Switzerland might be small in size, but it offers some of the most breathtaking motorcycle routes in Europe—if not the world. With its perfectly maintained roads, awe-inspiring Alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages, this country is a dream come true for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking both thrills and serenity.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 motorcycle routes in Switzerland for scenic views, highlighting their must-see spots, riding tips, and what makes each of them unforgettable.
Let’s hit the road!
1. Furka Pass – Grimsel Pass Loop
The Furka Pass – Grimsel Pass Loop is one of the most iconic motorcycle routes in Switzerland, located in the heart of the Central Alps. This loop connects two of the highest and most scenic Alpine passes—Furka Pass (2,429 m) and Grimsel Pass (2,165 m)—and offers a demanding but rewarding ride for experienced motorcyclists.
The route typically starts and ends in Andermatt, forming a loop that also passes through Gletsch, a small mountain settlement. The total riding distance is around 100 kilometers, making it ideal for a half-day or full-day motorbike trip, depending on your pace and stops.
Key Features of the Route:
- Furka Pass: Famous for its sharp switchbacks, high elevation, and panoramic views over the Rhone Glacier. The road offers visibility of deep alpine valleys and distant peaks.
- Grimsel Pass: Known for its granite landscapes, large reservoirs (like Grimselsee and Totensee), and wide open roads that are perfect for motorcycles.
- Loop Structure: Combines two major passes with a continuous road system that avoids backtracking.
Scenic Viewpoints & Attractions:
- Hotel Belvédère (on Furka Pass): A historic hotel next to a viewpoint of the Rhone Glacier. The hotel itself was featured in the James Bond movie Goldfinger.
- Rhone Glacier Ice Grotto: A 100-meter-long tunnel carved into the glacier, accessible by foot from the Furka road.
- Grimselsee Reservoir: A large artificial lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs, often reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- Totensee (Lake of the Dead): A small alpine lake at the top of Grimsel Pass, known for its stark setting.
- Gletsch: A rest stop between the two passes, with a vintage train station and alpine views.
- Suspension Bridge near Grimsel Hospiz: Short detour offering views over a deep gorge and dam area.
Road Conditions:
- Excellent asphalt quality, suitable for both sport and touring bikes.
- Multiple tight switchbacks, steep gradients, and rapid elevation changes.
- The road is open only from June to mid-October, depending on weather and snow.
Safety and Planning:
- Bring protective gear suitable for cold and wind at high altitudes.
- Start early to avoid heavy traffic, especially during summer weekends.
- Fuel stations are available in Andermatt and Meiringen, but not in the high mountain sections.
- Watch out for fast weather changes. Fog, rain, or snow can appear even in summer.
Summary:
The Furka–Grimsel Pass Loop is among the best motorcycle routes in Switzerland for riders seeking technical roads, high Alpine landscapes, and iconic mountain scenery. With landmarks like the Rhone Glacier and multiple lakes, this Alpine road is both a physical and visual highlight of any Swiss motorcycle itinerary..
2. Susten Pass (Wassen – Innertkirchen)
The Susten Pass is a high mountain pass in central Switzerland, connecting the canton of Uri (Wassen) with the canton of Bern (Innertkirchen). With an elevation of 2,260 meters, it is one of the most accessible yet visually striking motorcycle routes in Switzerland, particularly appreciated for its flowing road design, minimal traffic, and wide panoramic views.
This motorbike route stretches for approximately 45 kilometers, with a steady incline from either side and multiple points for rest and observation. The road was originally built in the 1940s for strategic military purposes and is now considered one of the most scenic Alpine roads in the country.
Key Route Details:
- Start: Wassen (Uri), elevation 930 m
- End: Innertkirchen (Bern), elevation 625 m
- Highest point: Susten Pass summit – 2,260 m
- Length: Approx. 45 km (one way)
- Road type: Well-maintained tarmac, suitable for all motorcycle types
Attractions and Scenic Highlights:
- Steingletscher (Stein Glacier): Clearly visible from the pass road. There’s a designated viewpoint and parking area for observing the glacier and surrounding peaks.
- Sustenbrüggli (summit area): Features several rest areas and panoramic platforms. Good spot for a technical break and photos.
- Göschenertal Valley: Viewable on the Uri side, with deep ravines, alpine forests, and waterfalls.
- Meiringen Region: Near the eastern end of the pass, this area is ideal for extending your ride along motorcycle routes in Switzerland, with local attractions like the Aare Gorge and Reichenbach Falls.
Road Features:
- Long sweeping turns and moderate gradients—ideal for continuous riding without excessive braking.
- Two major tunnels on the route (Totentunnel and Susten Tunnel), both well-lit and motorcycle-friendly.
- Multiple lay-bys with panoramic views, especially near the summit.
- Moderate traffic outside of weekends and holidays.
Accessibility:
- Open from early June to mid-October, depending on snow conditions.
- Not accessible in winter. Snow removal usually begins in late May.
- No vignette needed for motorcycles, as the pass is not a motorway.
Safety & Recommendations:
- Watch for wet patches in shaded areas even during summer.
- Carry extra layers—temperature differences between the valleys and summit can exceed 15°C.
- Fuel is available in Wassen, Gadmen, and Innertkirchen.
- Mobile signal may be weak in tunnel sections and near the summit.
- Susten Pass is often combined with Furka Pass and Grimsel Pass for a full-day Alpine loop.
Summary:
The Susten Pass stands out among motorcycle routes in Switzerland for its combination of ride quality, manageable difficulty, and stunning alpine scenery. With excellent road conditions, glacier views, and minimal tight turns, it’s a preferred route for both novice and experienced riders. The segment from Wassen to Innertkirchen is particularly well-suited for smooth, scenic motorcycle travel through the Swiss Alps.
3. Klausen Pass (Altdorf – Linthal)
The Klausen Pass is a scenic Alpine road that connects Altdorf in the canton of Uri with Linthal in the canton of Glarus. At an elevation of 1,948 meters, it offers one of the most historic and picturesque motorcycle routes in Switzerland. The pass was first opened in 1899 and remains a favorite among local and visiting motorcyclists due to its varied terrain and cultural significance.
This motorbike route spans approximately 46 kilometers, with a consistent mix of sweeping curves, steep gradients, and wide visibility—making it enjoyable for riders of all levels.
Route Information:
- Start: Altdorf (Uri), elevation 460 m
- End: Linthal (Glarus), elevation 662 m
- Highest point: Klausen Pass – 1,948 m
- Total distance: ~46 km
- Road surface: Asphalt, generally in good condition but narrower in places than other passes
Scenic and Cultural Highlights:
- Wilhelm Tell Monument (Altdorf): A cultural landmark commemorating the Swiss folk hero, marking the start of the route.
- Bürglen and Spiringen: Small alpine villages offering typical Swiss rural landscapes and architecture.
- Urnerboden Plateau: The largest alpine pasture in Switzerland, home to herds of cows and traditional summer farms (alps).
- Klausen Pass Summit: Offers panoramic views of the Glarus Alps, steep rock faces, and glacial valleys.
- Linthal Valley: A forested descent on the eastern side, surrounded by waterfalls and cliffs.
Riding Conditions:
- Curvy and technical in sections, especially on the Uri side (Altdorf to the summit).
- Fewer safety barriers in high sections—caution required.
- Eastern descent (toward Linthal) is more gradual and less challenging.
- Less traffic than more famous passes like Furka or Grimsel.
Accessibility:
- Usually open from late May to mid-October, depending on snow.
- No tunnels, so the pass is fully exposed to weather conditions.
- Motorcycle access is unrestricted; no vignette required.
- No fuel stations directly on the pass—fuel up in Altdorf or Linthal before the climb.
Tips for Riders:
- Ideal for intermediate riders who want a balance of technical sections and open stretches.
- Early mornings and weekdays are best to avoid cyclist traffic and tour buses.
- Watch for free-roaming livestock on the Urnerboden plateau.
- No cafés or restaurants directly at the summit, but options exist in Urnerboden and Linthal.
- Limited mobile signal near the summit and in the Linth valley.
Extensions and Nearby Routes:
- Can be combined with Pragel Pass (limited access) or as part of a larger central Switzerland loop.
- The Klausenrennen (Klausen hill climb race) is a historic motorsport event originally held on this pass.
Summary:
Klausen Pass is a top-tier choice among motorcycle routes in Switzerland for riders seeking a combination of alpine beauty, cultural landmarks, and moderate challenge. With wide views, open pastures, and historical relevance, this motorbike route offers a rewarding experience for those who prefer less crowded but highly scenic roads in the Swiss Alps.
4. Lake Geneva to Lavaux Vineyards Route
The Lake Geneva to Lavaux Vineyards route offers a unique contrast to high-altitude passes, making it one of the most scenic low-elevation motorcycle routes in Switzerland. This motorbike route combines lakeside cruising with UNESCO-listed vineyard terraces, picturesque villages, and cultural landmarks. It’s ideal for riders seeking a relaxed, visually rich experience without the technical challenges of Alpine roads.
Route Overview:
- Start: Geneva
- End: Montreux (via Lausanne, Lavaux)
- Distance: Approx. 70 km
- Elevation: Mostly flat to rolling hills (max. ~600 m)
- Surface: Excellent quality tarmac, suitable for all motorcycle types
This route follows the northern shore of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman), passing through several towns and the terraced Lavaux Vineyards, a protected landscape recognized by UNESCO.
Key Points of Interest:
- Geneva Jet d’Eau: One of the tallest fountains in the world; a good starting point for the ride.
- Nyon & Rolle: Lakeside towns with castles, harbors, and scenic promenades.
- Lausanne: A vibrant city with panoramic viewpoints (e.g., Ouchy waterfront), the Olympic Museum, and excellent lakeside roads.
- Lavaux Vineyards: Stretching from Lutry to Saint-Saphorin, these vineyard terraces date back to the 11th century. The roads wind through steep hills with lake views and overlook the Alps across the lake.
- Vevey & Montreux: Cultural hubs with access to the Charlie Chaplin Museum (Chaplin’s World) and Chillon Castle—one of Switzerland’s most photographed historical sites.
Riding Features:
- Wide curves and minimal elevation change—ideal for relaxed, scenic rides.
- Excellent visibility and road markings.
- Multiple pull-off zones and viewing platforms along Lavaux for photo stops.
- Plenty of cafés, wineries, and restaurants accessible directly from the road.
Accessibility & Practical Info:
- Accessible year-round, weather permitting (no snow in low season).
- No vignette required unless entering motorways (recommended to use local roads for views).
- Numerous fuel stations along the route.
- Best ridden in late spring to early autumn; September is ideal for grape harvest and vineyard activity.
Tips for Riders:
- Ride during mid-week to avoid tourist traffic in lakeside towns.
- Keep speeds moderate—this is a scenic motorcycle ride, not a technical one.
- Take time to explore villages on foot—especially Lutry, Saint-Saphorin, and Chexbres.
- Most wineries in Lavaux offer tastings, but alcohol consumption limits for motorcyclists are strict (0.5‰ BAC in Switzerland).
- Park your motorcycle safely before wine tasting.
Optional Extensions:
- Combine with a ride into Château-d’Oex or Gruyères for mountain roads nearby.
- Add the Chillon Castle visit in Montreux to complete the cultural loop.
- Connect north through Fribourg or east through Les Paccots for more varied terrain.
Summary:
The Lake Geneva to Lavaux Vineyards route is one of the best low-altitude motorcycle routes in Switzerland, ideal for riders who value scenery, cultural stops, and relaxed riding. With lakefront roads, historic towns, and hillside vineyards, this motorbike route delivers a memorable and accessible Swiss motorcycle travel experience.aybe a glass of wine at the end).
5. Route des Grandes Alpes (Swiss Segment: Martigny – Chamonix)
The Route des Grandes Alpes is a famous long-distance itinerary through the French Alps, stretching from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. The Swiss segment, between Martigny (Valais, Switzerland) and Chamonix (France), is a short but spectacular portion of the route. Though primarily a French road, this cross-border stretch qualifies among the most scenic motorcycle routes in Switzerland, offering tight curves, dramatic elevation, and views of Mont Blanc and the Trient Glacier.
Route Overview:
- Start: Martigny, Valais (Switzerland)
- End: Chamonix, Haute-Savoie (France)
- Distance: Approx. 40 km (Swiss segment ~25 km)
- Highest point: Col de la Forclaz – 1,527 m
- Road surface: Good asphalt; two-lane, winding mountain road
- Usage: Cross-border motorbike ride, suitable for experienced riders
This section includes a steady climb from Martigny through Col de la Forclaz, before descending toward the French border and entering the Chamonix Valley.
Scenic Highlights and Points of Interest:
- Col de la Forclaz: A narrow, winding pass road with forested slopes and distant glacier views. The summit area includes rest areas and a panoramic view over the Rhône Valley.
- Trient Glacier: Viewable from certain bends in the road; a striking ice mass surrounded by rocky cliffs.
- Trient Village: A small alpine hamlet with a pink church, often used as a photography stop.
- Valley of Martigny: Known for its vineyards and Roman ruins. Offers excellent visibility over the Rhône Plain.
- Chamonix Valley (France): Entry point to Mont Blanc Massif, with cable cars and mountain attractions (e.g., Aiguille du Midi, Mer de Glace).
Road Features:
- Moderate gradients with tight curves on the Swiss side.
- Narrow road segments without median—ride with caution.
- Limited overtaking opportunities due to bends and oncoming traffic.
- Light traffic compared to main Alpine routes, but occasional buses and cyclists during high season.
Accessibility:
- Usually open from May to November, depending on snowfall.
- Fully paved and well maintained, but can be slippery in early morning or after rain.
- No vignette required for this road; not part of the Swiss motorway network.
- Fuel available in Martigny and Chamonix.
Tips for Riders:
- Bring valid travel documents (passport or ID) for Schengen border crossing.
- Weather can shift rapidly near the summit—check forecasts before departure.
- Ride during midweek mornings for minimal traffic and best light.
- Several pullouts available on the Martigny side for safe photography stops.
- Combine with Furka or Great St Bernard Pass for a longer day tour.
Extensions and Loops:
- From Chamonix, continue into France’s Route des Grandes Alpes toward Col des Montets, Col de la Colombière, or Col du Galibier.
- Combine with a return via Great St Bernard Pass to form a circular motorcycle travel loop through both countries.
- Optional detour to Lake Emosson, a high-altitude reservoir in Switzerland.
Summary:
The Martigny–Chamonix segment of the Route des Grandes Alpes may be short, but it stands as one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Switzerland. Ideal for riders looking to add an international dimension to their Alpine motorcycle trip, this road delivers spectacular views, a technical ride, and easy access to both Swiss and French mountain highlights.
Tips for Motorcycling in Switzerland
- No vignette needed for motorcycles (motorways are toll-free for two-wheelers).
- Helmets are mandatory at all times.
- Watch for sudden weather changes, especially in mountain regions.
- Speed limits: 80 km/h on rural roads, 120 km/h on motorways (where allowed).
- Best GPS apps for motorcyclists: Kurviger, Calimoto, Scenic.
- Fuel stops are frequent, but not in the high Alps—plan ahead!
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline in the Alps or cruising gently along a shimmering lake, motorcycle routes in Switzerland combine world-class road conditions with surreal natural beauty. These top 5 scenic motorcycle rides showcase the best the country has to offer—from thrilling curves to postcard-perfect views.
So, which route will you ride first?
Bookmark this guide, share it with your riding group, and start planning your Swiss motorcycle adventure today!