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The Susten Pass marks the first major climb on the Swiss Bike Adventure route – and what a climb it is!

The road over the Susten is one of the last high Alpine passes to reopen after winter, usually around mid-June, though in heavy snow years it can be delayed well into July. When it finally opens, it offers one of the most spectacular rides in the Alps.

From the start of the route, riders first descend towards Wassen, passing through the dramatic Schöllenenschlucht Gorge with its historic Teufelsbrücke (Devil’s Bridge) – a place steeped in legend and Swiss history.

From Wassen, the Susten climb begins in earnest:
a 18 km ascent with around 1,320 meters of elevation gain. The road winds steadily upwards through forests, alpine meadows, and rocky highlands, revealing ever more breathtaking views of the towering peaks above.

Near the summit, the Susten Tunnel (2,224 m) cuts through the ridge, and on the other side, riders are greeted by magnificent views into the Bernese Alps. To the left, the shimmering Stein Glacier dominates the landscape – a reminder of the raw, glacial power that shaped these valleys.

It’s a climb that captures the essence of the Swiss Alps: wild beauty, perfect tarmac, and a sense of achievement with every turn of the pedals.

Start: 25th July 2026 in Andermatt, Switzerland

The registration is now open:
https://swiss-bikeadventure.com/registration-2026/

#swissbikeadventure #sba2026 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

The new route for the next years 2026 Swiss-BikeAdventure is released.

The 2026 Swiss Bike Adventure brings a fresh twist to the classic route!

In the Jura region, we’re keeping the same course – there aren’t many alternative options, and it’s simply an amazing area that remains relatively unknown to many riders.

The new route includes several fresh climbs, such as Jaun Pass, Maloja Pass, and Splügenpass. With Maloja and Splügen Pass, the route even makes a short visit to Italy. The total distance and elevation gain will remain about the same as in past editions.

Once again, the start and finish are set in Andermatt, right in the heart of Switzerland. Perfectly connected by train from all corners of Europe – whether you arrive from Milan in the south or Zurich in the north – Andermatt is your gateway to an unforgettable ride through the high mountains.

Total length: 1,210km
Elevation gain: 25,469m

And the registration is now open:
https://swiss-bikeadventure.com/registration-2026/

#swissbikeadventure #sba2026 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

August 1st, 18:46 – As the evening sun dipped behind the alpine peaks of Andermatt, Markus Walser rolled across the finish line, just 11 minutes behind his rival, Rüdiger. It was a fitting end to a personal battle that had played out over 1,290 kilometers of grueling terrain.

Riding a self-built titanium machine, Markus cut a unique figure throughout the race. With unwavering focus, he spent most of the route – even on the climbs – tucked low on his aerobars, chasing speed and carving through Switzerland’s dramatic landscapes.

The duel between Markus and Rüdiger became one of the race’s most compelling subplots. Position changes were frequent, tension constant. It wasn’t just about finishing – it was about finishing strong.

In the end, Markus completed the Swiss-BikeAdventure in 6 days, 12 hours, and 46 minutes, greeted at the finish by none other than Rüdiger himself. Two rivals, now comrades, united by the shared experience of a journey most would never dare attempt.

Like many before him, Markus was amazed by the route – a wild loop through his own homeland, revealing hidden gems even a Swiss native might never stumble upon.

Congratulations, Markus – what a ride!

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

When Rüdiger sets out on a bikepacking adventure, he approaches it just like his daily work – as a bike messenger, he’s used to pushing pedals with purpose. Only this time, the delivery was a personal one: 1290 kilometers across the Swiss Alps.

Rüdiger is no stranger to our adventures. A repeat rider and proven finisher of both the Iberica-Traversa gravel and road editions, he returned once again to take on the challenge of the Swiss-BikeAdventure 2025.

From the start, Rüdiger found himself in a silent race with Markus. Each day played out like a metronome: Markus rode early and long, while Rüdiger opted for longer rest and a faster pace. Every morning, Markus had a about 30 km lead. And every evening, he’d manage to stay just ahead – until the final day.

On Day 7, everything changed. Rüdiger left Thusis and didn’t stop again – not until the finish line in Andermatt. Somewhere after Airolo, on the steep and legendary Gotthard Pass, he caught sight of Markus ahead… and passed him for the final time.

Rüdiger crossed the finish line on August 1st at 18:35, just 11 minutes ahead of Markus, after riding non-stop from morning to dusk. He completed the full 1290 km route in 6 days, 12 hours, and 35 minutes.

What a ride. What a duel. What a finish.
Congratulations, Rüdiger!

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

Giovanni Mascherpa was the fourth rider to cross the finish line – and he did it with style and grit.

What he loved most about the Swiss Bike-Adventure were the unexpected climbs and hidden routes – those small, quiet roads that wind through forgotten corners of the Alps. “The hidden games,” as he called them, seemed made just for him.

On the final ascent to the Gotthard Pass, Giovanni dug deep, powering through a relentless headwind with determination and strength. No gust could hold him back.

He arrived in Andermatt on July 31st at 20:35, after 5 days, 14 hours, and 35 minutes on the saddle – conquering Switzerland one hidden climb at a time.

Bravo, Giovanni!

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

Due to the weather conditions, Bart opted to stay in rooms most nights along the route, managing to find accommodations ranging from 50 to 70 Swiss Francs – including dinner and breakfast.

He began his final stage at 4:00 AM in Thusis, with 180 km remaining to the finish line. In the afternoon, he faced a tough headwind while climbing the Gotthard Pass, making the final stretch even more challenging.

Despite the demanding conditions, Bart thoroughly enjoyed the route.

He crossed the finish line in Andermatt on July 31st at 15:54, completing the Swiss Bike Adventure in 5 days, 9 hours, and 54 minutes.

Congratulations, Bart!

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

Hansi Nyfeler is a well-known figure in the ultra-distance cycling world. With countless completed events under his belt – including legendary races like the RAAM (Race Across America, 1st in his category) and the TCR (Transcontinental Race, ) – his experience and endurance are unquestionable.

Originally, Hansi had registered and trained for the 45-SouthWest. However, due to unforeseen circumstances shortly before the start, he had to cancel his participation in the Krakow–Tarifa bike race. Not one to sit idle, he quickly seized the opportunity to join the Swiss-BikeAdventure.

Despite a daunting weather forecast predicting three or more days of continuous heavy rain, undeterred, Hansi lined up at the start and soon found himself in the lead, powering over the Furka Pass in harsh, miserable weather. As he descended into Valais, the sun finally broke through the clouds, welcoming the riders. Unfortunately, Hansi was soon plagued by a series of flat tires and ran out of spare inner tubes. This forced him to detour in Sion to restock.

Despite the setback, he managed to climb back into second position. True to his calm and composed style, Hansi took another break in Biasca – just 65 km and 2,000 meters of elevation from the finish. After a hearty breakfast, he tackled the final major climb of the route: the legendary Gotthard Pass. With its 24 cobblestone serpentines, the Gotthard is not only a challenge, but also a rider’s dream – especially when approached in daylight.

At 62 years old, Hansi Nyfeler crossed the finish line on July 31st at 11:58 AM, securing second place. He completed the 1,290 km route with 25,000 meters of elevation gain in 5 days, 5 hours, and 53 minutes.

Congratulations, Hansi, on yet another incredible achievement!

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

On July 30th at precisely 16:00, Jay Jon rolled into Andermatt as the first finisher of the 2025 Swiss Bike Adventure, completing the 1,290 km route with an astounding 25,000 meters of climbing in just 4 days and 10 hours.

His final stretch took him over the stunning San Bernardino Pass and the iconic Gotthard Pass. The mountains showed their best side, with clear skies and breathtaking alpine views. Yet nature kept things interesting—a strong headwind accompanied him on the descent into Andermatt, adding one last challenge before the finish line.

Jay rode the entire course on a 25kg recumbent bike, relying on his experience, resilience, and efficient setup. True to the spirit of unsupported bikepacking, he never booked a room, instead sleeping in bus stations and roadside shelters. His gear ran flawlessly—no mechanicals, no flats—with only one minor stop on Day 2 to replenish his chain oil supply.

A seasoned ultra cyclist, Jay Jon has previously completed events like Paris–Brest–Paris and several other long-distance endurance rides. His performance this week only adds to an already impressive list of accomplishments.

Awaiting him at the finish was his wife, and after a brief celebration in Andermatt, the two continued on to Zermatt. There, they plan to hike around the Monte Rosa massif, trading two wheels for mountain trails.

Will we see Jay Jon again next summer, when the NorthCape-Tarifa adventure starts on June 20th, 2026?

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

The sun made a welcome return on Day 4 of the Swiss Bike Adventure – and with it, some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes.

Riders rolled out under blue skies, passing the mighty Rheinfall, Europe’s largest waterfall, before heading into the gently undulating terrain of the northeast. The rolling hills around Appenzell offered postcard-perfect views, but the climbing quickly ramped up with the ascent to Schwägalp.

The adventure intensified as participants tackled Vorder Höhi and the rugged Kunkelspass, a lesser-known gem tucked between steep valleys and forested slopes.

By now, the leading riders had crossed into the high Alps, pushing over giants like Albulapass and Flüelapass. But nature threw a curveball: a rockslide just after Tiefencastel, authorities blocked the road for cyclists and pedestrians. For safety reasons, for 1.6km all riders had to either using public transport – or hitch a ride in a passing car.

It’s all part of the adventure – unexpected, raw, and real.

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass

The day began with rain, mist, and chilly temperatures. In the Jura range, it hovered around 10°C.

The route led riders through the Val-de-Travers, a region of breathtaking landscapes: dense pine forests, moorlands, open pastures, and a lake whose ever-shifting moods make it a paradise for nature lovers.

Val-de-Travers is also famous as the birthplace of Absinthe—the “Green Fairy.” This potent, herbal spirit is traditionally made from Grande Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), anise, fennel, and a variety of other herbs. Absinthe was first commercially distilled here in the late 18th century, and during the 19th and early 20th centuries, it gained cult status across Europe—especially among artists and writers like Van Gogh and Hemingway.

In 1910, Switzerland banned absinthe amid a wave of moral panic and health concerns (it was blamed for hallucinations and madness). The ban remained in place until 2005, when absinthe production was once again legalized. Today, Val-de-Travers is a vibrant hub for both traditional and modern absinthe distillers.

The region is also known for its extreme cold. La Brévine, often referred to as the “coldest place in Switzerland,” lies at around 1,040 m elevation. Tucked inside a long, sealed valley, it creates a natural cold-air basin where frigid air settles—especially on calm, clear nights. On January 12, 1987, a record low of −41.8 °C was recorded here—the coldest temperature ever registered in an inhabited area of Switzerland.

By afternoon, the rain stopped, and the views from Chasseral began to clear, though a strong wind swept across the ridge.

At the front of the race, Jay Jon reached Kunkels Pass at kilometer 900, with just 355 km remaining to the finish. The gap between Jay Jon and our “Lanterne Rouge”, Markus, has now grown to 300 km.

Photos: from the Jura range
Rider: Markus

#swissbikeadventure #sba2025 #cyclingswitzerland #bikepacking #ultracycling #mountains #alps #swissalps #switchbacks #adventurecycling #adventurebybike #roadcycling #cycling #swisscycling #ciclismo #rower #sustenpass #nufenenpass #albulapass #rusjanbag #transbikeadventures #sanbernardinopass #furkapass