The best traffic-free bike rides around Erlenbach im Simmental

There are over 110 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Erlenbach im Simmental. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 22 easy, 33 moderate, and 58 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for every touring cyclist.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll find flat, well-maintained cycle paths winding through the Simmental valley floor, ideal for leisurely rides. For more challenging adventures, routes ascend into the rolling hills and mountainous areas, sometimes incorporating gravel trails and narrow roads, offering breathtaking views of peaks like Niesen, Stockhorn, and Gantrisch.

Yes, the flat valley floor of the Simmental offers excellent family-friendly options. The cycle path connecting Erlenbach to Lenk is particularly suitable, passing through charming villages and traditional Simmental houses. Many routes also feature convenient BBQ areas along the way, perfect for a family outing.

The region is rich in natural beauty and cultural landmarks. You can encounter stunning waterfalls like the Cholerenschlucht Gorge and the Simme Waterfalls in Wimmis. The routes also offer views of the majestic Niesen, Stockhorn, and Gantrisch mountains. Additionally, you'll pass traditional Simmental houses, showcasing local heritage.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example of a challenging loop is the Seebergsee – Seebergsee loop from Zwischenflüh, which covers over 20 km. Another option is the Amsoldingen Basilica – Simmen Bridge loop from Wimmis, offering a longer, more demanding ride.

The best season for touring cycling is generally from spring to autumn. During these months, the weather is most favorable, and the alpine meadows are lush. While some lower valley routes might be accessible in milder winter conditions, the higher, more challenging routes are best enjoyed when free of snow and ice.

Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. For instance, the challenging Diemtigtal Grand Tour, spanning over 50 km with significant elevation, can take around 4 hours. Shorter loops, like the Wiriehorn Bike Park – Schwarzenberg Mountain Restaurant loop from Amtsbezirk Niedersimmental (14 km), might take just over an hour and a half, depending on your pace and stops.

Yes, Erlenbach im Simmental is well-served by public transport. The region benefits from several train stops conveniently located along the main cycle paths, offering excellent flexibility to combine cycling with train travel. This allows you to shorten routes or easily return to your starting point.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Simmental valley, the well-maintained and quiet paths, and the diverse range of routes that cater to all abilities, from leisurely family rides to challenging mountain tours.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Diemtigtal Grand Tour offer significant elevation gain and distance, traversing varied terrain within the Diemtigtal Nature Park. Another demanding option is the Bike loop from Reutigen, which includes over 800 meters of ascent.