switzerland
Why travel through Switzerland?
A journey through Switzerland follows the rhythm of mountain bends, changing elevations and panoramas revealed beyond every pass. From Lake Geneva, the road reaches Interlaken and the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz before climbing towards the Furka, Grimsel and Gotthard passes. Further south, Ticino introduces a Mediterranean atmosphere, while Gruyères and the Alpine villages reveal a more traditional side of Switzerland. Planet Ride integrates these landscapes into major motorcycle journeys designed by European road experts, with balanced stages and enough time to appreciate the lakes, glacial valleys and distinct cultures found across the country.
<div>Our selection of trips : Switzerland</div>
Find inspiration and co-create your itinerary with a local expert
Why is Switzerland a paradise for road trips?
Switzerland brings together an exceptional concentration of mountain passes, lakes and valleys within a compact territory. The roads change character quickly: a peaceful lakeshore leads into a technical climb before opening onto a high-altitude panorama. This concentration makes a motorcycle journey through Switzerland particularly intense.
- Lake Geneva marks the western gateway to the Swiss Alps.
- Gruyères combines medieval heritage, countryside and the first mountain roads.
- Interlaken and Lake Brienz offer turquoise waters framed by dramatic peaks.
- Furka, Grimsel and Gotthard create a remarkable sequence of Alpine passes.
- Ticino reveals Italian-speaking Switzerland and its more southerly atmosphere.
Furka, Grimsel and Gotthard: three names riders dream about
Switzerland’s great passes are about more than altitude. Grimsel crosses a mineral landscape dotted with reservoirs and mountain lakes. Furka unfolds its bends before glacial scenery, while Gotthard recalls the historic routes connecting the northern and southern sides of the Alps.
- Tight bends demand smooth, attentive riding.
- Temperatures can vary considerably between the valleys and summits.
- Viewpoints provide regular opportunities to stop and enjoy the landscape.
- Pass openings always depend on snow cover and current conditions.
The nine-day Alpine crossing links Lake Geneva, Interlaken, Furka, Grimsel and Gotthard with Lake Como, the Stelvio Pass and the Grossglockner. It covers approximately 1,600 kilometres through five Alpine countries.
From Lake Geneva to Europe’s great riding roads
Switzerland reveals its full character when placed at the heart of a major Alpine crossing. Beyond the Bernese Oberland, the road descends towards Lugano and Italy. Later, Lake Constance and the Rhine Falls accompany the return westwards. Switzerland therefore acts as a bridge between languages, cultures and mountain regions.
- To the west, Lake Geneva connects naturally with the French Alps.
- To the south, Ticino leads towards the Italian lakes and mountain passes.
- To the east, the route continues through Tyrol towards the Grossglockner.
- To the north, Lake Constance opens the road towards Bavaria and the Black Forest.
Which motorcycle tour should you choose in Switzerland?
Planet Ride’s current selection includes two guided journeys across the Alpine arc. Both enter Switzerland from Lake Geneva, reach Gruyères and Interlaken and cross the major Swiss passes before descending towards Italy.
The legendary roads of the Alps by motorcycle, designed by Rodolphe, offers ten days and approximately 1,700 kilometres through Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany and France. Eric’s Alpine crossing by the great mountain passes follows a concentrated nine-day format focused on Europe’s most celebrated Alpine roads.
- Choose the ten-day journey for a broader European crossing.
- Select the nine-day format for a concentrated sequence of iconic passes.
- Confidence on winding mountain roads is recommended for both journeys.
When is the best time to explore Switzerland?
The most favourable period for the major mountain passes generally runs from late spring to early autumn. However, access to Furka, Grimsel and Gotthard always depends on snow conditions. Even in summer, a bright day in the valley can become cold and wet at altitude.
- Check whether the passes are open shortly before each stage.
- Carry technical clothing suitable for changing temperatures.
- Follow local speed limits and road signs carefully.
- Leave time for viewpoints, villages and unplanned stops.
Why choose Planet Ride for a journey through Switzerland?
Rodolphe and Eric understand the structure of a successful Alpine crossing: the order of the passes, realistic distances and stages that allow riders to recover after demanding days. Planet Ride therefore treats Switzerland as the highlight of a European motorcycle journey rather than a simple transit country. Professional guidance, selected accommodation and a coherent itinerary make it possible to enjoy the roads while preserving time for the landscapes and regional cultures.
Installment payments with no fees
A team based in France
Trips insured by our Gritchen partner
A sustainable tourism player
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