4.4
(571)
11,564
riders
248
rides
Road cycling routes around Bäretswil navigate a landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and mountain passes in the Zurich Oberland region. The area features varied terrain, from gentle riverside paths along the Töss River to challenging ascents towards summits like Hulftegg Pass and Pragel Pass. Road cyclists can expect a mix of open country roads and sections through wooded areas, with elevation changes typical of a pre-alpine environment.
Last updated: November 3, 2026
4.8
(17)
496
riders
79.7km
03:57
1,220m
1,220m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.3
(8)
349
riders
141km
07:06
2,170m
2,170m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

4.5
(2)
126
riders
68.5km
03:13
870m
870m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.5
(6)
72
riders
26.3km
01:11
270m
270m
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
70
riders
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Lichtensteig - The capital of Toggenburg The semicircular town was founded around 1200 by the Counts of Toggenburg on a rocky outcrop above the Thur and was dependent on the Abbey of St. Gallen from 1468; since 1803 it has been the capital of the Neutoggenburg district. Lichtensteig is located in the Thur valley. The old town nestles in a semicircle around the mountain and was originally protected by ditches and walls. The gates were demolished in 1828. When a river carves its way over thousands of years, it does not always leave only valleys behind. Because sometimes the water encounters harder opponents, as in Steigrüti. Here, surrounded by fields and forests, lies the Äulischlucht gorge. You can spend a whole day in the Äulischlucht. The old town hall, mentioned in 1534, was renovated in the 17th century. The Türmchenhaus and the 'Glocke' were originally parts of a patrician house in the Hauptgasse from 1583. The renovation dates from 1766. Staircase on the back of the 'Glocke'. In the north of the town is the Loreto Chapel, built in 1677-80, a baroque complex with a prothyrum crowned by turrets. The historic center of Lichtensteig is unique. Since the 13th century, residential and commercial buildings have grown into an organic whole that delights architecture lovers: in the alleys, almost a dozen shops, restaurants, and cafés invite you to stroll and browse. And at events like the Jazz Days or the Christmas market, the old town does not become a backdrop, but remains a central part of the action. The historic old town of Lichtensteig was awarded by the Council of Europe in 1975 for the exemplary maintenance of the place. The preservation and beautification of the townscape is still very important today. Text / Source: Die schönsten Schweizer Dörfer - Via Ciani 5, CH-6900 Lugano https://swissvillages.org/lichtensteig/?lang=de
3
0
Very nice route, great landscape
0
0
Lichtensteig is the only historic small town in Toggenburg. It was founded around 1228 by the Counts of Toggenburg and is picturesquely situated on a rocky spur above the Thur river. The well-preserved old town with its arcades, narrow alleys, and burgher houses is under national protection and received the Wakker Prize in 2023 for its exemplary townscape preservation. In the Middle Ages, Lichtensteig was an important market town and, from 1468 to 1798, the administrative seat of the bailiff of the Abbey of St. Gallen. Worth seeing are the old town, the ruins of Neu-Toggenburg above the town, the Toggenburg Museum, as well as the numerous cafés, small shops, and cultural events such as the Lichtensteig Jazz Days. Historically interesting is also the fact that the Toggenburger Bank, founded in 1863 – a predecessor of today's UBS – originated in Lichtensteig.
2
0
Problem-free ascent to the Hulftegg on the asphalted pass road from Steg, mostly moderate traffic, moderate gradient also for the e-bike.
0
0
Great lake, super beautiful here
0
0
Directly next to it lies the former Hasenstrick airfield (grass runway), in use since 2009.
1
0
This is the Rotenthurm high moor
0
0
There are over 250 road cycling routes around Bäretswil, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The region's diverse terrain, from river valleys to mountain passes, ensures varied experiences.
Yes, Bäretswil offers nearly 40 easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Töss Bridge – Historic Station Hall Bauma loop from Ettenhausen-Emmetschloo, which covers about 25 km with minimal elevation gain.
For experienced road cyclists, Bäretswil provides over 50 difficult routes with significant climbs. The Lichtensteig – Hulftegg Pass summit loop from Bäretswil is a demanding 80 km route featuring substantial ascents to a pass summit. Another challenging option is the Klöntalersee – Pragel Pass loop from Ettenhausen-Emmetschloo, which is over 140 km and includes a scenic lake and a high mountain pass.
Many road cycling routes in Bäretswil are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Töss River Cycle Path – Töss River Bike Path loop from Gibswil offers a 69 km ride through the Töss River valley, returning to your starting point.
Road cycling in Bäretswil offers diverse scenic views, ranging from tranquil river valleys along the Töss to panoramic vistas from higher elevations like the Hulftegg Pass. You'll encounter rolling hills, sections through wooded areas, and open country roads characteristic of the Zurich Oberland region.
While cycling, you can explore various natural attractions. Consider routes that pass near the Bachtel Tower for expansive views, or venture towards the Schnebelhorn Summit. The region also features impressive natural monuments like the Bachtelspalt gorge and the Sagenraintobel Waterfalls.
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Bäretswil, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, which includes both gentle riverside paths and challenging mountain passes, as well as the well-maintained routes through scenic landscapes.
Yes, Bäretswil has routes that can be enjoyed by families, particularly those that are easier and flatter. The region's network includes options with less traffic and gentler gradients, such as the Old Town Fountain, Pfäffikon – Mettlen School Center loop from Ettenhausen-Emmetschloo, which is a relatively short and easy 28 km ride.
The best time for road biking in Bäretswil is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the roads are clear of snow and ice, making for pleasant riding conditions. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide vibrant natural scenery.
Bäretswil and its surrounding areas are generally well-connected by public transport, particularly by regional train and bus services. Many routes start or pass through towns and villages with train stations or bus stops, allowing for convenient access and the possibility to combine cycling with public transport.
Parking is typically available in the larger towns and villages around Bäretswil, often near train stations or public facilities. When planning your route, check the starting point for designated parking areas. Many routes also begin from smaller hamlets where roadside parking might be an option, but always ensure you park legally and considerately.
Yes, many road cycling routes in Bäretswil pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, bakeries, and restaurants for a coffee break or to refuel. The region is dotted with charming Swiss villages, making it easy to plan stops along your ride.


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