Aare River, from the Swiss Alps to the Rhine
Switzerland Bike Tours
Biking on Switzerland’s famous cycle route number 8
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length5–8 days
- Prices fromCHF 954 Rates
Overview
The Aare Route, also known as national route number 8, is Switzerland’s first fully signposted long-distance bicycle route.
This itinerary gives you an excellent idea of the variety of landscapes that characterize Switzerland. The starting point lies in the midst of the Bernese Alps – but don’t panic! The action of the Aare river over millions of years has made this trail manageable for even the average cyclist.
The bike trail winds its way pleasantly through woods and meadows, along fertile fields, and through isolated villages where the charm of the countryside and the old way of life will enchant you. The beauty of Switzerland is on full display! Choose between various itineraries to suit every type of traveler.
Highlights
- Lakes formed by the Aare – Lake Thun, Lake Wohlen, and Lake Brienz
- The capital city of Bern
- The many small towns and villages of the Swiss Alps
- The Rhine River
- "Ambassadorial City" of Solothurn
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Itinerary
8-day: From Grimselpass to Bad Zurzach
Day 1: Arrival in Grimselpass
Day 2: Grimselpass - Iseltwald, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 3: Iseltwald - Bern, 46 mi. (75 km)
Day 4: Bern - Biel, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 5: Biel - Solothurn, 18. mi. (30 km)
Day 6: Solothurn - Aarau, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 7: Aarau - Bad Zurzach, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 8: Departure from Bad ZurzachDay 1: Arrival at Grimselpass
Welcome to Switzerland! There is no better place to start this incredible bike tour than in Grimselpass, an imposing dam surrounded by a mountain world of rock and ice. Jaw-dropping panoramas await around every corner. This is the source of the Aare River, the longest river in the country, your guide for the next several days.Day 2: Grimselpass - Iseltwald, 31 mi. (50 km) | Ascent +405m/Descent -1,975m
You'll start with a steep descent into the Aare valley before reaching Meiringen. Here you can visit the Sherlock Holmes museum and stroll around this typical town. Be sure to try some meringue, as Meiringen is believed to be the birthplace of this tasty treat. At the shore of the Lake of Brienz, there is another hill to conquer before reaching Iseltwald, your destination of the day.Day 3: Iseltwald - Bern, 46 mi. (75 km) | Ascent +620m/Descent -690m
Cycling the quiet shores of Lake Brienz, you will soon reach Lake Thun and the town of Interlaken nestled in between. Interlaken is a hub for adventure seekers who come from all over to explore the Alps. The dominant peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are a constant presence. You will continue by boat to Thun, the gateway to the Bernese Oberland. You'll continue in the wide Aare Valley until reaching Bern, the capital of Switzerland.Day 4: Bern - Biel, 31 mi. (50 km) | Ascent +470m/Descent -580m
From Bern, you'll pass Lake Wohlen, a birding paradise. The river will lead you into the Seeland and then to Lake Biel. The town of Biel-Bienne, where you'll hear German and French spoken equally, is a famous watch-making center. Most are familiar with the prestige and precision of Swiss-made watches, and Biel is where you'll find the headquarters for the most prominent brands.Day 5: Biel - Solothurn, 18. mi. (30 km) | Ascent +90m/Descent -95m
Today's route is short so you have enough time to spend in the old town or on the lake at the beach. Solothurn is the capital of the canton of the same name and is considered to be Switzerland's most beautiful Baroque town. The number eleven has particular significance here: there are 11 churches and chapels, 11 fountains, 11 towers, and 11 steps. Be sure to stop in any of the numerous riverfront cafes to try the tasty sweet: Solothurner Torte.Day 6: Solothurn - Aarau, 37 mi. (60 km) | Ascent +330m/Descent -445m
The River Aare, which has increased considerably in size, is what shapes the landscape in this region. Villages, fields, and a magnificent castle accompany you on your way to Aarau, which still bears features dating back to the 16th century from when the town was once the capital of the Helvetic Republic. Walk through the town - and keep looking up! This town is famous for its lovely gables.Day 7: Aarau - Bad Zurzach, 31 mi. (50 km) | Ascent +335m/Descent -375m
Finally, you will arrive at where the Aare meets the Rhine river in Koblenz, Switzerland. Hugging the border of Germany, you will pass gabled houses, wetlands, and wildlife. Soon you arrive to the spa town Bad Zurzach. Consider booking an extra night in this Swiss village, to have time to relax in the thermal baths after your bike tour.Day 8: Bad Zurzach departure
This incredible bike tour comes to an end in Bad Zurzach.7-day: From Interlaken to Bad Zurzach
Day 1: Arrival in Interlaken
Day 2: Boat ride to Thun, Thun - Bern, 28 mi. (45km)
Day 3: Bern - Biel, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 4: Biel - Solothurn, 18 mi. (30 km)
Day 5: Solothurn - Aarau, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 6: Aarau - Bad Zurzach, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 7: Departure from Bad ZurzachDay 1: Arrival in Interlaken
Welcome to the adventure capital of Switzerland! Surrounded by the Bernese Alps and situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this small city is as scenic as they come. If you arrive early, be sure to take in the views from Harder Kulm or enjoy a boat ride on Lake Thun.Day 2: Boat ride to Thun, Thun - Bern, 28 mi. (45km) | Ascent +500m/Descent -565m
Your ride begins in the wide Aaretal (Aare Valley). You'll pass large villages, open fields, & lush meadows, all while being accompanied by the powerful river Aare. Soon you arrive in the capital of Swizterland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Bern. The Bern Cathedral with its towering viewing platform, the impressive Houses of Parliament (Bundeshaus) just a stone's throw from the train station, & the elevated rose garden are just a few of the highlights that await you in this city.Day 3: Bern - Biel, 31 mi. (50 km) | Ascent +470m/Descent -580m
From Bern, you'll pass Lake Wohlen, a birding paradise. The river will lead you into the Seeland and then to Lake Biel. The town of Biel-Bienne, where you'll hear German and French spoken equally, is a famous watch-making center. Most are familiar with the prestige and precision of Swiss-made watches, and Biel is where you'll find the headquarters for the most prominent brands.Day 4: Biel - Solothurn, 18 mi. (30 km) | Ascent +90m/Descent -95m
Today's route is short so you have enough time to spend in the old town or on the lake at the beach. Solothurn is the capital of the canton of the same name and is considered Switzerland's most beautiful Baroque town. The number eleven has particular significance here: 11 churches and chapels, 11 fountains, 11 towers, and 11 steps. Be sure to stop in any of the numerous riverfront cafes to try the tasty sweet Solothurner Torte.Day 5: Solothurn - Aarau, 37 mi. (60 km) | Ascent +330m/Descent -445m
The River Aare, which has increased considerably in size, is what shapes the landscape in this region. Villages, fields, and a magnificent castle accompany you on your way to Aarau, which still bears features dating back to the 16th century from when the town was once the capital of the Helvetic Republic. Walk through the town - and keep looking up! This town is famous for its lovely gables.Day 6: Aarau - Bad Zurzach, 31 mi. (50 km) | Ascent +335m/Descent -375m
The River Aare, which has increased considerably in size, is what shapes the landscape in this region. Villages, fields, and a magnificent castle accompany you on your way to Aarau, which still bears features dating back to the 16th century from when the town was once the capital of the Helvetic Republic. Walk through the town - and keep looking up! This town is famous for its lovely gables.Day 7: Departure from Bad Zurzach
Your tour comes to an end! Consider extra nights in Bad Zurzach or Interlaken!Day 1: Arrival to Bern
Day 2: Bern - Biel, 31 mi. (50 km) | Ascent +470m/Descent -580m
Day 3: Biel - Solothurn, 18. mi. (30 km) | Ascent +90m/Descent -95m
Day 4: Solothurn - Aarau, 37 mi. (60 km) | Ascent +330m/Descent -445m
Day 5: Departure from AarauLooking for a different flavor? Check out our entire list of European bike tours or view all featured tours, news, and specials.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
This bike tour features two levels of accommodation.
For the itineraries starting in Grimselpass and Bern:
Category A: 3 and 4-star hotels
Category B: 3-star hotels
For the itinerary starting in Interlaken:
Category A: 4-star hotels
Category B: 3 & 4-star hotelsBicycles
Electric Bike
E-Bike Flyer C-series
- Aluminium frame
- Gearshift:
- built 2021: Shimano Nexus 8-speed hub gears
- built 2022: Shimano Nexus 5-speed hub gears
- Magura HS22 (hydraulisch) rim brakes
- SR Suntour NEX, 63mm suspension fork
- Panasonic 36V/250W mid-engine
- Panasonic Li-Ion-Mangan 15Ah/36V (540Wh) Battery
- Operating distance: max. 100 km
- 28" (size XS: 26") wheel size
- Weight limit 330lbs
- Front and rear mudguards
- Lights and hub dynamo
- Luggage rack
- Chain guard
- Frame lock
- Side stand
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations for the tour & category selected
- Breakfasts
- Daily luggage transfers, 2 pieces per person weighing no more than 20 kg (discount available if traveling with only 1 piece)
- 27-Speed Tour de Suisse Touring Bike, with 1 saddle bag, service kit, air pump, & bike lock
- Boat ride Interlaken - Thun
- Carefully elaborated route descriptions
- Travel documents (1 x per room)
- Navigation app and GPS data
- 1 year SwitzerlandMobility Plus subscription
- Subsidy for arrival by train
- Service hotline
What’s Not Included
- Remaining meals
- Helmets (free of charge but must be reserved in advance!)
- Tourist tax, if applicable (to be paid at each hotel)
- Travel Insurance
- Bike Protection
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Grimselpass to Bad Zurzach
Arrival possible daily from June 15 to September 29, 2024
From Interlaken to Bad Zurzach
Arrival possible daily from March 30 to October 13, 2024
Bern to Aarau
Arrival possible daily from March 30 to October 13, 2024
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024
8-day: Grimselpass to Bad Zurzach
Season 1: September 14 to September 29, 2024
Season 2: June 15 to September 13, 2024Category A Category B Season 1 CHF 1789 CHF 1705 Season 2 CHF 1859 CHF 1759 Single supplement CHF 435 CHF 305 7-day: Interlaken to Bad Zurzach
Season 1: April 6 to April 26 | September 28 to October 13, 2024
Season 2: March 30 to April 5 | April 27 to September 27, 2024Category A Category B Season 1 CHF 1560 CHF 1424 Season 2 CHF 1614 CHF 1484 Single supplement CHF 439 CHF 249 5-day: Bern to Aarau
Season 1: April 6 to April 26 | September 28 to October 13, 2024
Season 2: March 30 to April 5 | April 27 to September 27, 2024Category A Category B Season 1 CHF 1030 CHF 954 Season 2 CHF 1074 CHF 994 Single supplement CHF 279 CHF 205 Extra Options
Electric bike rental
Grimselpass to Bad Zurzach CHF 141 Interlaken to Bad Zurzach CHF 130 Bern to Aarau CHF 109 Extra nights
Cat. A Cat. B Grimselpass double/twin CHF 145 CHF 145 Single supplement CHF 60 CHF 60 Bern double/twin CHF 115 CHF 109 Single supplement CHF 70 CHF 45 Aarau double/twin CHF 125 CHF 115 Single supplement CHF 60 CHF 40 Interlaken CHF 129 CHF 99 Single supplement CHF 75 CHF 45 Bad Zurzach double/twin CHF 129 CHF 119 Single supplement CHF 55 CHF 10 Discounts
When traveling with only one (1) suitcase, the following discounts apply per person:
Grimselpass to Bad Zurzach CHF 210 Interlaken to Bad Zurzach CHF 175 Bern to Aarau CHF 105 Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate
This self-guided bike tour is rated moderate. The route is perfectly signposted and takes place mostly on trails far from car traffic. Some of the route takes place on “natural” or dirt paths, but most is asphalted. While this tour is predominately flat, there are stages with steep uphills. You’ll find the elevation gain/loss in the day-to-day itinerary.
Airport Info
Fly to Bern International Airport (BRN) or Zurich (ZRH)
Local Travel
Train travel in Switzerland is safe, convenient, & efficient! The SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) offers a CHF 10.00 discount on the ticket price for anyone participating in a hiking or biking tour. The reduction can be obtained on the SBB website or on the SBB App when you buy your ticket.
Climate
This area of Switzerland has a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. June to August is the peak season for tourism as temperatures are quite pleasant. The Aare River is a popular spot in summer as locals and tourists swim and raft.
Day of Rest
The stages of this itinerary can be shortened or bypassed entirely via train. Certain train cars are designated for passengers with bicycles.
Remarks
It is possible to add an extra night before, after, or during your tour.
Important to know
Travel Documents
Each traveler must ensure that you comply with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
US citizens: A good website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and entry into other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU and EU residents: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and your destination country or countries.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.Tour Operator
This tour is run by EuroTrek.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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