The best gravel rides around Thusis

Thusis offers a diverse network of nearly 20 gravel bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from moderate valley rides to challenging alpine ascents.

You can expect a wide variety of terrain. Routes often traverse dramatic landscapes, including deep gorges like the Viamala, wide river valleys such as the Rhine and Domleschg, and feature alpine climbs towards passes like Glaspass. You'll encounter everything from riverside paths to more rugged mountain sections.

Yes, there are several routes suitable for those new to gravel biking. For a moderate introduction to the local landscape, consider the Canova Cruise, which is about 18.6 km long and takes around 1 hour 24 minutes to complete.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like Thusis - Glaspass - Thusis offer significant elevation gain and panoramic views over 36.4 km. Another demanding option is the Through the Viamala Gorge from Thusis to Andeer, a 27.4 km route with substantial climbing.

Many routes offer breathtaking views. The Viamala Gorge itself is a spectacular natural feature with rock walls plunging up to 300 meters. Routes leading to Glaspass provide impressive panoramic views. You might also encounter idyllic mountain lakes like Lai da Vons, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the Domleschg valley, known as the 'orchard of Graubünden'.

Yes, the region is rich in history. The Domleschg valley is dotted with numerous castles and fortresses. You can also find the ruins of Hohenrätien Castle perched above Thusis. The Wooden Church of Obermutten is another notable historical site.

Yes, there are circular options available. For instance, the Polenweg Trail – Alter Schin Historic Trail loop from Sils im Domleschg offers a challenging 64.4 km loop through historic landscapes. Another loop option is the Beautiful village of Tamins – Historic Center of Tamins loop from Thusis, covering 54.4 km.

The gravel biking experience in Thusis is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders frequently praise the dramatic landscapes, the varied terrain from gorges to alpine ascents, and the well-maintained network of trails that offer diverse experiences for all levels.

Thusis is a departure point for the Albula Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While specific routes directly integrating public transport for gravel bikes aren't detailed, the presence of the railway and bus services in the region suggests possibilities for combining rides with public transport connections, especially for longer point-to-point tours.

While specific cafe stops aren't listed for every route, the region has amenities. You might find places like Hotel and Restaurant Tgantieni or various huts such as Skihütte Term Bel (Emser Skihütte), which can serve as refreshment points, especially on longer tours or those venturing into higher elevations.

The diverse natural environment around Thusis, with its alpine flora and fauna, is particularly vibrant during spring and summer. These seasons generally offer the most favorable weather conditions for exploring the full range of trails, from valley rides to higher mountain passes.