Bicycle Switzerland

Switzerland, France, Italy, Liechtenstein, Austria & Germany

Discover the fascinating diversity of Switzerland. Although a small country, it offers a tremendous variety of cultures, languages, cuisine, architecture and refreshing scenery. 

With several short hops on the train or in the support vehicle, even beginning and intermediate cyclists can enjoy this tour.  Those looking for a challenge have the chance to follow a longer and more strenuous route each day with twists, turns, climbs and descends through the majesty of the mountains.  Either option will provide a memorable experience as you explore this enchanting region of Europe.

The culinary delights in Switzerland have been raised to an art, greatly influenced by the four cultural contrasts -- German, French, Italian and Romansh.  On the tour you will have the opportunity to sample not only the gourmet delicacies, but also the regional countryside cooking which is always rich in taste, hearty and nourishing.  Enhance it all with the fine local wines, after dinner Schnapps, mineral water, cider and apple juices.

Plan to arrive at the Geneva Airport no later than Saturday morning.

Saturday, Geneva.  Take time to explore this historic city.  In the afternoon you can relax at a lakeside cafe or go for a warm up ride into the nearby vineyards.  Our get acquainted party tonight is followed by a special dinner.

Sunday, Evian.  A lovely ride along the south shore of Lake Geneva  (Lac Leman in French) takes us across the border into France to the spa town Evian.  The hills are dotted with quaint villages, grazing cattle, vineyards and forests.

Monday, Sion.  Follow the Rhone Valley back into Switzerland with snow capped Alps rising on both sides.  A short side trip takes you to 13th Century Chillon Castle, picturesquely situated at the edge of the lake.

Tuesday & Wednesday, Zermatt.  We cycle as far as Visp -- this is where the climb begins.  You may leave your bike with the sag wagon and take a spectacular rail ride up to Zermatt or bike the 23 additional miles -- a 3,000 foot rise.  Wednesday is set aside for hiking the mountains and exploring this well know resort at the foot of the Matterhorn (14,690 feet).

Thursday & Friday, Verbania.  Today you have the option of cycling over the historic Simplon Pass or taking the train.  The sweeping road takes us over the mountains into Italy.  Friday allows for time to relax at our resort on the shores of Lake Maggiore.  You may wish to visit one of the islands with exotic gardens rising from bare rock terraces.

Saturday, Biasca.  The lake shore road is lined with villas where magnolias and camellias bloom year round.  Nestled between two mountains, Bellinzona is dominated by three Italian style castles.

Sunday, Disentis.  We cross back to the north side of the Alps.  Ornate churches dominate the small villages and herds of goats and sheep graze the farmlands.  Disentis is a popular winter ski resort.

Monday, Chur.  The first of three days of mostly downhill riding as we follow scenic country roads and bike paths along the Rhine River to the Bodensee.  On the way to Chur the road offers fantastic vistas of Switzerland’s “Grand Canyon."

Tuesday & Wednesday, Feldkirch.  Carry your passport, as in a short distance we cross the border into Liechtenstein and then Austria.  We pass through the area that inspired the well-known story of Heidi.  Wednesday morning our local guide will introduce you to Feldkirch with its picturesque arcades and castle.

Thursday, Friedrichshafen.  Continue following the Rhine to the point where it enters the Bodensee (Lake Constance), Europe’s third largest lake.  The bike path meanders over the border into Germany.

Friday, Gottlieben.  A circuitous route along the lake takes you through charming fishing villages, vineyards and fruit orchards.  Farewell dinner party tonight.

Saturday.  This morning we transfer you to Zurich airport or to the local train station.

Tour date:  You pick the date -- 15 days/14 nights.
Tour Leaders:  Gerhard Meng & assistant
Tour price:  $4,355 per person based on a group of 14 to 16 people. 
In order to offer the lowest possible price, the trips are priced according to the number of participants on the tour.  The cost will be lower with more people in the group, and the cost will increase if there are fewer people.  Price can also be reduced if you wish fewer meals or other services included.  The standard of hotels you choose will also change the price. 
Price was last up-dated on November 11, 2009.  Subject to change.

Includes all breakfasts and nine dinners.
What else is included in the tour price? 

On most days we’ll have three cycling options with average distances of 34, 45 and 76 miles.  Shortcuts will be available and every day we’ll also have the option of longer and more challenging bike rides. 
To include the most scenic and interesting parts of the region in the tour, there will be two group transfers during the trip. In addition to the “sag wagon”, a small coach that can accommodate the entire group of tour participants will accompany the group on some days. The support vehicles transfer all luggage, offer mechanical assistance and limited spare parts, and provide a lift if a tour member should tire during the cycling day. The sag wagon comes equipped with a mobile phone and a small library of information on the area.
Good quality bike rentals can be arranged at approximately $27 per day. All frames are “hybrid” style with upright handlebars and have a choice of men’s or women’s frame. Designed in France, they are equipped with Shimano components. All have 27 gears and come equipped with a water bottle, bell, lock, pump, handlebar pack, rear rack and patch kit.

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