The best cycling routes around Lake Sils
4.5
(138)
15,057
riders
55
rides
Touring cycling around Lake Sils offers routes through the Upper Engadine valley in Graubünden, Switzerland, characterized by its alpine lakes, surrounding larch forests, and mountain peaks. The region features a diverse landscape with routes ranging from lakeside paths to trails that traverse mountain passes. Lake Sils itself is the largest natural lake in the Alps above 1,000 meters, with waters reflecting the surrounding scenery. The area includes the car-free Val Fex and the Maloja Pass, providing varied terrain for cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Lake Sils
- The most popular touring cycling route is View of Lake Silvaplana – Lake St. Moritz loop from Lake Sils, a 25.8 miles (41.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 1 minute to complete, offering expansive views of multiple Engadine lakes.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lake Silvaplana – View of Lake Sils loop from Sils im Engadin, an easy 12.1 miles (19.5 km) path that winds along the shores of Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana, featuring gentle gradients.
- Local touring cyclists also love the View of Lake Sils – Church of St. Lawrence, Sils loop from Lake Sils, an 8.6 miles (13.8 km) trail leading through picturesque lakeside areas and past local landmarks, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lake Sils is defined by alpine lakes, larch forests, and mountain passes, with routes offering options for various ability levels, from leisurely lakeside rides to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Lake Sils are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 16,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Sils's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
5.0
(1)
26
riders
19.5km
01:08
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
riders
14.4km
00:57
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
10.5km
00:37
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
7.41km
00:42
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
12.9km
00:45
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Lake Sils
Tips from the Community
Sils Maria is a historic village in the Engadine, known for its connection to Friedrich Nietzsche and its cultural significance. In the beautiful Engadine village of Sils, at 1802 meters above sea level, everything is a little more intense: the tranquility, the changing seasons, the light, nature – happiness. Vacationers who found St. Moritz too hectic continued on to Sils Maria. That's how it was a hundred years ago; and that's how it still is today. It's palpable at every turn: those who come to Sils want to nourish their souls. And in doing so, they want to experience the warmth of a small village with around 810 inhabitants, where tourism has a long tradition and has been a way of life for over 100 years. Two Hearts, One Soul Sils Maria and Sils Baselgia: Our village has two names because it comprises two settlements. Sils Baselgia grew up around the Church of San Lurench. It was first mentioned in 1356 and still stands today. "Baselgia" is derived from basilica (church). In Sils Maria, the larger of the two villages, the large dairy farm once stood. The name "Maria" refers not to a proper name, but to the term "dairy farm." "Sils" means something like "green meadow" or "long strip of land." This also referred to the Sils lake plain. It is still a "green meadow"—thanks to landscape and nature conservation efforts and the awareness of these values that the people of Sils possess. Text / Source: Sils Information Center "Engadin Tourism AG", Via da Marias 38, Sils/Segl Maria https://www.sils.ch/de/guide/sils-im-engadin/dorfportrait
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The parking lot has been closed, at least temporarily.
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Europe's highest-altitude shipping line, operating from mid-June to mid-October. Not in winter, of course, as the water is covered in ice and snow... Routes can be seen on the map. The boathouse for the ship is also located here, with numerous information boards.
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The picturesque church of San Lurench is located in the center of the Baselgia district of Sils. It is surrounded by a cemetery and the Inn river flows next to it. There is a post bus stop right in front of the church, where there is also a direct bus service to St. Moritz.
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From here the small boat sails on Lake Sils in summer.
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Fantastically beautiful sight and view of the mountains in the Engadin
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lake Sils?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes available around Lake Sils, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These include 26 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 17 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Lake Sils?
The terrain around Lake Sils is varied, featuring flat and gentle paths along the lake shores, through extensive larch forests, and meadows. You'll also find routes that traverse mountainous areas and connect to other valleys like the car-free Val Fex, offering a mix of leisurely rides and more challenging ascents.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes around Lake Sils?
Yes, many routes around Lake Sils are suitable for families, particularly those that stick to the flat, gentle paths along the lake. The region's well-maintained trails through forests and meadows are ideal for leisurely rides. An excellent option is the Lake Silvaplana – View of Silvaplana loop from Sils im Engadin, which is an easy 10.4 km route.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes around Lake Sils?
Yes, circular routes are a popular way to explore the area. For example, the Lake Silvaplana – View of Lake Sils loop from Sils im Engadin is an easy 19.5 km circular path that winds along the shores of both Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana. Another option is the View of Lake Sils – Church of St. Lawrence, Sils loop from Lake Sils, an 8.6 km loop through picturesque lakeside areas.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see along the cycling routes?
As you cycle, you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Lake Sils, surrounded by larch forests and towering mountains like Piz Corvatsch. The wooded Chastè peninsula offers charming views, and you can find the Nietzsche Memorial Plaque there. Many routes also pass by the Sils Maria boat dock and offer views of other Engadine lakes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Lake Sils?
The best time for touring cycling around Lake Sils is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. In autumn, the larch forests surrounding the lake display a spectacular golden hue, making it a particularly attractive time. The consistent Maloja wind is also a characteristic feature of the area, especially in summer.
Is it possible to combine cycling with public transport around Lake Sils?
Yes, during the summer months (end of June to end of September), a public transport boat operates on Lake Sils. This allows for flexible planning, enabling cyclists to combine riding with a scenic boat trip across one of Europe's highest lakes with such a service.
Are there options for parking near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, parking facilities are available in villages like Sils im Engadin, which serve as common starting points for many routes around Lake Sils. These spots provide convenient access to the cycling trails.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Lake Sils?
The touring cycling routes around Lake Sils are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning alpine scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels.
Are there any dog-friendly touring cycling routes around Lake Sils?
Many of the paths around Lake Sils are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially the wider, less technical trails through forests and along the lake shores. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and be mindful of other trail users and local regulations.
Where can I find cafes or places to rest along the routes?
Villages like Sils im Engadin and Maloja, located at either end of the lake, offer various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Many routes pass through or near these villages, providing convenient spots for a break, a meal, or an overnight stay.
What are some easier touring cycling options for beginners?
Beginners can enjoy many easy routes around Lake Sils. The View of Lake Sils – Sils in the Engadine loop from Lake Sils is an easy 7.4 km route, perfect for a relaxed ride. The paths along the lake shores generally feature gentle gradients, making them accessible for those new to touring cycling.
Are there any routes that connect to other lakes in the Engadin region?
Yes, several routes connect Lake Sils to other picturesque lakes in the Upper Engadine valley, such as Lake Silvaplana and Lake St. Moritz. The View of Lake Silvaplana – Lake St. Moritz loop from Lake Sils is a popular 41.5 km trail that offers expansive views of multiple Engadine lakes.
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