Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Basel
Upon arrival into Zurich International airport, take a train to Basel (own expense). Take over your rented bicycle which will be your transportation for the next 6 days. After checking into your hotel, the day is free at leisure.
Day 2 Basel – Aarau
Basel, Liestal and the Ergolztal: a bustling mix of city and towns. In contrast: tranquility and charming countryside in the Basel side of the Jura Monutains. Saddle through Aargau’s Jurapark hills, followed by a racy descent down the southern Jura slopes to Aarau.
Cycling Distance: 55 KM
Day 3 Aarau – Luzern
From Aarau, the way leads you to the idyllic Suhrental river valley; with views of the Alps spotted south and Jura chain north. Through rich orchards and fertile fields alongside Lake Sempach, this stage finally takes you to Lucerne.
Cycling Distance: 55 KM
Day 4 Luzern – Amsteg
Lake Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s largest and most beautiful lakes. It has many routes linking the Mittelland and Alps. When the Föhn wind blows, the lake reveals its wild side ! The Urnerland with breathtaking pass roads and the emerald green Lake of Uri.
Cycling Distance: 50 KM
Day 5 Amsteg – Gotthardpass
The cycling continues through the canton of Uri where the wild Reuss plunges down through the Schöllenenschlucht (gorge), subdued only by sheer mountain walls and the Teufelsbrücke (Devil’s Bridge). Whether by horse, by train by car or bicycle, everyone will want and still want to cross the Gotthard southwards.
Cycling Distance: 30 KM
Day 6 Gotthardpass – Bellinzona
The Leventina has been a transit corridor since ancient times. The further south, the milder the climate. An easy ride along the waters of the Ticino, soon passing chestnut trees and vineyards. Bellinzona, called <La Turrita> because of its many castles.
Cycling Distance: 80 KM
Day 7 Bellinzone – Lugano
Cycle to Cadenazzo and take the train up to Rivera Bironico (own expense). From Monte Ceneri, a clear view of the Piano di Magadino vegetable fields and Lago Maggiore. Lago di Lugano s’ picture-postcard beauty marks the end of this cycling trip.
Cycling Distance: 70 KM
Day 8 Depart Lugano or Extend Your Stay
Choose to sleep in or simply rest and relax until check out. Leave your bicycle at the hotel.
Inclusions
~ 7 nights in desired accommodation with breakfast;
~ 24-speed bicycle with 26” tyres, v-brakes, lights and hub dynamo on day 2 to day 7;
~ luggage transfer on day 2 – day 7;
~ ship crossing from Beckenried – Flüelen (bicycle included);
~ detailed tour documentation (1 set per room);
~ elaborated route description;
~ GPS – data available;
~ service hotline.
Exclusions
~ air travel;
~ train to Basel;
~ public transportation transfers (Göschenen – Andermatt, Cadenazzo – Rivera-Bironico);
~ cycling helmet;
~ personal travel insurance;
~ expenditure of personal effects;
~ tourism tax at each accommodation check in;
~ anything not specified in the itinerary.
Important Notes
~ this trip is self-guided.
~ a 20% deposit will be collected at the time of booking. Full payment will be collected 2 months prior to departure.
~ Should you require a visa to enter Switzerland, it is your responsibility to obtain such document before departure.
~ A Tourism Tax costing CHF 3 to CHF 5 per cyclist per night may be levied and cyclists required to pay this tax in cash at each accommodation each day upon check in.
~ Options to upgrade to E-bike is available on this itinerary with a supplement. Rental of trailer or tag-along is also available with a supplement.
~ Cyclist(s) is/are allowed to bring their own bicycle(s). Travel Wander and its European Partner cannot be held responsible for breakdown of cyclist’s own bicycle. In the event of a breakdown which results in trip not being completed, Travel Wander and its European Partner shall not be liable to refund any trip cost. Travel Wander and its European Partner will do their best to help the client to the next hotel or back to the start location. Any cost incurred shall be the responsibility of the cyclist.
~ Every effort is made to ensure the trip and included experiences take place during the ideal time or period of the year, however certain sights are subject to weather conditions and seasonal variations that are not within the control of Travel Wander and the Co-ordinator. Although you may get to see and/or experience, we cannot guarantee the sightings.
~ Provision of meals during the trip showcases local authenticity, cuisine and food culture of the places we are visiting. All food allergies and dietary restrictions must be disclosed to Travel Wander at the time of booking. We will use reasonable efforts to accommodate special requirements or requests but this is not always possible given the nature of the destinations visited and availability of options. We cannot guarantee that dietary needs or restrictions can be accommodated. Travel Wander is not liable for failure to accommodate or fulfil such requests. Meal supplementary charges may be imposed to meet your dietary needs.
~ Trip grading is an indication of the difficulty of the activities included. Preparation and engaging in regular exercise to maintain good physical condition and active lifestyle prior to the trip will be most beneficial in ensuring you have full enjoyment of the trip. We are glad to discuss your concerns and answer your queries.
~ Our utmost priority is always the safety of the cyclists. Therefore inclusion of the itinerary may be altered due to (not limited to) bad weather, local conditions, accommodation book out, the skill levels of the cyclists and/or other unexpected circumstances beyond our control. We reserve the right to make changes necessary and there will be no refund should you decide to discontinue with the trip.
~ Because cycling requires a certain level of cardio and stamina exertion, it is not suitable for cyclists with chronic and/or acute disease. Please consider your physical condition before booking. Cyclists must ensure they are medically and physically able to cycle.
~ If cyclist presents difficulty in completing the ride of the day, we strongly discourage the cyclist from continuing for the day with top priority on the safety of the cyclist (and travel companions) in mind. The cyclist can fast track to the next accommodation making use of public transportation (where available) or booking private transfer at cyclist’s own expense. Cyclists can use mobile applications such as Google Search, Google Map, etc. to source for fast-track options.
~ Cyclist may choose to terminate the ride early during any time of the planned cycling day or make it a rest day, and fast track to the next accommodation by making use of public transportation (where available) or booking private transfer at cyclist’s own expense. Should the cyclist wish to partake in other activities or sightseeing on the rest day, it will be at the cyclist’s own expense. Cyclists can use mobile applications such as Google Search, Google Map, etc. to source for fast-track options.
~ There is no refund for uncompleted cycling distances or missed inclusions.
~ Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. See HERE for details.
~ By making a payment to Travel Wander LLP, you (and on behalf of the rest of travelling companions) acknowledge that you have read, understood and agree to Travel Wander’s Booking Conditions and Other Important Information: Cancellation and Amendment, Modes of Payment, Privacy Policy, Indemnity Policy, and Terms & Conditions.
