfrau massif, including the notorious north face of the Eiger. This is a truly special place, and well worth taking the time to soak in the scenery.
View from James Thompson, Founder and Director of Marmot Tours: “We tackle the Grosse Scheidegg on day 3 of our Swiss Alps tour; and it’s arguably some of the best riding in Europe. It is jaw droppingly beautiful with the north face of the Eiger towering above you.”
Grimselpass
Starting in Innertkirchen, the road winds its way through a stunning landscape of granite rocks, reservoir lakes, and hydroelectric power plants. As you climb higher, the views become more and more magnificent, with the Lauteraarhorn and other peaks towering above you.
The gradient is challenging, with sections reaching up to 8.5% and even 9% gradient, but the sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit at 2,165 meters is unparalleled. On the way, you pass through the “Crystal Village” of Guttannen, where, if you feel the need for a break, you can admire the impressive crystals in the Prospector’s Museum.
View from James Thompson, Founder and Director of Marmot Tours: “The Grimselpass is a highlight of Day 4 of our Swiss Alps tour. The road to the Grimselpass makes for a beautiful climb with ever changing gradients and scenery. The final part crosses a barren granite landscape broken only by vast opal-coloured reservoirs. From here, you can see the zig-zag road leading to the Furkapass on the other side of the valley.”
Note about climbing the Swiss Alps with Marmot Tours
Our Switzerland cycling holiday includes a ‘classic’ or ‘challenge’ route each day, depending on how much you want to push yourself. Whichever route you ride, our guides will be able to support you on the road – as proved by this lovely feedback from one of our 2024 tours:
“Great route that was well thought out. All the famous climbs were included and the classic or challenge option was good for the varying levels of ability in the group.” M. Mannix, July 2024
We often find that mini-groups of riders tend to form at the beginning of the week, comprising cyclists who ride at a similar pace to one another, and have similar daily distance/climbing goals.
Choose to ride solo or as part of a group – you have the ultimate flexibility. There’s more on what we offer below.
Sponsor Message
Looking for a Swiss Alps cycling tour?
Here at Marmot Tours, we love the Swiss Alps and we'd love for you to experience them on one of our carefully crafted, guided cycling holidays.
Get in touch via our website, and let's discuss!
5 best routes in the Swiss Alps for cyclists
Below we share the five jaw-dropping routes that make up the Classic route on our Swiss Alps bike tour; we also share the Challenge additions available each day for those looking for more! These routes link up to make a stunning multi-day tour of the Swiss Alps, and incorporate the six climbs above. Together, we think these routes offer the best cycling in Switzerland.
Every year we hone the routes and adapt them, taking into account feedback from guides and guests, to make sure that we’re offering the best cycling route in the Swiss Alps. We also factor in the location of good hotel options when designing our routes – great mountain hotels are important and can be hard to come by!
The map below shows all five days of Marmot Tours’ Swiss Alps tour if you ride the Challenge route:
Biasca to Sedrun

Statistics
- Classic route: 67km with 2,060m of climbing
- Challenge route: 85km ith 2,730m of climbing
- Climbs: Passo del Lucomagno / Lukmanierpass + (Challenge Route) Lai da Nalps
Summary
A gorgeous introduction to the beauty and tranquility of the Swiss Alps, with gradual climbs, picturesque landscapes, and the opportunity to explore a lesser-known, but equally impressive, part of the Swiss Alps.
Route notes
You start out on the Swiss National Cycling route and ride up to the Passo del Lucomagno / Lukmanierpass (1,915m). Starting from an altitude of just 300m, this 41km climb is a gradual and steady ascent, allowing you to take in the ever-changing scenery along the way. You’ll ride through small towns, quaint villages, and alpine meadows dotted with farmsteads, before reaching the pass itself, which is home to a large reservoir whose waters reflect the surrounding high peaks.
From here, you descend into the German-speaking part of Switzerland and the village of Tujetsch.
Challenge route
For those seeking an extra challenge, the climb up to the reservoir of Lai da Nalps (1967m) is a worthwhile addition to the day’s ride. This climb offers stunning views and a true test of your cycling abilities.
Sedrun to Innertkirchen
Statistics
- Classic route: 79km with 2,010m of climbing
- Challenge route: 106km with 2,750m of climbing
- Climbs: Oberalp Pass, Gotthardpass, Sustenpass + (Challenge Route) north side of Gotthardpass
Summary
Oberalp Pass and red Swiss trains, Gotthardpass and cobblestones, fnishing off with Sustenpass and its iconic views. What a way to spend a day!
Route notes
The day starts with a climb up to the Oberalp Pass at 2,044m. As you make your way up, the natural beauty of the mountains surrounds you, with the occasional red Glacier Express train snaking its way up to the pass. After reaching the top, you can enjoy a great descent down to Andermatt, which is a nice place to stop for coffee and chocolate.
The route descends northwards to Wassen and turns west to tackle the incredible Sustenpass at 2,224m. This climb has everything – stunning views, varied terrain, and a massive sense of achievement when you reach the top. The vistas of the Sustenhorn and its glacier are incredible. From there, it’s just a 28km freewheel down to Innertkirchen, where you’ll be spending the next two nights.
Challenge route
In Andermatt, you’ll have a decision to make – do you have the energy to tackle the north side of the Sankt Gotthardpass, also known as the Passo del San Gottardo, at 2,107m? This 12km out and back climb includes 2km of cobblestones, and while you’ll get to experience the more famous south side on day 5, this northern route is a great challenge to add to your day – if you’ve got the legs!
Innertkirchen loop

(Photo credit: Kim Fuller, taken on a Marmot Tours Swiss Alps Tour)
Statistics
- Classic route: 86km with 1,680m of climbing
- Challenge route: 99km with 2,410m of climbing
- Climbs: Grosse Scheidegg (east) + (Challenge Route) Grosse Scheidegg (west)
Summary
For many of our guests, this loop is one of the finest day rides they’ve ever ridden in Europe, if not the world.
Route notes
The climb up the eastern side to the summit of the Grosse Scheidegg, at 1,962 meters, is particularly special because the upper section is closed to regular traffic, allowing you to enjoy the climb in peace. The only sounds you’ll hear are the gentle jingling of cowbells and the occasional horn of a public bus, adding to the serene atmosphere. At the summit, you’ll be surrounded by stunning alpine pastures and the dramatic cliffs of the Eiger.
You descend into Interlaken for a well-deserved lunch.
After refuelling, a scenic route meanders along the northern shore of Lake Brienz for about 15 kilometres, offering beautiful views of the water. Finally, you make your way back through lush meadows to our hotel via Meiringen.
Challenge route
There’s an option to ride the western side of the Grosse Scheidegg.
Innertkirchen to Obergoms
Statistics
- Classic route: 65km with 2,260km of climbing
- Challenge route: 89km with 3,150m of climbing
- Climbs: Grimselpass, Furkapass + (Challenge Route) Furkapass (east)
Summary
Today’s ride is all about the hairpin bends, which come in all shapes and sizes—tight, stacked, sweeping, and even some elevated on stilts. The route includes two of the most breathtaking mountain passes in the world: the Grimselpass at 2,164 meters and the Furkapass at 2,429 meters. These routes are not just beautiful, they’re also a testament to Swiss engineering.
Route notes
The climb to the Grimselpass is memorable, with gradients and scenery that change constantly. As you approach the top, the landscape transforms into a stark granite expanse, punctuated by stunning opal-coloured reservoirs.
From this vantage point, you can see the zig-zagging road that leads to the Furkapass across the valley. As you head up to the summit of the Furkapss, you’re following in the tracks of the thrilling car chase in the James Bond film “Goldfinger” back in the 1960s.
Then it’s a descent to Obergoms, conveniently located near the source of the Rhône River.
Challenge route
Today’s route allows you to descend to Realp and tackle the Furkapass again from the east side. It’s an exhilarating way to experience this iconic climb once more!
Obergoms to Biasca

Statistics
- Classic route: 101 km with 2,090m climbing.
- Challenge route: 134 km with 2,930m climbing.
- Climbs: Nufenenpass, Gotthardpass + (Challenge Route) Grimselpass (south)
Summary
Two of the most famous climbs of the Swiss Alps await today: the Nufenenpass and Gotthardpass. It’s a spectacular finish to a spectacular tour!
Route notes
Today’s route takes you over the second-highest pass in the Swiss Alps, the Nufenenpass, which stands at an impressive 2,480 metres. As you tackle this challenging climb, you’ll be surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks and rugged rock formations. Once you reach the summit, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking view down the valley towards Italy.
The second climb of the day is the Tremola to the Sankt Gotthardpass, at 2,107 metres. While a new road and tunnel handle most of the traffic now, the upper 5 kilometers is a cobbled road that’s still maintained, allowing you to ride on this piece of history. Once you reach the top, you’ll switch to the newer road, enjoying smooth tarmac and sweeping bends as you descend back into the valley.
Challenge route
For those looking for an extra challenge, you can tackle the south side of the Grimselpass at 2,164 meters first thing in the morning.
Sponsor Message
Looking for a Swiss Alps cycling tour?
Here at Marmot Tours, we love the Swiss Alps and we'd love for you to experience them on one of our carefully crafted, guided cycling holidays.
Get in touch via our website, and let's discuss!
How fit do you need to be to ride in the Swiss Alps?
As you can see from the information above, the climbs in this part of Switzerland are long with significant altitude gain
If you’re riding with us at Marmot Tours, then our ‘classic’ route described here is a considerable challenge; the daily average is 80km with 2,020m ascent.
For those concerned about whether this Swiss Alps tour is “enough” for them, the daily average is 104km with 2800m ascent; so enough for most!
Training and pacing
Given how demanding it is to cycle in the Swiss Alps, the fitter you are, the more you’ll be able to enjoy yourself. Finding long climbs to train on can be tricky, but if you work on building your stamina, cardiovascular fitness, and comfort on the bike—especially on back-to-back days—you’ll feel the benefits during the holiday.
The other important factor to remember is the need to pace yourself. Pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone is the fastest way to risk injury or burnout.
On Marmot Tours, we find groups tend to form with cyclists who ride at a similar speed or who have similar goals, so there’s no pressure to keep up with your friend, partner, or roommate. You can ride at whatever pace suits you, and our guides will support you regardless. If you’d rather ride solo, that’s absolutely fine and you’ll get the same support as those riding in pairs or mini-groups.
Back-up plan
The good thing about being on a guided tour with us is that the rides can always be made more manageable with a tactical lift in our support van at the start of each day. Or you could even skip the riding on one of the days (for example, day 3 of our Swiss Alps tour as we do two nights in one hotel). If a rider has had enough, they can also always get a lift in the van at any point.

Do you need a guided cycling tour of the Swiss Alps?
Of course you can organise your own cycling holiday in the Swiss Alps, planning your route, booking accommodation, luggage transfers and the myriad of other details that goes into a cycling trip. The question is whether you have the time and inclination to do that – and also whether you want support while you’re out on the road.
As a company that only offers guided cycling holidays, of course, we’re rather biased in this matter! But here are some of the objective benefits you get from booking a guided cycling tour with Marmot.
Get your questions answered: From your first enquiry when you make contact with our team, they’ll answer any questions you have about the tour to make sure it’s the right holiday for you, your experience and cycling goals. We believe wholeheartedly in the personal touch, which is why we’ve chosen not to have an instant book website.
Reserve without a deposit: Our team can even reserve you a space and pencil in your name while you look into your travel options, before you have to put down a deposit.
Hire a bike that’s built for cycling in the Swiss Alps: You can choose to hire one of our purpose-built hire bikes, with a set up that’s perfect for cycling in the mountains. You can find out more about the spec of the bikes we offer, here.
Pre-trip contact: Via our portal, ‘The Link’, you’ll get a packing list and other helpful pre-trip info, plus you can reach out to your fellow riders to get the excitement levels building. We also set up a trip Whatsapp group once the tour gets under way, which is a great way of keeping in touch with everyone on the tour, including the guides. A few weeks before your departure date, the details of your tour will be uploaded to our app for you to access comprehensive route notes and GPS files, plus info on where we’ll meet you at the airport on your arrival day
Airport transfers included: Once you arrive at your destination, one of our guides will meet you at the airport and transport you and your luggage to the start hotel. It’s all part of the service!
Feel at home from day 1: On the first evening of the tour, you’ll have chance to meet your fellow riders and our expert guides will give you a welcome briefing of what to expect in the week ahead, then enjoy a hearty dinner (with wine included). Whether you’re a solo traveller or have come as part of a group, our guides are experts at making everyone feel welcome and included. The flexibility of a tour like this is that if you are a solo traveller, you can come on holiday with us knowing that you’ll be with like-minded souls who love riding their bike in spectacular locations. The flexible nature of the tour allows you to find other cyclists who ride at a similar pace to yourself. Choose to go it alone or with others – it really is up to you and you’ll be supported by our guides, whichever way you choose to ride.
At least two routes every day – the ‘classic’ and ‘challenge’: The app will show you the ride and climb profiles as well as your chosen route on the map, including the location of cafe and lunch stops, parts of the route where special care is needed and the number of kilometres you can expect, plus metres of ascent. We know our clients really like this approach – this feedback is from our 2024 Swiss Alps tour: “Excellent holiday with well-planned routes, great support and great choice of routes every day.” N. Ball, July 2024
Keep connected with the group: In the app, you can see the location of our guides in the vans, as well as your other riders (if they have location services switched on), so you know who you can hook up with at the next coffee stop. If you choose to switch on location services, you can allow the guides and other riders to see your precise location via the app.
Photos: While you’re free to stop whenever you like to capture the incredible scenery or take selfies with your fellow riders, our guides will be taking photos throughout the week, capturing you digging deep on those climbs, as well as celebrating at the cols. We provide you with a link to the tour photo album a few weeks after you arrive home, so you can treasure the memories of your holiday.
Eat in local cafes and restaurants: We like to support local businesses, which is one of the reasons why we don’t provide picnic lunches as part of our package. The other reason is that we find cyclists’ preference of what they like to eat at lunch on a long ride varies enormously. Some don’t like to eat much and others want a big plateful of pasta, so we’ve found that it’s best to let our clients decide how much or little they eat at lunch, rather than dictate to them.
Van support: You can always expect to see our guides at the top of a col and often throughout a climb, where they’ll park up en route and get out all the yummy snacks, fresh fruit and refreshments for you to help yourself. With your day bag carried in the van, you’ll also have access to that, should you need any extra layers, for example.
Mechanical support: If you have any mechanical mishaps, our guides are in the tour Whatsapp group chat so you can contact them for assistance, if they haven’t already seen you on the road. They can pretty much rebuild a bike with the spares they carry in the van, but if they can’t, then they’ll be able to take you to the nearest bike shop.
First aid support: Unfortunately, accidents do sometimes happen, and this is when you’ll be grateful you’ve got the support of our guides. With their first aid and crisis training, they’re experienced and skilled in what to do when things go wrong, so you’ll be in safe hands.
Luggage transfer: At the end of each day, your luggage and bike box will have been delivered to the next hotel by our guides, so all you need to do is freshen up and get ready for dinner with your fellow riders and our guides. If you’ve hired a bike from us, they’ll even clean it at the end of each day, so you’ve got a sparkling set of wheels waiting for you the following morning.
Dietary requirements dealt with: If you have any specific dietary requirements, we’ll have dealt with those with the hotels in advance, but our guides are experienced and skilled at managing issues on our clients’ behalf should they crop up at a hotel.
Airport transfer: Finally, at the end of an incredible cycling tour, your guides will transfer you back to the airport ready for your trip home.

What are hotels like in the Swiss Aps?
Many hotels in the Swiss Alps embody the classic charm of ski chalets. They often feature warm wooden interiors, cozy fireplaces, and a rustic atmosphere that reflects the region’s heritage. Expect chunky wooden furniture, antique snowshoes on the wall and a warm welcome.
Most hotels in the remoter areas of the Swiss Alps are small and family-run. The owners and staff are usually passionate about providing excellent service, making you feel like part of the family. You can expect friendly interactions and a genuine interest in ensuring your stay is enjoyable. These hotels often reflect the personality and character of the family that runs them. You’ll find unique decor, local art, and personal touches that create an inviting environment.
How Marmot pick the hotels we stay in
We’re proud of our B Corp certification, but we’ve always been a responsible tour operator and so choose wherever possible to stay in locally owned and operated hotels, over large chains. In the Swiss Alps these are more often than not traditional, chalet style buildings. It’s worth bearing in mind that the availability of hotels in remote locations with the number of twin rooms we require is very limited.
When choosing hotels, we make sure they have experience with looking after cyclists, especially when it comes to meals at breakfast and dinner, as we understand the importance of optimum nutrition when spending long days in the saddle on a multi-day holiday. Wherever possible, we choose hotels with a bar so there’s always a sociable area to spend time with your fellow riders, other than simply at the dinner table.
We make sure they always have secure bike storage, parking for our vans, and where possible, laundry facilities though these are limited. We do have a special system for drying wet kit though, so our guides can support you with this.
Sponsor Message
Looking for a Swiss Alps cycling tour?
Here at Marmot Tours, we love the Swiss Alps and we'd love for you to experience them on one of our carefully crafted, guided cycling holidays.
Get in touch via our website, and let's discuss!
What are the best times of year to visit the Swiss Alps?
For the best cycling experience in the Swiss Alps, summer is the prime season, especially for road cycling and mountain biking. Early autumn is also excellent for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes and fewer crowds. Always check local conditions and trail statuses, as weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak season for cycling in the Swiss Alps. The weather is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F) in the valleys, making it perfect for long rides and road cycling in the mountains.
Most mountain passes are open, allowing cyclists to tackle iconic climbs like the Grimselpass, Furkapass, and Nufenenpass.
Summer also hosts various cycling events and competitions, providing opportunities for cyclists to participate in organized rides.
Autumn (September to November)
September typically has mild weather, making it a great time for cycling before many mountain resorts close. With the summer tourists gone, you can also enjoy a more peaceful cycling experience.
Early autumn, particularly early and mid-October, is a fantastic time for cycling as the foliage changes colour.
However, by late October and November, temperatures drop, some passes may be closed due to snow – and if they’re not closed, riding them will be potentially icy and blisteringly cold.
Spring (April to June)
Spring is a beautiful time to visit as the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom. However, many high mountain passes will still be closed due to lingering snow.
Cycling in lower elevations is more feasible during this time, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the valleys.
Winter (December to March)
Winter is not good for Alps cycling holidays due to snow and cold temperatures. However, some areas may offer winter cycling experiences, such as fat biking on snow.

What are your packing tips for cyclists visiting the Swiss Alps?
In summer, expect to ride in just shorts and a short-sleeved top. However, as we all know, the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and it’s not unheard of to find storm clouds and snow on the higher cols in August. Descents in low temperatures and rain can be miserably cold – so it’s best to come prepared for all eventualities.
If the weather is looking dubious, you should carry long fingered gloves, a hat that fits under your helmet, a thin fleece and waterproof. And bring enough sets of cycling clothes that a couple of wet days will not leave you without kit.
Top tip! Occasionally, luggage or bikes are delayed by airline problems, so remember to pack your pedals, bike shoes, and one set of bike clothes in your hand luggage, just in case. Plus any medication or contact lenses of course!
Get more tips for packing for a cycling trip in this article.
What gearing do you recommend for the Swiss Alps?
On some of the steeper climbs in the Swiss Alps, it’s easy to run out of gears. In such cases, if you end up pushing a big gear it can lead to knee pain – for some this can mean game over for their trip. So make sure you have enough gears!
For most people a compact (smallest ring on front having 34 teeth), fitted with a 30 or 32 cassette on the rear, is a good choice. It is possible to fit your bike with larger cassettes, using a rear hanger extender, like the WolfTooth RoadLink.
If this all sounds too complicated then consider hiring a bike. On our tours we offer some excellent titanium-framed bikes for hire, which are fitted with SRAM 50-34 at the front with 11 speed 11-36 toothed cassettes.

What are your best tips for someone’s first cycling tour in the Swiss Alps?
Be prepared
You and your bike need to be in good condition for a cycling holiday in the Alps. Note the points about gearing above – ensure your bike has appropriate gearing for steep climbs. A compact crankset and a wide-range cassette can help you tackle the challenging gradients typical in the Alps.
Know how to descend
If you haven’t done a lot of descending in the mountains, it’s worth trying to get some practice in beforehand. If that’s not feasible, read up and get on YouTube too. Here are some pointers:
Slow down when the roads are wet as your tyres won’t grip as well. Watch out for shaded areas under trees, as these spots tend to stay damp for longer.
Recover first: Before starting a descent, take a moment to refuel with food and water and adjust your clothing if needed. There’s no need to rush to keep up with others.
Ride within your limits: Focus on your own pace and confidence. Let others pass if they’re quicker – it’s not a race!
Look ahead: Keep your eyes on where you want to go, scanning as far down the road as possible. Avoid focusing directly in front of your bike to give yourself more time to react to hazards.
Plan your braking (and do it properly): Apply brakes before entering corners, as braking mid-turn increases the risk of skidding. Shift your weight slightly towards the back of the bike and rely on your front brake, which provides the most stopping power.
Take corners well: Position your outside pedal down and inside pedal up. This prevents your pedal from hitting the ground and ensures balanced weight distribution.
Stay in control: Lower your torso slightly without fully sitting on the saddle. Keep your arms relaxed, elbows bent, and your body centred over the bike for better stability.
Check your hands: If your hands feel cold or numb, stop to warm them up before continuing. You need full control for safe braking.

Ride on the right-hand side
Ride on the right-hand side of the road. Be aware that cars may be on the wrong side of the road at any time (particularly in the mountains). Always stay on your side of the white line at all times.
Take the sun seriously
Don’t get dehydrated: It’s easily done but has potentially serious consequences. Keep drinking and consider bringing electrolytes with you.
Apply sunscreen: Put it on before heading into the sun and reapply regularly. Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like behind your knees and the top of your head.
Wear your helmet: It provides some protection from the sun’s rays and helps keep your head cooler.
Stay cool: Pour water over your head to cool down, or stop to dunk your head in a stream or water trough if you find one.
Use the Swiss public transport system
Switzerland boasts an extensive and punctual public transport network, including trains, buses, and boats. Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited travel on the public transport system, which can save you money and make getting around easier. They even make taking your bike on the train pretty easy, with lots of bike racks – just make sure you’ve got a reservation if you need it.
If there’s a festival on, go
Switzerland has an extensive amateur music scene, and in virtually every village there is a choir or a brass band. The Swiss have always nurtured their customs and this means they have a very healthy Alpine folk music festival – and even yodelling choirs. Visiting a local festival can be a really fun way to spend some time. So if there’s one on your route – stop a while!
Take time to take in the scenery
It’s some of the most spectacular in the world. Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes and local culture. The Swiss Alps are not just about the ride; they offer breathtaking views, charming villages, and unique experiences. Stop for photos, explore local attractions, and savour the journey.

Language
While many Swiss people speak English, knowing a few basic phrases in Swiss German or French can go a long way in enhancing your interactions and showing respect for the local culture.
Play by the rules
Swiss people are generally known for being rule-abiding and law-abiding citizens. For example, Swiss culture places a high value on punctuality. Being late is often considered disrespectful.
The Swiss have a strong respect for laws and regulations. For instance, jaywalking is strictly prohibited, and those caught can face fines. This adherence to rules extends to various aspects of daily life, including taking your bike on a train without a reservation!
There is a mutual respect for neighbours, and many communities have specific rules to maintain harmony, such as noise regulations during certain hours. For example, using washing machines or lawnmowers on Sundays is often prohibited to avoid disturbing the peace.
Highway code and travel information
As ever, it’s a good idea to check current travel information before you book and travel. For UK visitors, the UK government travel information pages for Switzerland are here.
You should also read and follow Switzerland’s highway code.
Monetary matters
Switzerland does not use the Euro, it’s currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF).
Switzerland is generally considered an expensive country to visit. Interestingly, it is reported that the cost of living in Switzerland is, on average, 54.7% higher than in the United States. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around CHF 25.
Of course, we’d say that this is another advantage of cycling Switzerland on a Marmot tour; two of your meals each day are paid for within the cost of your trip!

Tell us more about your cycling tours
Since 2004, Marmot Tours has been helping cyclists achieve their goals with fully supported road cycling holidays in the mountains of Europe. The team pledge to make your road cycling holiday the very best it can be.
Our aim is to ensure that once you come on holiday with us, you won’t want to go on holiday with anyone else!
Expert support
Our mission is to help you have an unforgettable cycling holiday, and to support you whether you’re a cyclist new to climbing or an expert in peak fitness.
We always have two expert (and fun loving!) guides and two fully kitted-out, bespoke support vehicles on every tour.
Our guides offer exceptional mechanical and moral support on the road and have a knack of knowing just where you need them for refreshment and tasty treats to keep you going on those climbs. They are there to support riders, whichever route they choose and however fast they ride; there’s no waiting for the group to catch up. They even take photographs (which are shared in a Flickr album at the end of each trip)!
There’s room for your day bag in the vans and you’ve even got the option of hopping in if your legs aren’t playing ball that day and you’d rather head back to the hotel.
A custom-designed app offers the very best route guidance along with GPS files.
Lots of destinations
Choose from 25 different itineraries in some of the best cycling spots in Europe, from conquering Tour de France classics in France, Vuelta favourites in Spain, or infamous Giro and Tour de Suisse passes in Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia and Austria.
Two types of holidays
Our classic, flexible pace tours offer you multiple route options each day, so you get to decide how much (or how little) you want to push yourself, with no fear of holding up the group, or getting cold at a col waiting for more slower cyclists to catch you up.
Alternatively, choose from a range of epic, point-to-point Raids and set challenges. You don’t want to attempt these without the support from their expert guides!

Customer care
The team at Marmot Tours is incredibly proud of their customer care. This begins with the comprehensive details on their website, detailing every itinerary, what to expect each day, maps, climb and ride profiles, plus helpful blogs and monthly newsletters (you won’t be bombarded with emails from them so it’s a good idea to subscribe to be first to know about new itineraries and departure dates before they get snapped up!).
It’s also demonstrated in the personal advice of the customer liaison team who can be reached by phone or email and who will handle every booking personally to make sure the holiday is right for you, taking into account your cycling experience and goals.
And then there’s our guides! Feedback from one of our 2024 Swiss Alps cycling tours: “Marmot guides make the trip – enthusiastic, knowledgeable and always looking to help… can’t ask for more!” C. Hodges, August 2024
All tours are guaranteed departures
Marmot Tours is also quite unique as a road cycling tour operator in that we only publish tour dates that are guaranteed to run (subject to natural disasters and pandemics getting in the way!). We don’t whip up excitement about itineraries and wait for the ‘magic number’ of bookings before confirming if a tour will go ahead. This means that if you see a tour published on our website, you can have confidence that it will go ahead, so you can research your travel options and get your plans in place.
Attention to detail
We pride ourselves on attention to detail. So, whether you want to cycle with a group of friends, with a partner or you’re a solo traveller, you can be sure of a fabulous cycling experience geared towards you and your goals, with peerless support.
Sustainable travel
Finally, as Marmot Tours is a certified B Corp, you can combine your perfect cycling adventure with giving back to the planet, knowing that we believe in business as a force for good.
Want to find out more?
Head over to our website; we’d love to hear from you!

A huge thank you to Sophie for sharing these detailed insights into cycling the Swiss Alps; whether or not you’re looking for a guided tour, there is tons to take away and we hope you feel inspired to make Switzerland your next cycling holiday destination!
Planning a Swiss Alps cycling trip?
Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for more information on cycling in Switzerland?
- Head to our Switzerland hub page
- Take a look at these cycling routes in Switzerland
- Find out about cycling Lake Geneva
- Read more about the weather in the Alps
- Guide to cycling Verbier
Got a question for Marmot Tours?
Fill out this form and we will pass it to Marmot Tours who aim to reply (within 24 hours wherever they can!)
Got a question for Sophie?
Fill out this form and we will send it to Sophie. We aim to get you an answer within 24 hours where possible!The contents of this website are provided for general information purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on it. You should carry out your own due diligence and risk assessments and take professional advice. Views expressed by interviewees or other users of this website do not necessarily represent our views. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our website is accurate, complete or up to date. If you use any information or content on this website, download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through our website, it is entirely at your own discretion and risk. Epic Road Rides Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on the information and content on this website. Find out more here.
Sponsor Message
Looking for a Swiss Alps cycling tour?
Here at Marmot Tours, we love the Swiss Alps and we'd love for you to experience them on one of our carefully crafted, guided cycling holidays.
Get in touch via our website, and let's discuss!
Comments