Of course there are more than 10 reasons to set off on a cycling trip in Switzerland. The 10 we consider most important are listed below. Spoiler: we have tried to move away from the stereotypical image of Switzerland and name reasons that are perhaps less well known.
Reason #1: The towns and villages – discovering charm and history
Naturally we will get to the mountains, the landscapes and the lakes as well. The downside of scenery like that is that other beautiful things often do not get the credit they deserve. The architecture of Swiss towns, or of grand old farmhouses out in the countryside, is bursting with charm and history. Thanks in no small part to strong heritage protection laws and what is by now probably centuries of peace (Switzerland is the country in Europe that has been at peace the longest), you can admire a huge range of architecture from the past.
New buildings worth a look go up every day too, of course. Whether it is the old sandstone arcades in Bern, the modern Roche Towers in Basel or the picturesque, colourful little town of Appenzell – there is something for everyone. The great thing about sightseeing by bike is that you can also reach places in traffic-calmed zones. And you get to take the houses and buildings in properly, even if you end up deciding not to stop after all.
Reason #2: Landscapes – enjoying freedom on two wheels
Whichever forum, guidebook or travel blog you have read, you will have seen Switzerland’s landscapes, lakes and mountains advertised somewhere already. We will point you to them in this blog too, of course. The lovely thing about the Velotour, as a cycling trip is known in Switzerland, is that you decide where it goes. You are free here, and we would encourage you to make the most of that freedom. We could of course recommend tourist hotspots such as Lucerne or Grindelwald, but have you ever heard of the mystical moorland landscape in the Entlebuch, for example? Or of a small but beautiful lake, the Etang de la Gruère in the Jura? Or what about the little town of Brunnen? Our recommendation: engage with Switzerland and discover it your own way.
Reason #3: Cycle paths – exploring safe, well-signposted routes with Pedalmondo
Switzerland has an outstanding transport and mobility network. Not only is public transport excellent, there is also an incredibly dense network of hiking, biking and even snowshoeing trails. Thanks to SchweizMobil, these routes are extended, cared for and maintained. In our view it is always worth visiting the website to get an overview or to plan your tour right away. More than 12,000 kilometres of well-signposted, well-built paths await you, spread across a dense network of local, regional and national routes. This excellent infrastructure does not just give you peace of mind, it also opens up countless ways to reach places you have always wanted to see.
Reason #4: Mountain passes – taking on challenges and exploring your limits
Switzerland, alpine country that it is, has over 100 road passes. With Pedalmondo’s touring bikes you can pick out a few passes as your own personal sporting challenge. Conquer the rugged mountain landscapes far above the tree line under your own steam and experience a cycling trip full of adrenaline and unforgettable views.
Reason #5: People – genuine encounters on the cycle path
Pedalmondo does not just take you to impressive places, it also makes for genuine encounters with the people of Switzerland. The reserved Swiss mentality gives way on the cycle path to shared interests. Swap travel stories, hear about local insider tips and make real connections.
Reason #6: The languages – experiencing diversity, on the bike too
With Pedalmondo you experience not just the diversity of the landscape but of the language too. Italian, French, German and Romansh – Switzerland’s four official national languages – turn your cycling trip into a cultural experience. Despite the regional dialects, communicating in English is no problem at all.
Reason #7: Direct democracy – experiencing freedom and participation
Pedalmondo lets you experience Switzerland not just as a traveller but also gives you an insight into Swiss direct democracy. Ride through the cantons, take in the diversity and sense the self-determination of the people, which is not just a phrase but a fact.
Reason #8: The food – enjoying the variety
With a migrant population of around 25%, Switzerland offers cultural and culinary variety in equal measure. Alongside hearty Swiss cooking, Pedalmondo recommends taking a look at Switzerland’s „foreign“ cuisines. Discover new flavours and let the culinary variety surprise you.
Reason #9: The cleanliness – clear views for unforgettable photos
„Everything is so clean here!“ You will hear that impression often when you cycle through Switzerland with Pedalmondo. A deep respect for nature and a firmly rooted culture of cleanliness mean not only clear views along the cycle paths, but also the chance to take some striking holiday photos.
Reason #10: The quiet – relaxation surrounded by nature
Despite how densely populated Switzerland is, with Pedalmondo you will find your quiet spot anywhere. The reserved Swiss mentality, paired with breathtaking, remote and almost untouched natural places, creates moments of calm and self-reflection. Pedalmondo lets you find that quiet on your cycling trip.
Fancy Switzerland? Great – then rent the right equipment from Pedalmondo now!
We look forward to joining you on your cycling trip. Discover Switzerland on two wheels and experience unforgettable moments.