Furka - Mythical Alpine passes

3:00 h
16.50 km
1,064 m
3 m
1,368 m
2,429 m
1,061 m
Start: Oberwald
Destination: Furka Pass

From the village of Oberwald high in the Vallée de Conches up to the summit, the route leads to one of the highest Swiss passes connecting the canton of Valais with the canton of Uri.

The Furka Pass is probably one of the most beautiful passes in Switzerland and, after the Nufenen Pass, the Great St. Bernard Pass and the Umbrail Pass, it is the fourth highest at 2431 meters. The route leads from Oberwald in the beautifully situated Vallée de Conches to the summit, which lies exactly between the cantons of Valais and Uri, approaching the Rhone Glacier. Here springs the river that flows across the canton to Lake Geneva and eventually empties into the Mediterranean. The restaurant, which sits high above this imposing place, is perfect for a stopover.

Valais/Wallis Promotion

Best to visit

suitable

Depends on weather

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Directions

The Furka Pass lets cycling enthusiasts discover the border of Valais and the source area of the Rhone, the major river of the canton. After the first kilometers, which lead through the forest and past waterfalls between Oberwald and Gletsch, you head towards Andermatt and the canton of Uri. From Gletsch, a long straight section follows the mountain range before the next segment winds up again in switchbacks. On the left side, there is a spectacular view of the Rhone Glacier, which impresses sustainably despite the required effort. The last kilometers of the pass are somewhat less steep again and offer a magnificent view of the Uri Alps and the Gotthard massif in the distance.

Tour information

Cultural Interesting
Stop at an Inn

Equipment

Our recommendation: Technically flawless bicycle, helmet, gloves and bell, weather-appropriate clothing (always carry rain protection), drink and food.

Directions & Parking facilities

From Brig, follow the cantonal road 19 (Furka road) for 40 km to Oberwald.

Parking spaces available at the railway station in Oberwald. Follow the local parking guidance system for this.

Train connections with the SBB to Brig. Then regional train of the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn or bus connection to Oberwald.

Additional information

More information

Literature

Brochures:

Road bike - The map

Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author

Stop at the Hotel Belvédère and pay a visit to the ice grotto at the Rhone Glacier.

Safety guidelines

Respect the Swiss road traffic rules. Riding this route is at your own risk; any liability is excluded. Respect the flora and fauna in your surroundings. For your safety, we recommend wearing a bicycle helmet. Emergency numbers: 144 ambulance / 117 police / 1414 Rega.

Properly assess your own abilities and fitness. Riding the different routes is fundamentally at your own responsibility.

Map

Topographic maps 1:25'000 Swisstopo: 1250 Ulrichen

Event