The best cycling routes around Bern

Bern offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 3,800 routes to explore. This includes a wide range of options, from easy riverside paths to more challenging rides through hilly terrain.

The Bern region provides diverse landscapes for touring cycling. You'll find flat, easygoing paths along the Aare River and around lakes like Lake Biel, as well as rolling hills and lush meadows in the Emmental Valley. The pre-alpine terrain of Gantrisch Nature Park offers a mix of gravel and asphalt, providing varied experiences for all skill levels.

Yes, Bern has many easy routes perfect for beginners and families. The Bremgarten Forest offers wide, flat gravel paths leading to natural attractions like the Glasbrunnen. The Gäbelbachtäli Valley also provides a leisurely route, and the Aare River paths are generally flat and scenic. For example, the Aare Route: Nidau - Solothurn (Stage 5) is a moderate option with minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely. Experienced touring cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes, particularly in the hilly Emmental Valley and the Gantrisch Nature Park. These areas feature significant elevation changes and offer rewarding climbs and descents. Routes like the Burgdorf West heart loop or the Herzschlaufe Sense provide substantial climbs and panoramic views.

Yes, circular routes are a popular option in Bern. The Green Belt Bern Trail is a varied 59-kilometer loop encircling the city, offering panoramic views of the Bernese Alps. The Emmental Valley also features several heart loops, such as the Heart loop Burgdorf West, which allow you to start and end in the same location.

Many routes in Bern feature stunning riverside and lakeside scenery. The Aare River is a central feature, with paths like the From Biel to Bern along the Aare River offering picturesque views. You can also cycle around the shores of Lake Biel, with routes such as Around Lake Biel providing beautiful waterside experiences.

Bern's touring cycling routes often pass by impressive natural attractions. You can explore gorges like the Taubenloch gorge or the Twannbach Gorge. The Frienisberg High Plateau offers the Chutzenturm, a 45-meter-high tower with panoramic views. Don't miss the Waterfall in Taubenloch Gorge or the Schüss Waterfall in Biel/Bienne for refreshing stops.

Yes, many routes integrate Bern's rich history and culture. The UNESCO-listed Old City of Bern is a common starting and ending point for tours, offering a cultural dimension to your ride. You can also cycle to viewpoints like the Rosengarten for stunning city views. In the Gantrisch region, routes may pass by historic sites such as the Riggisberg Castle Gardens and the ruins of the Rüeggisberg monastery.

The Bern region is known for its charming farm shops, guesthouses, and cafés, especially in the Emmental and Gantrisch areas. Many touring cycling routes are designed to pass through villages and rural areas where you can stop to sample local specialties, enjoy a meal, or simply recharge with a coffee. The Eymatt campsite restaurant in Gäbelbachtäli Valley is another option for a break.

Bern has excellent public transport connections, making it easy to access many cycling routes. Trains and buses often allow for bicycle transport, though it's advisable to check specific operator rules and peak hour restrictions. This allows you to combine cycling with public transport for longer tours or to reach starting points further afield.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the serene riverside paths to the challenging Emmental hills, and the well-maintained, clearly signposted routes. The opportunity to combine natural beauty with cultural sights and local culinary stops is also frequently highlighted.

Spring through autumn generally offers the best conditions for touring cycling in Bern. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the landscapes are vibrant. While some routes might be accessible in winter, many paths, especially in higher elevations, can be affected by snow and ice, making spring and summer ideal for enjoying the full range of experiences.