The best traffic-free bike rides around St. Niklaus

There are nearly 40 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around St. Niklaus, offering a variety of experiences. These routes range from moderate to difficult, providing options for different skill levels.

The routes in the Mattertal valley offer diverse terrain. You'll find sections on paved, quiet roads, as well as well-maintained gravel paths. Many routes follow the Vispa river, passing through lush green spaces and forests, with stunning views of the surrounding high Alpine peaks.

While many routes involve some elevation, options like the Täsch – Schalisee loop from St. Niklaus offer a moderate challenge with beautiful scenery, including the refreshing Schalisee lake. When choosing a route, consider the distance and elevation gain to ensure it suits your family's abilities.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect breathtaking views of the Mattertal valley, surrounded by peaks like the Dom and Weisshorn. Routes often pass by glacial formations and mountain lakes such as Mattmark Reservoir or the picturesque Lac d'Arpitettaz. The Täsch – Schalisee loop, for instance, takes you past the scenic Schalisee lake.

The best time to enjoy touring cycling in St. Niklaus is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the mountain passes are clear of snow, offering optimal conditions for exploring the valley and higher alpine areas.

Yes, St. Niklaus is well-connected by public transport, particularly the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn railway, which runs through the Mattertal valley. This makes it convenient to access various starting points for your cycling tours without needing a car.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Täsch – Schalisee loop from St. Niklaus, which offers a moderate ride with scenic views.

The komoot community rates the routes around St. Niklaus highly, with an average score of 4.76 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning Alpine scenery, the tranquility of the car-free paths, and the well-maintained surfaces that make for an enjoyable touring experience.

Many routes pass through or near charming villages in the Mattertal valley, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses. For example, the Beautiful lake with a restaurant – Grächen village center loop specifically highlights a restaurant along its path, offering a convenient stop.

St. Niklaus itself has a rich history, particularly its tradition of 'bergfuehrers' (mountain guides), which you can learn about at the Bergfuehrer museum in the Meier Turm. The historic mule trail in the Mattertal, which some routes follow, also offers glimpses into the region's past transport routes.

Yes, given St. Niklaus's location in the High Alps, many routes provide spectacular views of glacial formations. The Saas-Fee – View of the Fee Glacier loop, for instance, offers direct views of the impressive Fee Glacier.