Bike & Boat tour in 2025?Cabins are Filling up Fast!Find trips
Duration
10 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 9 nights 3 star hotels
  • Optional upgrade available
Meals
  • 9 Breakfasts

Price

$2850USD

 
 

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. Your cycle will conclude in the cosmopolitan city of Geneva.

Trip Grading

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. +235-615m/775-2030ft, -255-605m/841-1997ft

Meals:  B

Your cycle will conclude after breakfast. Alternatively, continue cycling along the Via Rhona all the way to the Mediterranean!

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

  • 9 breakfasts – continental style and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, meats, yoghurt, muesli, coffee, tea and juices.
  • 9 nights in 3 star hotels (Cat B) 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). The rental bikes have handlebar phone holders
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Digital navigational app
  • Wine tasting in Varen
  • Emergency hotline

  • 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
  • Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Accommodation


Bike information


Trail Surface


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 28 Jun to 14 Sep

Notes

H
High Season
DN1
High season is from 28 Jun - 29 Aug. Supplement applies to high season departures.

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

$2850USD

Options & Supplements*
  • E-bike supplementUSD$250
  • Cat A Hotel upgrade supplement (pp)USD$310
  • Single supplementUSD$860
  • Solo traveller supplementUSD$1080
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips