The best cycling routes around Gurten

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Gurten, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these routes are classified as moderate, with a few more challenging options for experienced cyclists.

The touring cycling routes around Gurten primarily feature river paths, open fields, and quieter roads connecting small towns. You'll encounter gentle rolling terrain with moderate elevation changes, making it suitable for various cycling abilities. The landscape includes green hills, forests, and open agricultural areas.

While Gurten itself is known for family attractions, the touring cycling routes in the surrounding region are generally moderate. For a shorter, more manageable ride, consider the Thermenhotel Geinberg – Gurten Railway Track loop from Gurten, which is about 13.8 km long. The car-free nature of Gurten's summit area also offers safe spaces for children to cycle.

Many routes offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Gurten itself provides breathtaking views of Bern, the Jura mountains, and the Bernese Alps. Along the cycling routes, you might find spots like the Bench by the Pond in the Forest, offering tranquil vistas.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Gurten are designed as loops. For example, the popular Old Weir in Altheim – Inn Cycle Path loop from Gurten is a 43.3 km circular route, and the Gundholing Swimming Lakes – Old Weir in Altheim loop from Gurten is another excellent option at 35.8 km.

The routes often connect small towns and natural features. You can explore historical sites like Reichersberg Abbey or the Historic Wooden House, Safferstetten. Natural highlights include the Wildenau Lake and the Stoppweiher Kiesgrube Nature Reserve.

Gurten's landscape transitions beautifully with the seasons. Spring offers vibrant wildflowers, summer provides lush green vistas, and autumn brings golden foliage. These seasons are generally ideal for touring cycling, offering pleasant weather and scenic backdrops. Winter can be snowy, transforming the area into a winter wonderland, but cycling conditions would depend on snow levels.

Yes, the touring cycling network around Gurten offers routes for various abilities. Most routes are moderate, such as the Frauenstein Castle – View of the Inn River loop from Gurten. There are also a few more difficult routes for those seeking a greater challenge, with more significant elevation changes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, the diverse river landscapes, and the charming small towns connected by the routes. The accessibility and variety of terrain are also frequently highlighted.

The routes often connect small towns, providing opportunities to find cafes and restaurants for a break. Additionally, Gurten itself has restaurants at the summit, accessible via the funicular, which can be a great starting or ending point for your ride.

Yes, several routes incorporate sections of the Inn Cycle Path. A notable example is the Old Weir in Altheim – Inn Cycle Path loop from Gurten, which allows you to experience this well-known cycling route.

If you plan to access Gurten via the Gurtenbahn funicular, parking is available at the valley station in Wabern. This provides a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding cycling routes.