Cycling Route Overview
Aare Route
315 km cycling route· ideally split into 8 stages
Distance315 km
Ascent1109 m
Descent2557 m
Stages8
The easiest way to get started
- Start with the map and check bike-friendly accommodations along the cycling route.
- Use the stages below to divide the cycling route into manageable sections.
- To plan your trip individually, use the app on the right or optionally download the GPX file.
The Aare Route, also known as National Route 8 of the Swiss cycling network, offers you a unique opportunity to experience the scenic beauty and cultural diversity of Switzerland along the Aare River. This approximately 315-kilometer route runs from Oberwald in the canton of Valais to the mouth of the Aare into the Rhine at Koblenz, combining breathtaking natural experiences with urban flair.
Your cycling adventure begins in the picturesque Oberwald, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps. From here, you follow the course of the Aare through the Goms, a high valley known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The route then takes you past the famous Aare Gorge, where the river spectacularly squeezes through narrow rock formations – a true natural spectacle.
The route takes you on a journey through historic towns like Meiringen, Interlaken, where you can admire the impressive backdrop of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, and Bern, the charming capital of Switzerland with its rich cultural heritage. In Bern, it's worth taking a break to explore the picturesque old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
After experiencing the urban culture of Bern, the Aare Route continues through fertile agricultural landscapes and small, vibrant towns to the picturesque Lake Biel. The final section of the journey offers relaxed cycling paths along the riverbank, ultimately leading you to the mouth of the Aare into the Rhine.
The Aare Route is well signposted and offers an ideal mix of nature enjoyment and cultural discovery for both casual cyclists and experienced touring cyclists. Pack your bike and get ready for a journey that is both relaxing and inspiring.
Your cycling adventure begins in the picturesque Oberwald, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps. From here, you follow the course of the Aare through the Goms, a high valley known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The route then takes you past the famous Aare Gorge, where the river spectacularly squeezes through narrow rock formations – a true natural spectacle.
The route takes you on a journey through historic towns like Meiringen, Interlaken, where you can admire the impressive backdrop of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, and Bern, the charming capital of Switzerland with its rich cultural heritage. In Bern, it's worth taking a break to explore the picturesque old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
After experiencing the urban culture of Bern, the Aare Route continues through fertile agricultural landscapes and small, vibrant towns to the picturesque Lake Biel. The final section of the journey offers relaxed cycling paths along the riverbank, ultimately leading you to the mouth of the Aare into the Rhine.
The Aare Route is well signposted and offers an ideal mix of nature enjoyment and cultural discovery for both casual cyclists and experienced touring cyclists. Pack your bike and get ready for a journey that is both relaxing and inspiring.
Start here
Aare Route Map
Start with the map to see the cycling route, stage progression and bike-friendly accommodations in context.
Aare Route Stages
8 pre-planned stages help you divide the cycling route into manageable sections more quickly.