5 family-friendly cycling routes in Switzerland

Is Switzerland secretly flat? The new cycling guide Flat Switzerland by Katrin Gygax answers the question with a resounding “Yes!”

After 13 years of touring Switzerland on her bike, writer and photographer Katrin Gygax shares her favorite flat routes in this informative and witty guide to relaxed cycling.

Flat Switzerland is the ultimate Switzerland cycling guide

From flowery flatliners to refreshing river routes, Flat Switzerland includes no less than 33 unique bicycle itineraries. Most suggestions follow Switzerland’s official national routes marked with red way signs. Katrin has added numerous scenic detours on country roads, too. Or shortcuts to avoid climbs and stay with the book's theme.

Each route works on its own as described in Flat Switzerland. But several of the itineraries can be combined for a multi-day “Tour de Suisse” experience. For instance, one “enhanced” route leads from Aarau all the way to Yverdon-les-Bains. Good to know: these bicycle routes are easy to follow and are suitable for families.

Since the author is also a seasoned train aficionado, each route cleverly starts and ends at a Swiss train station. Katrin includes advice on bike rentals or bicycle transportation by train. And detailed descriptions of each route, overview maps, and links to online GPX/KML tracks.

Some clues are touristic, including highlights along the way, unmissable local delicacies, and lakeside campgrounds. A refreshing bonus: lots of ponds, rivers, lakes, and public outdoor pools. In the introduction, the author covers important safety topics that are helpful for anyone new to Switzerland. These include how to cycle roundabouts or how to make a proper bonfire.

Flat Switzerland is as much a guide as it is a non-fiction travel book. In fact, one could read it from beginning to the end and learn a lot - without ever tracing the routes on a bicycle.

Five family-friendly cycling routes in Switzerland:

Glide along the lakeshore, stop and enjoy the sparkling blue water from one of the many lakeside parks and benches. Look up the hill for a view of the vineyards and historical villas along the lake’s slopes. Slow down past properties with their own waterfront lawns and docks - and dream about spending an entire summer here. This route is ideal for kids above the age of 12.

The beauty of the Engadine Valley lies in its clear, crisp light and magnificent mountains. The historic village of Bever, with its traditionally painted patrician houses, is a highlight of this route. This is Graubünden at its best. Take a stroll through its beautiful lanes and stop at one of the cycling-friendly restaurants.

This international cycling route is excellent for kids (or your own inner child). In just a few hours, it takes you through three countries: Switzerland, Germany, and France. From the city center to an industrial area, riverside, countryside, and back. Route 28 is a great way to get a look at the scope of a significant Rhine harbor. Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID card.

Cruise along the Ticino river to Lago Maggiore, and have a picnic lunch in one of the many lakeside parks or a typical grotto restaurant. Locarno and Ascona are prime swimming destinations, with extravagant facilities for all kinds of water sports or a quiet afternoon with a book under a tree. Enjoy a delicious gelato from one of the many vendors along the lake.

Zip down the Kander Valley and through its scenic forests, with the impressive Bernese Alps to the left and right of you. Postcard villages dot this open, vibrant local and international tourist destination. If you have time, take a gondola to one of the mountains for gorgeous alpine views.

Flat Switzerland

• 33 unique cycling routes in Switzerland, covering all regions
• Illustrated maps, GPX coordinates
• Hardback, English, 235 pages

"This book hits the zeitgeist. It's slow traveling at its best."

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