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Vorderrhein and Rhone valley 7-day Self-guided Cycling Tour Level 3
The Rhine-Route frames the east of Switzerland in a big bow. You start with a proper climb across the Oberalp pass, the region of the Rhines source, continue through the romanisch-speaking Surselva, and get impressive views of the wild valley Ruinaulta and visit the rätoromanian capital Chur. With the typical local wind at your side you ride through the Bündner Herrschaft (local district) and on the Rhine dam quickly to the wide Lake Constance, where orchards, castles and happy tourist chatter decorate the shore of the green and silver shimmering "Swabian Sea".
The height profile of the Rhine-Route is very steep at the beginning – because the Oberalp Pass and the alpine district of Surselva are followed by the spectacular panoramic stretch through the «Swiss Grand Canyon»: the wildly romantic Rhine Gorge. Afterwards you ride – in a jaunty up and down – through the wine growing region of the Bündner Herrschaft. From Bad Ragaz however the route generally follows the Rhine.
If you would like to rent a bike (125 CHF) or e-bike (249 CHF) please contact our office when booking: [email protected]
Slow Tours offers a number of other Cycling Tours in Europe
Individual arrival in Andermatt
Andermatt - Disentis, approx. 30 km
The clear source of the Rhine rises at the Tomasee, not far from the Oberalp pass, the biggest ͞obstacle͟on the Rhine-Route, which is why casual bikers start their trip in Disentis. In Val Tujetsch lies one of the richest and most fascinating sources of mineral deposits in the Alps and also the monastery village of Disentis.
Disentis – Ilanz, approx. 30km
Surselva - "above the forest" - Graubunden’s largest Romansch-speaking region. The wild gorge of the Vorderrhein is awe-inspiring - Switzerland’s Grand Canyon.
Ilanz – Maienfeld / Bad Ragaz, approx. 50 km
Chur, the oldest city north of the Alps, has the highest density of restaurants. Spend a moment in this city before continuing your path along the tranquilly flowing river. In the evening, Maienfeld awaits you, home of the famous Blauburgunder wine.
Maienfeld / Bad Ragaz – Buchs, approx. 30 km
The Bündner Herrschaft, Graubunden’s fertile garden and winery lies on a mound of slate detritus. It is also the home of Heidi, Geissenpeter and the Alpöhi.
Buchs – Rorschach and surroundings, approx. 50 - 70km
The St.Galler Rheintal is an area often cosseted by the warm föhn wind. Much land has been won by the correction of the Alpenrhein waters in Rheintal. This has also created Europe’s largest freshwater delta with a wealth of birdlife
Departure or extension
If you prefer to drive yourself but would like to follow our itineraries and hotel choices we can help you with a brand new Renault vehicle - minimum 21 days - and have your itineraries and hotels ready for you.
Please email [email protected] for your choice of vehicle and pick-up and drop-off points in European countries.