Weekend in Meiringen
Tackle the beautiful passes of Grimsel, Susten, Furka, and the spectacular Grosse Scheidegg.
Tour Overview
Experience some of Switzerland's most spectacular mountain passes with this challenging weekend tour based in the charming town of Meiringen.
Located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, Meiringen offers the perfect starting point for tackling several iconic Swiss passes. The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the Grosse Scheidegg, a car-free pass that offers breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
You'll also conquer the mighty trio of Grimsel, Furka, and Susten passes, completing the famous "Three Passes" route that is considered one of Switzerland's most scenic cycling circuits. With challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and unforgettable mountain scenery, this weekend tour delivers an epic Alpine cycling experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Meiringen
Arrive in the charming town of Meiringen in the Bernese Oberland. Bike fitting and briefing for self-guided tours.
Day 2: Three Passes Tour
Epic day tackling the famous trio of Grimsel, Furka, and Susten passes in a challenging loop. (120-140km, 3,000-3,500m elevation)
Day 3: Grosse Scheidegg
Ride the spectacular car-free Grosse Scheidegg pass with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. (40-60km, 1,500-2,000m elevation) Departure in the evening or extend your stay.
Highlights
- ✓Grimsel Pass (2,164m)
- ✓Susten Pass (2,224m)
- ✓Furka Pass (2,429m)
- ✓Grosse Scheidegg (1,962m)
Fitness & Difficulty
A challenging weekend for fit cyclists. The Grimsel and Susten are long, steady climbs of 15–20 km, with daily climbing of roughly 1,500–2,200 m. You'll want a good endurance base and confidence on fast Alpine descents. Practise sustained tempo climbing and braking technique on long downhills before you arrive.
Best Season to Ride
The Grimsel and Susten passes around Meiringen are normally open from June to October, with July and August the most reliable for warm, dry riding. The Brünig stays open year-round at lower altitude. Early summer can still bring snow walls on the highest sections of the Susten, which makes for spectacular photos on a clear day.
What's Included
- ✓Personalized tour consultation and planning
- ✓Cyclist-friendly hotel bookings
- ✓Detailed GPX route files
- ✓Luggage transport between hotels (optional)
- ✓On-route cycling accompaniment by Michael (optional)
- ✓Local restaurant and attraction tips
Price
From CHF 400–800 per person. Price includes: personalized route consultation, hotel bookings in cyclist-friendly accommodation, GPX files and detailed route maps, and optional luggage transport between hotels. Not included: flights, bike rental (can be arranged), and meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride the Grimsel and Susten in one loop?
Yes. The classic loop from Meiringen links the Susten and Grimsel (often with the Furka) into one unforgettable big day. I can also split them across two days for a more relaxed pace.
How do I get to Meiringen?
Meiringen is easy to reach by train via Interlaken or Lucerne over the Brünig line. Full arrival details are included in your personal route plan.
Is Meiringen good for less experienced climbers?
The valley itself offers gentler riding, and stages can be shortened. The high passes are demanding, though, so some climbing experience is recommended.
Before You Go
Two essential guides for planning any Swiss cycling holiday:
Plan Your Trip: Related Reading
- Cycling the Gotthard Pass: A Complete Guide to the Tremola
The Gotthard Tremola is the most famous cobbled climb in the Alps. Here is everything you need: its history, the gradient profile, where to start, what to eat in Airolo and how to link it with other passes.
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Tour Details
Duration
2-3 days
Difficulty
Challenging
Location
Meiringen, Bernese Oberland
Distance
160-200 km
Elevation Gain
4,500-5,500m