The best traffic-free bike rides around Stausee Mattmark

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Stausee Mattmark. These routes offer a range of difficulties, with 2 easy, 5 moderate, and 3 difficult options to choose from.

Yes, for an easy and scenic ride, consider the Around the Mattmarksee - loop. This route is approximately 8 km long and offers a gentle experience around the stunning turquoise reservoir, parts of which are even accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, making it suitable for families.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Stausee Mattmark are rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see the impressive Mattmark Reservoir itself, surrounded by high alpine tranquility and glacial peaks. Other highlights include the unique Icicle Tunnel at the Mattmark Reservoir and the beautiful Waterfall Over Hexagonal Basalt Columns. The routes also offer breathtaking panoramas from viewpoints like the View of Mattmarksee.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Around the Mattmarksee - loop, which circles the reservoir. Another great circular option is the moderate View of Saas-Grund – Saas-Fee loop from Saas-Almagell, offering diverse scenery.

The best season for no-traffic touring cycling around Stausee Mattmark is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During these months, the alpine passes are usually clear of snow, and the weather is more stable, offering pleasant temperatures and stunning views of the high-alpine landscape and glaciers.

The routes vary in difficulty. You'll find easy, mostly flat paths suitable for beginners, such as the loop directly around the Mattmark Reservoir. There are also moderate routes with some elevation gain, and more challenging options like the View of Mattmarksee – Final Ascent in Valais loop from Saas-Almagell, which involves significant ascents and is best suited for experienced cyclists with good fitness levels.

Yes, the Saas Valley, where Stausee Mattmark is located, is well-served by public transport. You can typically reach Saas-Almagell, a common starting point for many tours, by bus. From there, access to the no-traffic routes, including those around the Mattmark Dam, is convenient.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Stausee Mattmark are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 41 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled alpine scenery, the tranquility of the car-free paths, and the impressive views of the reservoir and surrounding glaciers. The well-maintained paths and the variety of routes catering to different fitness levels are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, some routes venture through or near charming villages in the Saas Valley. For instance, the Saas Fee old granaries – Saas-Fee loop from Saas-Fee offers glimpses of traditional Valais architecture, including historic granaries, providing a cultural element to your ride amidst the stunning natural landscape.

The duration and distance vary significantly. An easy loop like Around the Mattmarksee - loop is about 8 km and can take around 45-50 minutes. More extensive moderate routes, such as the Lake of the Fairies – Walser Houses of Pecetto loop from Macugnaga, can be around 12 km and take over an hour, depending on your pace and stops.

While the touring cycling routes themselves are primarily within the Swiss Saas Valley, the region offers connections to Italy. From the southern end of the Mattmarksee, a path leads up to the Monte Moro Pass and the Italian border, marked by a golden Madonna statue. This offers an opportunity for further exploration on foot or a more challenging cycling ascent if you wish to extend your adventure beyond the immediate no-traffic routes.