The best gravel rides around Mels

Yes, Mels offers several easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families. For instance, the Rhine Cycle Path St. Gallen – Rheindammweg loop from Sargans is an easy 18.7-mile (30.1 km) route that follows the Rhine river with minimal elevation gain.

The Mels region provides a diverse range of gravel biking experiences. You'll find a good mix of routes, with approximately 4 easy trails, 20 moderate trails, and 26 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels from casual riders to experienced gravel bikers.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, Mels has over 25 difficult gravel bike routes. A notable example is the Sargans Cycle Path – Kurhaus Sennis loop from Mels, a 28.2-mile (45.4 km) trail that includes significant elevation gain, often taking nearly four hours to complete.

Gravel biking in Mels offers varied and scenic landscapes. You'll ride through the flat river plains of the Rhine Valley, along riverside trails, and through agricultural areas. Routes also venture into the foothills of the Alps, providing views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

The Mels region is generally suitable for gravel biking from spring through autumn. The lower valley routes are often accessible earlier and later in the season. For routes with higher elevation, late spring to early autumn typically offers the most pleasant conditions.

Yes, many gravel bike routes in Mels are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Rheindamm Cycle Path (Rheinradweg) – Old Rhine Bridge at Vaduz loop from Sargans is a popular moderate 25-mile (40.2 km) circular route.

The Mels area is rich in natural and historical attractions. Along your rides, you might encounter various points of interest. Nearby, you can explore fascinating sites like the Gonzen Iron Mine in Sargans, the unique Tüfels Chuchi cave, or the impressive Tamina Gorge with its Thermal Spring.

There are over 50 gravel bike routes available for exploration around Mels, offering a wide variety of distances, difficulty levels, and scenic experiences.

The Mels area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from nearly 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from flat river paths to challenging alpine foothills, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to all abilities.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Mels and its surroundings offer several extended gravel bike routes. An example is the Jenins: Village and Church – Vineyards of Jenins loop from Sargans, which covers over 54 miles (87 km) through varied landscapes.

Mels and nearby Sargans are well-connected by public transport, making it convenient to reach many trailheads without a car. Many routes start directly from these towns, which are accessible by train and bus.