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 The Alps; BIG, breathtaking mountains...the image is instant and definite. Mention Switzerland, and there is no hesitation in the flow of images: towering
mountains, high alpine meadows, deep blue lakes reflecting the snow covered peaks beyond. It has been said that Switzerland’s primary natural resource is the powerful attraction of her stunning landscape, the largest portion of which is
the Alps. Here countless lakes and rivers find their source and mark their course in deep valleys and precipitous gorges at the feet of more than 100 magnificent peaks over 4000m
high.
Our bicycle tour will take in some of the
world’s most incredible views; the breathtaking and inspiring panorama of the
Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger in the Bernese Alps, as well as the Matterhorn and Mont Rosa above
Zermatt. We’ll challenge ourselves on the well-known climbs of
the Stelvio and Gavia passes in Italy, the Furka, Bernina, San Bernardino, and countless more in Switzerland. We’ll find ourselves cycling on perfect roads: thrilling switchbacked climbs and descents, meandering
forest paths, winding lakeside roads, quiet roads wandering through green meadows; this will be constant scenic overload. Since childhood, this country has probably figured prominently in the travel dreams of many of us. Whether these
dreams conjure up scenes of majestic peaks, fields of nodding wildflowers, tidy flower-decked chalets, polished townscapes, the carillon of cowbells, or shelves of brightly-wrapped chocolates, Switzerland will never fail to exhilarate.
This is not a tour to challenge Switzerland’s extreme terrain, but it will be a challenge to one’s senses and emotions to fully absorb the beauty and grandness of her scenery, the warm hospitality of her citizens, and... the tempting
array of delicious and hearty foods served at mealtime. This tour is designed for single bikes, with most days having an intermediate route, as well as a long, challenging route. Patrik
Etschmayer, our Swiss guide from St. Gallen, has laid
out a wonderful route for us, using many of the scenic, awe-inspiring roads that he has ridden for years. He has also arranged lodging for us in unique, beautifully situated
2-4 star hotels. By the way, as Patrik says, the scenery
will be almost unbearable.
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