Gravel routes in Switzerland.
45 Swiss gravel routes, from forest trails near Zürich to remote alpine passes. Part of a collection of 81 gravel routes in the full library.
Switzerland's extensive network of forest roads, farm tracks, and mountain trails makes it one of Europe's best destinations for gravel cycling. Clean air, well-maintained surfaces, minimal traffic, and landscapes that range from gentle lakeside paths to high-altitude alpine traverses.
Our gravel route collection is curated by riders who know these roads firsthand. Every route includes distance, elevation, starting city, and a map. Most routes are rideable on a gravel bike with 35-45mm tyres, though some rougher sections may benefit from wider rubber.
Gravel near Zürich
Some of the best gravel riding in Switzerland is within 30 minutes of Zürich. The Sihlwald, Switzerland's only wilderness park, offers quiet forest roads through ancient beech forests. The Albis ridge provides panoramic views of the Alps. The Pfannenstiel and Forch areas connect trails through rolling farmland and woodland.
Alpine gravel
Beyond the midlands, Switzerland's alpine regions offer serious gravel adventures. High-altitude military roads, shepherd trails, and historic trading routes provide access to terrain that road bikes can't reach. Expect longer days, bigger climbs, and the kind of solitude that makes the effort worthwhile.
Tyre and bike recommendations
For most Swiss gravel routes, a gravel bike with 40mm tyres is ideal. Tubeless setup is strongly recommended for the rocky alpine sections. Drop bars with flared drops provide comfort on longer rides. Frame bags are useful for carrying essentials on remote routes where there are no shops.
Gravel events
Pedal Peak runs regular gravel group rides from Zürich. These are social rides at a conversational pace, open to all levels. Check the events page for upcoming dates. For competitive riders, events like The Rift (Iceland), The Traka (Spain), and various Swiss gravel fondos offer race-format gravel experiences.
Featured gravel routes.
Gravel Realp Loop
Andermatt, Switzerland
Gravel Steinerberg Loop
Zurich, Switzerland
Gravel Campo (Vallemaggia) Loop
Locarno, Switzerland
Gravel Spiringen Loop
Schwyz, Switzerland
Gravel Lucerne to Matten bei Interlaken
Lucerne, Switzerland
Gravel Samedan to Prad am Stilfserjoch
Samedan, Switzerland
From the blog.
Gravel cycling in Switzerland: common questions
What are the best gravel cycling routes in Switzerland?
Switzerland's forest roads, farm tracks and alpine traverses make it ideal for gravel. Near Zürich, the Sihlwald, Albis and Pfannenstiel are favourites; further out, the Jura and pre-Alps offer longer days. Pedal Peak curates 45 Swiss gravel routes with distance, elevation and maps.
What tyres do I need for gravel riding in Switzerland?
Most Swiss gravel is rideable on 35 to 42mm tyres. Forest roads and farm tracks suit 35-38mm, while rougher alpine traverses and looser surfaces are more comfortable on 40-45mm. Tubeless setups help with grip and puncture resistance.
Where can I go gravel cycling near Zürich?
All three of our most popular areas are reachable by S-Bahn from Zürich HB in under 30 minutes: the Sihlwald, the Albis ridge and the Pfannenstiel above Lake Zürich. Quiet forest roads and farm tracks, rideable from March to November. Take the train out, ride home along the lake.
Is gravel cycling in Switzerland beginner-friendly?
Yes. Many Swiss gravel routes are gentle forest and lakeside loops with modest climbing, well suited to newcomers, while others build to remote alpine traverses. Pedal Peak lists distance and elevation for every route so you can match a ride to your level.
How do I get to Swiss gravel routes without a car?
Swiss trains carry bikes, and every Pedal Peak gravel route starts from a town or city, so you can take the train to the start and ride from there. No car needed.
More riding.
Advertisement