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Cycling routes

Salgesch-Leukerbad – Valais Cycling Tour

From Salgesch to Varen, the route climbs gently across vineyards and through a spectacular passage carved into the rock before ascending in regular intervals to Leukerbad.

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The climb begins in Salgesch village centre, ascending gradually through vineyards and taking in a few hairpin bends to reach Varen. From there, turn left and follow the slope as it steepens and picks up altitude above Pfynwald forest and the Rhône river. Further along, the spectacular stretch of road carved into the rock face enters a narrower section and climbs in regular intervals until reaching the main road between Leuk and Leukerbad. The road, which is broad and free of any significant gradients, then crosses the village of Inden, gradually offering up a breathtaking view of the Gemmi massif and the cliffs surrounding Leukerbad. The final part of the climb isn’t too demanding, and takes you up to 1,400 metres in altitude to the centre of the thermal resort of Leukerbad.

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Turn-by-turn directions

From the centre of the village of Salgesch to Varen, the road climbs gradually through the vineyards. After turning left as you leave the village of Varen, the slope becomes steeper and picks up altitude above Pfynwald forest. Keep pedalling as you pass through a spectacular passage carved into the rock, then continue as the route narrows. After passing Rumeling, turn left and follow the road as it climbs in regular increments. Pass through the village of Inden before finishing your climb on a gentler slope that leads to Leukerbad. As you arrive in Leukerbad, continue straight ahead at the first roundabout to reach the village centre and the end of the route.

Start: Salgesch, Kirchstrasse (582 m)
Destination: Leukerbad, Kuparkstrasse (1380 m)

Author's recommendation

The route crosses some spectacular cliffs above Varen. It’s the perfect place to take a photo to remember the climb!

Technical information

  • Altitude

    1380 m 582 m

  • Ascent

    799 m

  • Descent

    0 m

  • Technique

    Bewertung: 4.0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Stamina

    Bewertung: 4.0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Experience

    Bewertung: 6 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Landscape

    Bewertung: 6.0 von 5.0 Punkten

Best time of year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
  • Multi-stage route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Faunistic highlights
  • Disability access
  • Summit route
  • One-way route
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Cultural/historical value
  • Botanical highlights
  • Cableway ascent/descent

Public transport

To reach the starting point in Salgesch, take the funicular, PostBus or bus from Sierre or Visp.

Approach

Motorway exit A9 to Sierre-Est, then follow the cantonal road to Salgesch village centre.

Parking

This tour is the second stage of the Valais Cycling Tour, which takes place over several stages. The starting and finishing points are in different locations. We therefore advise you to travel to the starting point using public transport. To do this, we recommend using the SBB car park in Sierre (Plaine Bellevue) or Leuk. There is also parking available in Leukerbad and Susten. Please follow the local parking instructions.

Equipment

We recommend: bike in excellent working order, helmet, gloves and bell, clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof), food and drink.

Safety information

Strictly respect the Swiss traffic rules. Please note that you are running the tour at your own risk and all liability is refused. Please be considerate to plants and animals. For your own safety, wear an helmet every time you ride a bike. Emergency numbers: 144 Ambulance / 117 Police / 1414 Helicopter Rescue (Rega).

Additional information

Further information:

Literature

The tourist office in Sierre and Leukerbad have brochures and information material about road cycling in the region.

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25,000: 1287 Sierre, 1267 Gemmi