The best gravel rides around Au (SG)

There are over 120 gravel bike trails available around Au (SG), offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy riverside paths to challenging forest climbs.

Yes, Au (SG) offers several easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners. A good option is the Dam border crossing – Old Rhine at Diepoldsau loop from Diepoldsau, which is an easy 13 km (8 miles) trail with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed ride along the Old Rhine.

The terrain around Au (SG) is quite varied. You can expect extensive river pathway routes and dam trails along the Rhine, offering long, flatter sections. There are also more challenging forest trails and climbs towards plateaus, featuring significant elevation gains. The area blends open riverine landscapes with wooded sections.

Absolutely. For advanced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the St. Anton Viewpoint – St. Anton Viewpoint loop from Au SG offer substantial ascents, with over 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) of climbing over 56 km (35 miles). Another demanding option is the Weissenfluh Plateau – Forest Trail loop from Au SG, which features nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) of elevation gain.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Au (SG) are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Illspitz mouth of the Rhine – Rhein River Pathway loop from Au SG is a moderate 70 km (43 miles) circular path exploring the river mouth area.

Along the gravel bike routes, you can discover several natural attractions. Consider visiting the Örfla Gorge or the scenic Feientobel Waterfalls. Many routes also offer stunning viewpoints, especially those climbing towards plateaus like the St. Anton Viewpoint.

The gravel biking experience in Au (SG) is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 160 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, from the long, flat dam trails along the Rhine to the challenging forest climbs, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.

For families, the flatter sections along the Rhine River pathways are generally suitable. Routes with lower elevation gain, such as the Dam border crossing – Old Rhine at Diepoldsau loop from Diepoldsau, provide a more relaxed experience for riders of all ages.

While gravel biking is possible year-round, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be great, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter riding is possible, especially on the lower-elevation river paths, but conditions can be colder and some higher trails might be affected by snow or ice.

Many routes in the Au (SG) region pass through or near villages and towns along the Rhine, where you can typically find cafes, restaurants, or bakeries for refreshments. It's always a good idea to check your specific route on komoot for points of interest and services along the way.

Parking is generally available in and around Au (SG) and the starting points of many routes. Look for public parking areas in the main towns or designated parking at trailheads. For specific routes, komoot often provides details on recommended starting points and parking options.

Au (SG) is well-connected by public transport, particularly by train and bus services. Many trailheads, especially those along the Rhine, are accessible from train stations or bus stops in Au (SG) and surrounding communities, making it convenient to start your ride without a car.