The best traffic-free bike rides around Stausee Gigerwald

The Stausee Gigerwald area, particularly the Calfeisental, offers well-maintained asphalt roads with limited or no traffic, especially beyond the Gigerwald Dam. The road along the southern shore of the reservoir towards St. Martin is known for its quiet sections and scenic tunnels, providing a unique, car-free cycling experience amidst dramatic mountain landscapes.

Yes, there are several circular routes that incorporate the quiet roads around Stausee Gigerwald. For a challenging option, consider the Kunkel Pass – Gigerwald Dam loop from Vättis, which offers significant elevation gain on quiet roads. Another option is the Kunkels Pass – Kunkel Pass loop from Vättis, a moderate route that also provides a circular experience.

You'll encounter varied terrain, from steady climbs to relatively flat sections along the lake. The ascent to the Gigerwald Dam from Vättis is a consistent 8% climb over 5 kilometers on asphalt. Beyond the dam, the road along the reservoir is generally flatter, featuring several illuminated tunnels and breathtaking views of the lake and rock walls. Routes like the Mapraggsee – Kunkel Pass loop from Feuerwehrdepot Valens offer a mix of paved roads and scenic stretches.

The best season for road cycling around Stausee Gigerwald is typically from late spring to early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and the roads are clear of snow and ice, allowing for optimal conditions to enjoy the quiet routes and stunning scenery.

Absolutely. The region is rich in natural and man-made attractions. You can cycle across the impressive Gigerwald Dam itself, offering panoramic views. Further along the lake, the Historic Walser Settlement of Sankt Martin provides a glimpse into traditional Swiss life. The Gigerwald Reservoir Lakeside Road also features numerous viewpoints between its tunnels, showcasing the dramatic rock faces and the serene lake.

The routes vary in difficulty. For example, the Gigerwald Dam – Tamina Bridge loop from Duonig is considered difficult due to its elevation gain. There are also moderate options like the Tamina Bridge – Mapraggsee loop from Vadura, which offers a less strenuous ride while still providing beautiful scenery. It's advisable to check the elevation profile for each route to match your fitness level.

Yes, parking is generally available in the villages surrounding the Stausee Gigerwald area, such as Vättis, which serves as a common starting point for many routes. From these points, you can easily access the roads leading into the Calfeisental and towards the Gigerwald Dam, where traffic becomes significantly reduced.

While direct access to the most traffic-free sections might require some cycling from public transport hubs, you can reach nearby towns like Bad Ragaz by train. From there, local bus services or a short ride can connect you to starting points like Vättis, allowing you to begin your no-traffic road cycling adventure.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the dramatic rock faces, and the unique experience of cycling through illuminated tunnels along the Gigerwald Reservoir. The quiet, traffic-free nature of many sections is consistently highlighted as a major draw.

While the most secluded sections of the routes are remote, the Historic Walser Settlement of Sankt Martin, located along the southern shore of the Gigerwaldsee, offers idyllic accommodations and a restaurant. It's a perfect spot for a break and to experience a traditional Swiss atmosphere.

While some routes involve challenging climbs, the flatter sections along the Gigerwald Reservoir, particularly the road towards St. Martin, can be suitable for families or beginners looking for a scenic and quiet ride. However, it's important to be aware of the one-way traffic system with hourly alternations on this specific road. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's or beginner's capabilities.