The best cycling routes in the Vaud
4.5
(2792)
49,950
riders
1,895
rides
Touring cycling in the Vaud region of Switzerland is characterized by its diverse topography, ranging from the shores of Lake Geneva to the terraced Lavaux vineyards and the elevated Jura Mountains and Vaudois Alps. This varied landscape provides routes that include flat lakeside paths, rolling vineyard trails, and challenging alpine climbs. The region's natural features, such as large lakes and mountain ranges, offer a wide array of cycling environments.
Best touring cycling routes in the Vaud
- The most popular touring…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
4.6
(45)
731
riders
30.9km
01:59
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(33)
216
riders
41.8km
02:56
620m
250m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(17)
123
riders
92.2km
05:53
760m
760m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
212
riders
114km
08:16
2,450m
2,450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
190
riders
69.9km
04:46
1,170m
1,170m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
63
riders
27.6km
01:41
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(106)
1,663
riders
46.7km
02:56
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
54
riders
5.89km
00:23
20m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
24
riders
82.2km
05:32
1,350m
1,350m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(67)
1,474
riders
38.0km
02:16
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice climb from Les Diablerets. Doable (also directly after the Col du Pillon). Especially the last kilometer offers beautiful views and at the top you can see the Mont Blanc glacier (?). There is a small bar at the top but they had no coffee (September).
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Beautiful climb from Gsteig. Mild gradients, hairpin bends, and little traffic (September). At the top is the cable car towards Glacier 3000.
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To be avoided in over 30°C, little shade, but magnificent views
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beautiful view and accessible path, as well as a good alternative to the cantonal road
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nice place in the old town.
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It's simply beautiful here, and nature is so close to you. 👍😋
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Around the middle of the 19th century, there was even talk of writing off Chillon Castle for demolition and using the stones in the construction of the railway. However, the landscape, the grand castle, and the romantic stories of the former prisoners had long captivated many, and interest in the monument's outstanding historical significance was also awakening. And so, more and more travelers visited the castle, which, from the 1820s onward, could also be viewed from the new steamships on Lake Geneva. While Rousseau had already chosen the castle as the setting for a key scene in his 1761 epistolary novel Julie ou la Nouvelle Héloïse, other writers, such as Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas, were inspired by the place, in addition to Lord Byron. The café next to the castle is now called "Byron." The French painter Gustave Courbet depicted Chillon several times during his stay on Lake Geneva, and Eugène Delacroix, who was influenced by Lord Byron's poems, as well as other artists, also painted views of the moated castle, the image of which became widely known through photography in the age of early tourism.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Vaud region?
The Vaud region offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 2,000 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 270 easy, 715 moderate, and over 1,000 difficult trails, ensuring there's a suitable ride for every cyclist.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling in Vaud?
Vaud's diverse topography provides a rich variety of landscapes for touring cyclists. You can expect to ride along the serene shores of Lake Geneva, through the terraced Lavaux Vineyards, and into the elevated Jura Mountains and Vaudois Alps. This means routes can range from flat lakeside paths to challenging alpine climbs, offering continuous scenic views.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Vaud?
Yes, Vaud offers family-friendly options. For instance, the Le Chablais en famille - Loop from the World Cycling Center is an easy 17.1-mile (27.6 km) route, perfect for a leisurely family outing. The region's commitment to cycling includes well-marked routes and e-bike options, making many areas accessible for families.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can visit along the touring cycling routes?
Many touring cycling routes in Vaud pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can explore the dramatic natural amphitheater of Creux du Van, visit the historic Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva, or cycle through the stunning Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The region also features several mountain passes like Col du Marchairuz, offering panoramic views.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Vaud region?
Yes, Vaud has several excellent circular touring cycling routes. A great example is the Loop from Lausanne to Yverdon-les-Bains, a challenging 57.3-mile (92.2 km) ride. Another option is the Balcony of Léman and Col de la Faucille Loop, which offers stunning views over Lake Geneva.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Vaud?
The Vaud region is generally excellent for touring cycling from spring through autumn. Summer offers warm weather perfect for lakeside rides and exploring vineyards. For higher alpine routes, summer and early autumn provide the most favorable conditions. Always check local weather forecasts, especially when planning rides in mountainous areas like the Vaudois Alps.
Can I access touring cycling routes using public transport in Vaud?
Yes, Vaud is well-integrated with public transport, making many touring cycling routes accessible. The region is a preferred area for SwitzerlandMobility, an initiative that coordinates outdoor activities with public transport. This allows cyclists to combine train or bus travel with their rides, especially useful for one-way routes or reaching starting points.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Vaud?
The touring cycling routes in Vaud are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's varied terrain, from the picturesque Lake Geneva shores to the challenging alpine passes, and the well-maintained infrastructure that enhances the touring experience.
Are there options for multi-day touring cycling in Vaud?
Vaud is well-suited for multi-day touring cycling adventures. The region offers services like luggage transport, which simplifies longer tours. Classic routes like the 'Tour du Léman' (around Lake Geneva) cross both Switzerland and France, providing an excellent framework for multi-day exploration. The diverse landscapes also allow for combining different types of terrain over several days.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Vaud offers numerous difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Tour of the Vaud Alps is a demanding 70.6-mile (113.6 km) loop with substantial climbs. Another challenging option is the Sporty Tour of the Jura Bike Route, covering 51.1 miles (82.2 km) with over 1,300 meters of ascent.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, Vaud's charming villages and towns along the routes offer various amenities. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, especially in popular areas like the Montreux Riviera, Lausanne, and the Lavaux vineyards. Many routes, such as the Lutry Beach – Harbor view Lausanne-Ouchy loop from Vevey Vignerons, pass through areas with ample opportunities for refreshments and breaks.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Beginners will find several easy touring cycling routes in Vaud. The Leisurely ride between Montreux and Villeneuve is a short 3.6-mile (5.9 km) trail along the scenic lakeside, perfect for a relaxed ride. The region's flat lakeside paths, particularly around Lake Geneva, also provide gentle terrain for those new to touring cycling.
Most popular routes in the Vaud
Most popular attractions in the Vaud
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