Legendary Swiss Alpine Cycling Passes

Switzerland is home to some of the most legendary road cycling climbs in the world. Here is a guide to the iconic passes every road cyclist should ride at least once.

Furka Pass (2,429m)

Made famous in film and immortalized in cycling lore, the Furka Pass links the Goms valley in Valais with Uri. The western ascent offers stunning views over the Rhone Glacier and the Hotel Belvedere hairpins. It is a centerpiece of our Long Weekend in Goms.

Grimsel Pass (2,164m)

The Grimsel connects the Bernese Oberland with Goms, climbing past a series of dramatic reservoirs and granite walls. Paired with the Furka and Nufenen, it forms one of the most rewarding three-pass loops in the Alps.

Nufenen Pass (2,478m)

Switzerland's highest paved mountain pass, the Nufenen (Novena) is a demanding but quiet climb linking Valais with Ticino. Its high altitude and exposed upper slopes make it a true test of climbing legs.

Gotthard Pass and the Tremola (2,106m)

The historic cobbled Tremola road on the southern side of the Gotthard is the longest cobblestone road monument in Switzerland. Riding its endless hairpins is a journey back in time and a highlight of our Airolo weekend.

Albula Pass (2,315m)

In the heart of Graubunden, the Albula climbs through larch forests and high pastures into the Engadin. It pairs beautifully with the Fluela, Bernina and Julier on our Engadin weekend.

Planning Your Pass-Hunting Trip

Most high passes are reliably open from mid-June to late September. Start early to beat traffic and afternoon storms, carry layers for fast descents, and pace your effort on the longer climbs. Ready to ride them? Explore our Swiss cycling tours or read about cycling essentials in Switzerland.