Rellerli Bike Trail

The village of Saanen is a common and convenient starting point for the Rellerli Bike loop. You'll find parking options there, making it easy to begin your ride.

The main Rellerli Bike loop is generally considered difficult, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills due to its challenging terrain and steep sections. While there's a shorter, easier segment called the "Rellerli Bike: Schneit Trail" (2 km, green difficulty), the overall route is not recommended for beginners.

The terrain is highly varied. You'll encounter asphalt mountain roads, winding and steep gravel roads, natural roads, and significant singletrack segments. Be prepared for technically demanding descents, especially from the Rellerli Mountain Restaurant towards Saanen, where you might need to push your bike in parts. Approximately 16 km are asphalt, 4 km natural surface, and 5 km singletrack.

The route offers magnificent scenery, including panoramic views of the Freiburg, Valais, and Bernese Alps. You'll pass through traditional Alpine farming regions, the remote Grischbach valley, and the quaint village of Abländschen, dominated by the striking rock faces of the "Gastlosen". Don't miss the Panoramic view of the Jungfrau and Saanenland and the Singletrack With Panoramic View.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride along parts of the Alpes vaudoises-Pays de Fribourg, Alpine Bike - Etappe 15, Lakes Route, Rotieggweg, Mittebachweg, Bortgässli, and Rellerliweg, among others.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails within the Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park. However, given that the route traverses traditional Alpine farming regions and passes through areas with livestock, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to ensure their safety and respect local regulations and wildlife.

No, there are no specific permits required or entrance fees to ride the Rellerli Bike trail or to access the Gruyère Pays-d'Enhaut Regional Nature Park for recreational activities like mountain biking.

The best time to ride this loop is typically from late spring to early autumn (roughly May to October), when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable for mountain biking in the Alps. This allows you to fully enjoy the lush Alpine vegetation and panoramic views.

The Rellerli Bike loop is approximately 24.3 km long with over 900 meters of elevation gain. For an experienced mountain biker, it typically takes around 2 hours and 37 minutes of active riding time, but plan for longer to account for breaks and enjoying the views.

While the Rellerli mountain station and restaurant are no longer operational, you'll find options for refreshments and meals in the villages along the route, particularly in Saanen, which is a common starting and ending point. The highlight Bikesport Reuteler in Saanen could also be a good stop for bike-related needs.

Given the trail's difficulty and varied terrain, essential gear includes a well-maintained mountain bike, helmet, appropriate cycling apparel, plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit, and navigation tools. Due to the technical descents, knee and elbow pads are also highly recommended. Always check the weather forecast before you go.