Grand Alps Tour CGA2501
Today is the day again. The Grand Alps Tour starts. 14 guests arrive today and set off tomorrow to explore the Alps at length. We are looking forward to it
We were expecting the worst rain but were pleasantly surprised. Apart from a few short showers, we had a very nice first riding day
The day begins by the wild Inn River – its rushing waters already hinting at the adventure ahead. Soon, the road winds its way up toward the Flüela Pass. At the summit, we take a short break with a hot chocolate – surrounded by alpine silence and a breathtaking mountain panorama. The descent leads us through the Prättigau and onward toward Lake Walen, where the road twists spectacularly between cliffs and water – a true highlight for anyone who loves winding routes. After lunch, we continue our ride through the Glarus region, heading for the Klausen Pass. The ascent is pure riding pleasure – with sweeping views and tight switchbacks. After a brief stop at the top, we descend into Altdorf, passing the famous William Tell monument. Following the Reuss River, we travel through a narrow, scenic gorge until we reach Andermatt in the early evening. A day full of variety – rich in nature, history, and the sheer joy of the ride.
Today is our first rest day in Andermatt in Switzerland. The weather looks very good in the morning. There's no stopping us, everyone wants to get going and is looking forward to the Swiss passes. So we set off. First the Tremolla, then the Nufen Pass. Then the Grimsel and Susten passes. With big grins on our faces, we round off the great day with a cheese fondue.
We begin our day with a drive over two spectacular Alpine passes: the famous Furka Pass, known from James Bond films, and the Grimsel Pass. At over 2,400 meters above sea level, we breathe in the crisp morning air and take in the breathtaking views. Back down in the valley, we follow the shores of Lake Brienz toward Interlaken, where cozy cafés and tempting chocolate shops invite us to linger. This traditional holiday destination is located near one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain ranges: the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. The Eiger’s notorious north face, in particular, has challenged countless climbers over the years. Soon, Lake Thun comes into view, and shortly after, we arrive in the picturesque town of Thun. After snapping plenty of photos and enjoying a delicious lunch, we continue our journey through the peaceful countryside. Two smaller mountain passes later, we reach Martigny, not far from the French border. With just one pass behind us and one more ahead, we soon arrive at our final destination: Chamonix.
Today we're going from Andermatt to Briancon. The weather is getting better and better and the mood rises with the height of the passes. Today we take on the 5th highest Alpine pass. The Col de Galibier rewards us with its breathtaking views.
At the point where the Durance and Guil rivers meet lies the small, historic town of Mont-Dauphin in the Hautes-Alpes region. Even on the approach, you're treated to a breathtaking view of the Queyras Valley canyon — a true highlight for anyone who enjoys the journey as much as the destination. Mont-Dauphin isn’t just about the scenery; it also boasts a rich history. In the 17th century, a full fortress complex was built here under the direction of the famous military engineer Vauban. In 2008, Fort Mont-Dauphin was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites — and rightfully so. After a short break, we continued our ride up to the Col d’Izoard. At 2,360 meters, it’s one of the high Alpine passes that’s only open during the summer months. Once you reach the top, you quickly understand why: the barren, rocky landscape looks almost otherworldly. There’s hardly any vegetation and certainly no shade — a brutal challenge for cyclists in the Tour de France. Thankfully, we were on our motorcycles. With the wind in our faces, stunning views all around, and the quiet vastness of the mountains, this stretch was one of the most memorable parts of the day. At the summit, we made a quick stop, took a deep breath — and of course, snapped a few photos before moving on.
Today we travel from Briancon to Aosta. We cross the highest Alpine pass, the Col de Iseran, which is over 9,000 feet high. We reach our hotel in perfect weather. The lunch stop at Mount Cenis was magnificent and of course we also stopped at the small Bernadino Pass.
The day begins with the majestic peaks of the Aosta Valley still surrounding us – a reminder of the grandeur we’re leaving behind. But today isn’t about elevation or legendary mountain climbs. Today, it’s all about the experience of the ride itself. We're venturing deep into Italy’s breathtaking countryside. At first, the gently undulating hills on the northern fringe of the Po Valley might not seem particularly impressive. It’s hard to believe there are real roads threading through this landscape. But the moment we turn onto one of those narrow, effortlessly winding lanes, everything changes. We enter a hidden network of tarmac seemingly designed for motorcycles – a two-wheeled paradise. With tree canopies casting dappled light across the road, it’s a pure thrill to glide from one curve to the next, the bike moving in perfect harmony with the terrain. No Italian journey would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. A velvety cappuccino, a slice of pizza fresh from a wood-fired oven, or a scoop of handcrafted gelato – simple yet unforgettable moments that elevate the ride. The day ends with one final treat: a short ferry crossing over the sparkling waters of Lake Maggiore. It’s a scene worth savoring. And as the sun dips below the horizon, we cross back into Switzerland and arrive in Lugano – our resting place for the night.
It's getting warmer by the day and today we set off from Lake Lugano back up into the mountains to Livigno in perfect conditions. A few more passes and breathtaking views await us on the way.
Today’s route takes us over four mountain passes – one world-famous, another a hidden gem. The Stelvio Pass is a must for every motorcyclist – a legendary road you simply have to ride at least once in your lifetime. While the Passo di Gavia is less well known, it’s equally breathtaking and absolutely worth the journey. Before we reach the high mountains, we first pass through the Munt La Schera Tunnel, which quickly brings us into Switzerland. There, the Ofen Pass offers a perfect warm-up for the climbs ahead. After a coffee break in Glurns – the smallest town in Italy – we head toward the base of the northern ascent of the Stelvio. And in case you've forgotten how many hairpin bends lie ahead, the sign at the first curve will remind you: 48! At the summit, we’re rewarded with panoramic views, a bustling mix of fellow riders and tourists – and of course, Bruno’s famous sausages. Then it’s time to tackle the southern descent. After 39 more bends, we’re back down in the valley – but not for long, because the next climb begins almost immediately. The Gavia Pass is only slightly lower than the Stelvio but far less crowded – and its scenery is just as spectacular. What follows may not be as dramatic, but it’s still a pleasure to ride. We cruise smoothly through the apple orchards and arrive in Bolzano in the late afternoon – tired, but happy.
Today we enter the Dolomites with the best weather conditions. Quite busy today on the Sella Joch, but no suprise with this view up here. We return home with a happy grin on our faces and enjoy our great hotel a little longer
This route leads us straight into the very heart of the Dolomites – a dream come true for anyone who craves winding roads and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas. The day begins gently, gliding along the scenic byways around Bolzano, framed by sun-soaked orchards and charming vineyards. Before long, both the pace and the landscape shift dramatically. Towering peaks, rugged cliffs, and sheer rock faces create the perfect backdrop for a rider’s playground – a ribbon of endless bends and tight hairpins that demand focus and reward skill. Here is where the true joy of riding takes hold. By afternoon, we reach the pinnacle of the day’s journey: the legendary Grossglockner High Alpine Road. Our path carries us toward Austria’s tallest mountain – the imposing Grossglockner at 3,798 meters – along one of Europe’s most spectacular alpine routes. Built between 1930 and 1935 by roughly 3,000 workers, this engineering marvel rises to 2,504 meters. And for those eager to push higher, a short detour leads to the Edelweißspitze at 2,577 meters – the highest point a motorcycle can reach. A day overflowing with everything we live for: thrilling roads, unforgettable scenery, and the pure, unfiltered bliss of two-wheeled adventure.
Today we start on our last driving day. After 14 days of fantastic roads, passes, landscapes, delicious food and many experiences. our trip goes from Kaprun over the Gerlos Pass to the fantastic Zillertaler Höhenstrasse. In autumn the cows are brought from the mountain to the valley.