The best cycling routes around Stausee Gigerwald

The touring cycling routes in the Stausee Gigerwald area range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 3 moderate routes and 4 difficult routes. While some paths, like the lakeside road to St. Martin, are largely flat and paved, others involve significant elevation changes and can include unpaved segments, requiring good fitness.

For families or those seeking a less strenuous ride, the path along the southern shore of the Gigerwald Reservoir to the Walser settlement of St. Martin is a good option. This route is largely flat and runs at the reservoir's level, offering continuous scenic views and passing through illuminated tunnels. It's suitable for all fitness levels.

The routes offer stunning views of the 150-meter-high Gigerwald Dam and the dramatic Calfeisen Valley with its rugged rock faces. You can also explore the historic Walser settlement of St. Martin, and enjoy the sparkling blue waters of the reservoir, often with mini waterfalls cascading down the rock walls. The Gigerwald Reservoir Lakeside Road itself is a notable feature.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For example, the Calfeisental – Gigerwald Dam loop from Stausee Gigerwald is a moderate 7.4 km (4.6 miles) loop. Another option is the more challenging Gigerwald Dam – Vättis Village Center loop from Simel, which covers 24.7 km (15.3 miles).

The best time for touring cycling around Stausee Gigerwald is typically during the warmer months when the roads are clear of snow and ice. The region's beauty, with its sparkling blue lake and green valleys, is particularly enjoyable from late spring through early autumn. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific regulations for dogs on cycling routes can vary, many outdoor areas in Switzerland are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. It's advisable to check local signage or specific route descriptions for any restrictions, especially in nature protection areas or near livestock.

The historic Walser settlement of St. Martin, located at the far end of the lake, offers a tranquil stop and may have small establishments. For more options, routes that connect to villages like Vättis, such as the Gigerwald Dam – Vättis Village Center loop from Simel, will provide access to cafes and restaurants.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the impressive Gigerwald Dam, and the unique experience of cycling through illuminated tunnels along the reservoir. The variety of routes, from moderate lakeside rides to challenging mountain ascents, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, some routes in the broader area explore beyond Stausee Gigerwald. For instance, the Mapraggsee – Tamina Bridge loop from Vättis is a difficult 24.8 km (15.4 miles) route that takes you past the Mapragg reservoir and the impressive Tamina Bridge, known for its 270-meter span.

One of the longest and most challenging routes is the Kunkel Pass – Kunkels Pass Tunnel loop from Vättis. This difficult route spans 59.6 km (37.0 miles) and involves significant elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours to complete as it leads through mountainous terrain and tunnels.

Absolutely. The Calfeisental – Gigerwald Dam loop from Stausee Gigerwald is a moderate 7.4 km (4.6 miles) route that can be completed in under 40 minutes, offering a quick yet scenic experience of the dam and valley.

You will encounter a mix of terrain. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, especially along the lakeside road to St. Martin. However, some segments, particularly on more challenging routes, may be unpaved, gravel, or involve hiking trails, requiring a touring bike suitable for varied conditions.