Andermatt is an absolute dream region for road cyclists, gravel riders and mountain bikers. Andermatt also belongs in a special category. There are a few places in Europe that are undoubtedly associated with the mountain passes around them. If you say Bormio, you think ‘Stelvio’. Le Bourg d’Oisans is in one breath with 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. Moreover: from Andermatt you have even two (or actually four) passes that are directly linked to it. If you say Andermatt, you say Furkapass and Gotthardpass. That is why Andermatt is one of the best base camps for a beautiful climbing adventure in Switzerland. Why you should go cycling in Andermatt? We would be happy to explain!
Photos: Dennis Knuist – Femke Meijer – Ruben Hoogland
1) It all comes down to those legendary loops
If you’re going to Andermatt, you can’t help but notice it: the Furkapass and the ‘Tremola’ (the old Gotthard, with its hairpin bends) are right at your feet. You really should do the classic round with the Furka-Nufenen-Gotthard Pass or (vice versa) the Gotthard-Nufenen-Furkapass. We’d actually recommend the latter, because you’ll get to experience the most beautiful part of the Gotthard and the Furka. And that’s what this 105km round is all about, with just over 3,000 meters of elevation gain. But beware: you’ll need to pay close attention to the weather, because even in the summer it can storm. Our classic round was even ruined in the middle of July, and a previous visit to the region spoke in September out in a snowstorm. Not bad, but could be better.
Still, it's beautiful there. And besides this absolute classic, you can also tackle the other beautiful climbs. Think of the following climbs that really should be on your bucket list:
- Süstenpas
- Grimsel Pass (after Furka)
- Lukmanier
- Oberalp
- Klausenpas
- Passo di Carí
The latter is recommended if you get snowed in. Because then you can drive over the pass and in Ticino it is often very sunny! Practical (and more important than you think): check pass openings, Start early, take lights with you (especially in the tunnels).
2) Made for cyclists
Andermatt positions itself explicitly as a cycling region: it is, among other things, home to Tudor Pro Cycling (the team of former professional cyclist Fabian Cancellara) and focus on cycling infrastructure. If you then think of a bike hotel, then you should probably go for the Radisson Blu in Andermatt books. This is fully equipped with a laundry room, secure storage area and you can also have your bike serviced there.
3) Not just asphalt: MTB and gravel
Those who occasionally want to leave the asphalt are also well catered for here. In the region, in addition to the well-known passes, valleys and (gravel) roads are also mentioned, such as the Unteralp and Witenwasserntal and even a military-historical route (Bäzstrasse). Ideal for those days when you do want to be out for longer, but want to do a little less “col-hunting”. Mountain biking can be done in the Sedrun-Disentis region, which forms a trio with Andermatt. The routes and tips can be found here
4) The Furka Pass: mandatory fee
Of Furka This climb is not really something you “drive”, but rather something you experience. Although I must say that you do need to plan your time well. A big tip: don’t do this climb on a sunny or festive day, right in the middle of the day. Too many others will interrupt your ride. It’s a beautiful climb that isn’t too steep and has few rivals in terms of views and impressions. The most famous side is the west side, with the passage along the legendary Hotel Belvédère.
At CyclingDestination we have already created content in which the Fur cap central State, check that too, especially.
5) Why exactly in the summer?
Because Andermatt offers you a classic “coolcation”: fresh mountain air, long days, and routes that take you from one place to another. And after your ride: terraces in the village, or you just take that peace and quiet of the mountains. Another reason to come in the summer? The highest passes are sometimes still closed. Then it’s difficult to cycle.
Event tip: If you want to do something really cool again, then it's Alpenbrevet well worth a try.
Mini-planning: 3 days basecamp Andermatt
- Day 1Oberalp (warm up a bit, perhaps with the Lai da Curnera accompaniment?)
- Day 2Furka – Nufenen – Gotthard (Tremola as the grand finale)
- Day 3Susten – Grimsel – Furka (the real postcard day)
Overnight accommodation tips in the region
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.