Nufenen - Legendary Mountain Passes

2:30 h
13.73 km
1,131 m
1,347 m
2,479 m
1,132 m
Start: Ulrichen
Destination: Nufenen pass

The Nufenen pass is one of the highest mountain passes in Switzerland. Only the Umbrail pass in Grisons stands higher. This ride between the Canton of Valais and the Canton of Ticino is a must for cycling enthusiasts.

On leaving Ulrichen, the Route of Nufenen pass may not be the most memorable, but it doesn’t take long for the gradient to become demanding and there isn’t much respite during the kilometers up to the summit. As the magnificent setting comes into view bit by bit, it’ll take any cyclist’s breath away. Gradually you’ll see the mountain corries with their ever-snowy summits, as you inch forward on the climb to the top of the pass.

Valais/Wallis Promotion

Pavements

Street

Best to visit

suitable

Depends on weather

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Directions

Shortly after leaving Ulrichen, the first part of the winding road doesn’t take long to become demanding. Quickly the road takes you to a wild nature composed by hundred-year-old fir trees, rocks shaped by frost and wind and rivers tumbling down slopes in waterfalls. After the first rather sinuous kilometers, some long straight line allows to enter a more open mountain circus which attracts irresistibly towards summits. We shall pass next to a farm selling some goat cheese which is the perfect excuse for a break before attacking the final part of the ride. The twisty road shortens your breath as you gain altitude. At the top the view over a small alpine lake overhanging Val Bedretto is impressive and leads toward the Italian side of Switzerland: Ticino.

Tour information

Cultural Interesting
Stop at an Inn

Equipment

We recommend: bike in excellent working order, helmet, gloves and bell, clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof), food and drink.

Directions & Parking facilities

From Brig, follow the cantonal route 19 "Furkastrasse" for 37km until you arrive in Ulrichen. You can travel to the Goms valley coming from Zurich or Lucerne as well.

Parking in the village of Ulrichen. Follow the local car park routeing.

Frequent CFF train connections from all over Switzerland to Brig, then MGB (Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn) train or bus to Ulrichen (1h 15). You can travel to the Goms valley coming from Zurich or Lucerne as well. Find full timetable information at www.cff.ch

Additional information

More information about the destination:

Obergoms

Literature

The tourist office in Obergoms has got brochures and information material about activities in the region.

Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author

Visit the historical villages in the Goms valley.

Safety guidelines

Strictly respect the Swiss traffic rules. Please note that you are running the tour at your own risk and all liability is refused. Please be considerate to plants and animals. For your own safety, wear an helmet every time you ride a bike. Emergency numbers: 144 Ambulance / 117 Police / 1414 Helicopter Rescue (Rega).

When planning, take into account participants’ fitness level and ability. All riding is at one’s own risk.

Map

SwissTopo maps 1:25’000: 1250 Ulrichen / 1251 Val Bedretto