Switzerland

Thoughts on Cycling in Switzerland

Switzerland is shockingly and amazingly mis-marketed to the cyclo-tourist. I think this is because the Tour de France gets the most attention informs what we cyclists think are the gold standards of cycling climbs. Let me just say as a cyclist who has ridden a lot of the big climbs in France, the challenges of Switzerland are much greater than in France or anywhere I can think.

Switzerland in a nutshell for cyclists

  • Epic and unequaled beauty
  • It’s more expensive than most of Europe
  • The food and coffee are just okay
  • The people speak English well but are reserved
  • The climbs are huge, the roads are excellent, and there is little traffic
  • Bonus: You may chase down Fabian Cancellara

You can cover a lot of the biggest and best climbs in a hub-and-spoke manner from just a few base camps. Bring your A-game because the Swiss Alps will kick your ass.

Veloviewer infographic from my 2017 raid on Switzerland

veloviewer of ted's 2017 tour of switzerland

The Best Road Cycling Climbs in Switzerland