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Via Rhôna Cycle Path Switzerland

Cycling the Via Rhona bike path in Switzerland

Views in Switzerland

Cycling the Via Rhona bike path in Switzerland

Spot castles along the Via Rhona bike path in Switzerland

Cycling the Via Rhona bike path in Switzerland

Views in Switzerland

Cycling the Via Rhona bike path in Switzerland

Spot castles along the Via Rhona bike path in Switzerland

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Duration

9 days

Activities

self guided cycle

Accommodation

8 nights 3-4 star hotels

Meals

8 Breakfasts

Price

$2150USD

Overview

Trip Code: RSW

Trip highlights

Exploring the impressive valleys of the Gom and countless mountain lakes
Cycling along dedicated bikeways and charming quiet paths through classic Swiss landscapes from the source of the Rhone to Lake Geneva
Exploring the cities of Lausanne and Geneva and diverse towns along the Rhone River
Experiencing natural landscapes such as Lake Geneva
Indulging in local wines and fresh produce of the region

An important highway since the times of the Greeks and Romans, the Rhone Cycle Path showcases the emblematic landscapes of Switzerland through to the Mediterranean sea. This section of the cycle begins in the idyllic mountain village of Andermatt, surrounded by eight Alpine passes and magnificent mountain lakes. Over eight days of cycling, you will explore the landscapes of the Rhone River from its source high up in the Rhone Glaciers, through the dramatic valleys of the Goms region and past an abundance of fruit orchards and vineyards. Sample the many wines on offer in Varen, explore the historical castles, churches and mansions in Sion and enjoy the impressive landscape of snowy summits, orchards and the all encompassing Lake Geneva. Witness the expansion of the river as it makes its way to Lake Geneva. At night, you will stay in a mixture of authentic mountain chalets and comfortable 3* city hotels (upgrade option available). Your cycle will conclude in the cosmopolitan city of Geneva.

Trip Grading

More info about grading system

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Itinerary

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Day 1
Arrive Andermatt

Make your way by train to Andermatt, a village in the Ursern Valley. This quintessential Swiss Alpine village has classic scenes of half timbered houses, with restaurants and shops lining the small town centre. Surrounded by snowy peaks, take some time to absorb the views in preparation for your first cycle day.

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Cycle to Obergesteln or Oberwald (38-40kms / 23.6-24.8mi)

After collecting your bike at the designated location, you begin cycling from this stony Alpine fortress over the treeless pastures of the Urserental. There is a challenging climb to the Furkapass (2430m) and past the ice caves of the Rhone Glacier. Overnight in Oberwald (Cat B) or Obergestein (Cat A). +/-1000m/3300ft

Meals: B

Day 3
Cycle to Brig, through the sun filled valleys of the Goms (50km/31mi)

In Valais German, the Rhone is called 'Rotten'. Today you pass through the Valais along another hilly section through the sunny high valleys of the Goms towards Brig. Be rewarded with impressive views of the Rhone Valley, snow capped mountains and small swiss villages. Overnight in Brig. +620m/2046ft, -1300m/4290ft

Meals: B

Day 4
Cycle from Brig to Sierre, enjoy a wine tasting in Varen (42kms/26mi)

Leaving Brig this morning, the terrain is much flatter, with small rolling hills through the main valley which begins to widen with endless views of greenery. You will leave the river Rhone for part of your cycle today to enjoy a ride through the vineyards to a winery for an included wine tasting. Following your wine tasting, you will continue on to the village of Sierre for your overnight accommodation. +170m/560ft, -320m/1050ft

Meals: B

Day 5
Explore historic Sion and enjoy the high alpine scenery of the Dents du Midi (44kms/27.3mi)

Today, your cycle will pass through the historical city of Sion showcasing two hilltop fortifications; a 13th Century Castle and 15th Century Cathedral. This section of the cycle is dominated by views of the high alpine scenery of the Dents du Midi. Continue today's relatively flat cycle through a world of fruit orchards and vineyards to the quaint city of Martigny, famous for it's gastronomy with a choice of many outstanding restaurants and produce. Overnight in Martigny. +120m/396ft, -180m/595ft

Meals: B

Day 6
Cycle through the narrowest point of the valley, St-Maurice and on to Vevey or Montreux (55-60km/ 34.2-37.3mi)

Leaving Martigny, you cycle past the village towns of Vernayaz and Dorenez to the valley's narrowest point and the medieval town of St-Maurice. St-Maurice lies between a rock face of the alpine peaks and the shores of Lake Geneva. It is full of charm and history. Its worth it to stop here for coffee and a visit to the Abbey dating back to the year 300AD. Continue your cycle along the shores of Lake Geneva and past the Chillon Castle to Montreux (Cat B) or Vevey (Cat A) for your overnight stay. +215-250m/710-825ft, -305-335m/1006-1105ft

Meals: B

Day 7
Cycle along Lake Geneva to Lausanne (20-30km/12.4-18.6mi)

Today's cycle is completely focused on the sublime beauty of Lake Geneva. Follow the shores of the lake past the traditional resort town of Montreux with it's main promenade lined with flowers, Mediterranean trees and grand Belle Époque architecture. Finish today's cycle in the city of Lausanne, famous for being the home to the Olympic Committee's international headquarters and Olympic Museum. With only a short distance to cycle today there is plenty of time to explore the attractions or take a relaxed picnic by the side of the lake, absorbing the astounding views. +425-475m/1400-1570ft, -430-480m/1420-1585ft

Meals: B

Day 8
Cycle past terraced vines to Prangins or Nyon (45kms/27.96mi)

This morning you will enter "La Côte" region of Switzerland. This section of the Rhone Route is known for it's vineyards and impressive view of the high Alps across the lake. You will pass through the market towns of Morges and Rolle with impressive views of the majestic Mont Blanc across the lake and bordered by famous vineyards of the region. Today's cycle will conclude in Nyon or the neighboring village of Pragins (Cat A). Spend the afternoon exploring Prangins Castle or the Lake Geneva Museum in Nyon. +470m/1550ft, -435m/1435ft

Meals: B

Day 9
Cycle to Geneva (30-60km/18.6 - 37.3mi)

Enjoy a leisurely last day along the shores of Lake Geneva. The cosmopolitan city of Geneva announces itself with the infamous 140m-high water fountain. The town is surrounded by villas, yachts and prominent boulevards. Home to Europe's United Nations and the Red Cross, it's is known as the global hub for diplomacy. Your cycle will conclude on arrival in Geneva this afternoon. Alternatively, continue cycling along the Via Rhona all the way to the Mediterranean! It is recommended that you spend a night or two in Geneva to explore this impressive city. Post-tour accommodation should be requested at the time of booking. +235-615m/775-2030ft, -255-605m/841-1997ft

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

8 breakfasts – continental style and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, meats, yoghurt, muesli, coffee, tea and juices.
8 nights in 3 star hotels on twin share basis with ensuite facilities (Cat A Hotel upgrade available (3-4 star) - supplement applies)
Bicycle, 24 speed with pannier, helmet & bike computer (electric bike available - supplement applies)
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Digital information pack including route notes, maps and tourist information per room plus navigational app access
Wine tasting in Varen
Emergency hotline

What's not included

Travel to Andermatt & from Geneva
Meals not listed as included, drinks
Travel insurance - mandatory
Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
Entrance fees not listed as included
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
Excess Luggage
Tourist tax - if applicable is payable locally
Handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the app / GPX files
Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
Items of a personal nature

Bike information

Rental Bike

During the trip you will be provided with a 27 speed bike. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a repair kit, bike computer and lock. Helmet rental is included or you can bring your own well-fitted helmet.

Electric Bike

An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below.

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 16 years and a minimum height requirement is 160cm / 5ft3".

Grading

MODERATE – GRADE 3 Daily cycles are between 25km and 60km / 15.5 or 37.3mi. The first two days of the route are hilly across the high valley of Goms, followed by a flat and undulating terrain for the remainder of the route. The cycling is mainly on paved surfaces on a combination of dedicated cycle ways, charming quiet paths and low traffic roads. Around larger urban sections such as Lausanne and Geneva, care is required with more traffic encountered arriving and leaving these cities. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. E-bikes are available and are recommended if you are uncertain about the pass (available from age 16 only in Switzerland).

Departure dates

Daily from 15 Jun to 29 Sep

Notes

High Season

Note:

High season 15 Jun to 13 Sep, supplement applies

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$2150USD

Options & Supplements*

E-bike supplementUSD$190
Cat A Hotel upgrade supplement (pp)USD$260
Single Supplement - Cat B hotelsUSD$560
Solo Traveller Supplement - Cat B hotelsUSD$600
Single Supplement - Cat A hotelsUSD$670
Solo Traveller Supplement - Cat A hotelsUSD$720

*Prices listed are per person

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