The best traffic-free bike rides around Greifensee

The Greifensee region offers a wide selection of routes for gravel biking. This guide features over 120 trails, ranging from easy to difficult, many of which are designed to keep you away from traffic and immerse you in nature.

Yes, Greifensee is excellent for beginners. The Greifensee Loop is a popular easy route, approximately 23 km long with minimal elevation gain, much of it traversing the Greifensee Nature Reserve. Another great option is the Lake Greifensee loop from Nänikon-Greifensee, which is also rated easy and keeps you close to the lake.

You can expect diverse and protected natural landscapes. The trails often feature continuous views of Greifensee itself, with its fens and reed beds, and pass through lush greenery, especially picturesque in springtime. Beyond the lake, you'll find green countryside dotted with isolated farmhouses and small villages, offering a serene escape.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Greifensee are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The classic Greifensee Loop is a prime example, offering continuous lake views. Another option is the Greifensee Lakeside Cycle Path – Dübendorf Weir loop from Fällanden, which also provides a great circular experience.

Along your ride, you can discover several points of interest. You might pass by the historic Greifensee Castle, which overlooks the lake, or the charming old town of Greifensee with its Gothic church. Natural highlights include the Greifensee Outflow and Weir and the tranquil Wooden dock on the shore of Lake Greifensee near Niederuster, perfect for panoramic views.

Spring is particularly beautiful, with abundant flowers and lush greenery around the lake. Summer offers warm weather for longer rides and opportunities to enjoy bathing areas. Autumn provides stunning foliage. While winter conditions can vary, some routes remain accessible, though you should check local conditions for ice or snow.

The Greifensee region is well-connected by public transport. Many starting points for routes, such as Volketswil, Fällanden, and Nänikon-Greifensee, are accessible by train or bus. Additionally, bicycles can be transported on some of the lake's scheduled boat services, offering flexible route planning and unique access points.

Yes, while many routes are easy to moderate, there are options for advanced riders seeking more elevation gain and technical sections. For instance, the Bruni Bridge over the Töss – Töss Singletrack loop from Schwerzenbach is rated difficult and offers a longer, more demanding ride with significant elevation changes.

The komoot community highly rates the Greifensee trails, with an average score of 4.38 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene, traffic-free environment, the continuous lake views, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels. The natural beauty and sense of escape from city life are frequently highlighted.

Yes, you'll find numerous spots around the lake perfect for rest and relaxation. There are picnic areas, and some spots are equipped with grill pits. The charming historic town of Greifensee also offers cafes and restaurants. You can also find facilities like the Maur Ferry Terminal or Niederuster boat harbor which often have nearby amenities.

While the main Greifensee Loop is popular, the region offers many paths that provide a quieter, more natural experience, especially the narrower dirt paths closer to the lakeshore. Exploring routes that venture slightly away from the immediate lakefront into the surrounding countryside, like the View of Lake Greifensee – Lützelsee loop from Nänikon-Greifensee, can lead to more secluded sections and hidden viewpoints.