Andermatt is an absolute dream region for road cyclists, gravel riders and MTB riders. Andermatt also belongs in a special league. There are a few places in Europe that are undeniably connected to the mountain passes around it. Say Bormio, you think ‘Stelvio’. Le Bourg d'Oisans can be mentioned in the same breath as Alpe d'Huez and no one would know the village of Bédoin without the legendary Mont Ventoux. Andermatt in the Swiss canton of Uri has that too. Indeed, from Andermatt you even have two (or actually four) passes directly linked to it. Say Andermatt, you say Furka Pass and Gotthard Pass. That's why Andermatt is one of the best basecamps for a great climbing adventure in Switzerland. Why you should go cycling in Andermatt? We'd love to explain that to you!
Photos: Dennis Knuist - Femke Meijer - Ruben Hoogland
1) It's all about those legendary loops
If you go to Andermatt, there is no way around it: the Furka pass and the ‘Tremola’ (old Gotthard, with cobblestones) are at your feet. You really should also do the classic round trip with the Furka-Nufenen-Gotthard Pass or (vice versa) Gotthard-Nufenen-Furkapass. Secretly, we recommend the second one, because you will then catch the most beautiful side of the Gotthard as well as the Furka. And that's what this 105km round trip with just over 3000 altimeters is all about. But beware: you will have to pay attention to the weather, because even in summer it can storm. This is how our classic round was once ruined in the middle of July, and also a previous visit to the region culminated in September out in a blizzard. Not bad, but could be better.
Still, it is beautiful there. And besides this absolute classic, you can also take in the other stunning passes. Consider the following climbs that really should be on your bucket list:
- Süstenpas
- Grimsel Pass (after the Furka)
- Lukmanier
- Oberalp
- Klausen Pass
- Passo di Carí
The latter is recommended if you were to get snowed in. Because then you can cross the pass by car and in Ticino it is often nice and sunny! Practical (and more important than you think): check passages, start early, bring lights (especially in the tunnels).
2) Made for cyclists
Andermatt emphatically positions itself as a cycling region: among other things, it is home to Tudor Pro Cycling (the team of former pro Fabian Cancellara) and is betting on cycling infrastructure. If you then think of a cycling hotel, it is best to consider the Radisson Blu in Andermatt booking. This is fully equipped with a washing area, secure storage and you can tinker with your bike.
3) Not just asphalt: MTB and gravel
Those who want to leave the asphalt from time to time are also in the right place here. Besides the well-known passes, the region also has valleys and (gravel) roads such as Unteralp and Witenwasserntal and even a military-historical route (Bäzstrasse). Ideal for those days when you do want to be outside for a long time, but just a little less “col-hunting”. Mountain biking is possible in the Sedrun-Disentis region, with which Andermatt forms a trinity. The routes and tips can be found here
4) The Furka pass: compulsory fare
The Furka is one of those climbs that you don't actually “ride”, but rather experience. Although I also have to say that you do have to plan your time well. Big tip: don't do this climb on a Sunday or public holiday, in the middle of the day. Too many others spoiling your ride. It is a beautiful climb that is not too steep and has few rivals in terms of views and impressions. The most famous side is the west face, with the passage past the legendary Hotel Belvédère.
On CyclingDestination, we have previously created content in which the Furkapas central state, check that too especially.
5) Why especially in summer?
Because Andermatt gives you a classic “coolcation”: fresh mountain air, long days, and routes that pull you from pass to pass. And after your ride: terraces in the village, or you just grab that tranquillity of the mountains. Another reason to come in summer? The highest passes are sometimes still closed. Then it's hard cycling.
Event tip: If you want to do something cool again, the Alpine Brevet highly recommended though.
Mini-planning: 3 days basecamp Andermatt
- Day 1: Oberalp (just warming up, perhaps with the Lai da Curnera included?)
- Day 2: Furka - Nufenen - Gotthard (Tremola as grand finale)
- Day 3: Susten - Grimsel - Furka (the real postcard day)
Accommodation tips in the region
