7 days through the Swiss Alps to the Dolomites
Day 1: Annemasse – Andermatt
Distance: 290 km
Riding time: 5h35
Departure from Annemasse towards Thonon-les-Bains via Bons-en-Chablais. In Évian, you can enjoy a first break near the Casino or directly on the lakeside.
Continue towards the Swiss border at Saint-Gingolph, following the shore of Lake Geneva with beautiful views over the lake and the Swiss Riviera.
After Aigle and its vineyards, the road becomes more twisty. You cross the Col du Pillon (1546 m) and Les Diablerets on a charming road lined with dark wooden chalets.
Pass through Gstaad, famous for its elegant pedestrian center and luxury boutiques, then reach Thun, whose historic center along the river and lakeside restaurants are particularly pleasant.
Ride along Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, located on either side of Interlaken, before climbing the famous Susten Pass (2259 m), a legendary road well known among motorcyclists and often used for commercial filming.
After the descent, head towards Andermatt, a well-equipped alpine town with many motorcycle-friendly hotels.
Day 2: Andermatt – Stelvio Pass – South Tyrol
Distance: 300 km
Riding time: 5h55
Leave Andermatt towards the Oberalp Pass (2046 m) and immediately enjoy the first hairpins of the day. Continue towards Chur.
The main road is not the most exciting, so a quieter alternative via Innertobel and Obersaxen is preferred.
After Chur, head north briefly to bypass the Plessur massif, then turn southeast shortly before Davos to cross Switzerland’s only national park.
Cross the Flüela Pass (2389 m) and the Ofenpass (Pass dal Fuorn – 2149 m). From Santa Maria, head south towards the iconic Stelvio Pass.
Please note: part of the road is unpaved. Ride carefully and at low speed.
After crossing the Stelvio Pass and its famous series of hairpins, you may stop at one of the hotels on the road to Merano or continue to this charming South Tyrolean town.
Day 3: South Tyrol – Dolomites
Distance: 190 km
Riding time: 3h50
Departure from Merano heading north through two valleys of South Tyrol, both German- and Italian-speaking.
Cross the Jaufen Pass (Passo di Monte Giovo – 2094 m), then near Vipiteno turn south towards the Passo di Pennes (2214 m) before descending to Bolzano.
From Bolzano, enter the Dolomites, offering spectacular landscapes with jagged peaks, steep cliffs and wild forests.
You may choose your accommodation freely to explore the region at your own pace. The Dolomites are beautiful both in summer and winter.
The final kilometers to Corvara-in-Badia are particularly stunning.
Day 4: Dolomites Loop Ride
Distance: 212 km
Riding time: 3h49
This day offers a loop of just over 200 km through the heart of the Dolomites, returning to Corvara-in-Badia. You can therefore leave your luggage at the hotel.
You could easily spend several days in this region exploring additional roads or enjoying hiking and sightseeing. Roads further east towards Tolmezzo are generally less interesting for motorcycling.
Day 5: Dolomites – St. Moritz
Distance: 291 km
Riding time: 4h49
Head back towards Bolzano, crossing several Dolomite passes such as Passo di Gardena (2137 m) and Passo di Sella (2244 m).
After Bolzano, cross the Passo della Mendola, featuring excellent asphalt and distant views of the Dolomites. The descent passes through vast apple orchards.
Continue via the Passo del Tonale (1883 m), then the Passo di Foppa (Mortirolo Pass – 1852 m). Warning: the descent is narrow and steep and requires good low-speed control.
Cross the Bernina Pass (2330 m) towards St. Moritz, where you can stay overnight.
Day 6: St. Moritz – Furka Pass – Oberwald
Distance: 275 km
Riding time: 5h35
Leave St. Moritz via the Julier Pass (2284 m), a dream road for motorcyclists with wide curves, perfect asphalt and breathtaking scenery.
Skirt Italy from the north via the San Bernardino Pass (2065 m), then descend into Ticino before climbing the legendary Gotthard Pass (2108 m). Note: part of the road is cobbled and can be slippery.
Continue with the Furka Pass (2431 m), offering dramatic views of cliffs and sharp alpine peaks.
Overnight in Oberwald, where several hotels are accustomed to welcoming motorcyclists.
Day 7: Oberwald – Annemasse
Distance: 231 km
Riding time: 4h32
Head southwest following the Rhône Valley towards Martigny, then turn north near Monthey to cross the Morgins Pass and the Abondance Valley.
Return to Annemasse via Bons-en-Chablais.
Updated: 10/10/2012
Road books are provided for information purposes only. Conditions may change. Riders are responsible for checking weather and road conditions and ensuring their own riding ability.
All traffic regulations must be respected. Moto-Plaisir cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damages resulting from the use of these itineraries.
