St.-Gotthard-vier-Pässe-Bike

The postbus takes you conveniently from Airolo to the start of the route on the Nufenen Pass (2,478 m above sea level). The pass road between Goms (VS) and the Bedretto Valley (TI) is the highest one running entirely within Switzerland. The pass offers a superb view of the snow-covered peaks of the Bernese and Valais Alps. And you can see a first glimpse of the route ahead; some sections of the trail are clearly visible from above.

The trail first takes another detour across the cantonal border into Ticino before continuing on Valais soil. The top section runs through a high alpine landscape: across stony terrain and past drystone walls and other relics from Roman times. It is worth taking a look into the distance: apart from the incredible view across the entire valley, you can see the peaks of Finsteraarhorn, Mönch, Jungfrau and Eiger in the background when visibility is good. This is followed by flowing sections over soft alpine meadows and forest floors. It is interspersed with short, technically more demanding parts. The Nufenen Pass road crossings offer ideal opportunities for a break.

The trail always runs next to the Ägene mountain stream and the pass road out of the valley. The vegetation as well as the flora and fauna change during the descent: it is often windy and fresh at the top of the pass, even in midsummer; the landscape is rocky and barren. Towards the bottom, it becomes warmer and the landscape is more colourful; the ground feels softer and the trail is more flowing. Once in the valley, you follow the Rhone route between Ulrichen and Oberwald. This stage is suitable for experienced mountain bikers, and the focus is on downhill fun.