Mountain bike route to Schwägalp

After starting at the Nesslau-Neu St. Johann train station, you quickly gain altitude on a little-trafficked paved road. After the first 300 meters of elevation gain, the character of the route changes completely: after a short descent on a field path, the route turns onto a narrow singletrail. Its steep entrance poses a real challenge even for e-mountain bikers. Soon the trail leads, although narrow, without technical difficulties along the edge of the slope. After a few minutes, you reach another narrow paved alpine road where you can steadily gain altitude. On the finally gravelled road, after 750 meters of elevation gain at the Risipass (1459 m), you reach the highest point of the route. From here, there is a great view over the rock faces of the Säntis massif. Looking back gives a great view of the Speer.

From here, the Alp farm Leser can be reached in a few minutes on a gravel alpine road – a beautiful and very scenic place for a break. A pause is worthwhile here – however, the hut, being powered only by solar power, does not offer the possibility to charge an e-bike.

The following descent is technically demanding and offers a short but steep and stony section. A treat for experienced mountain bikers – others overcome this spot by pushing down for a few minutes. Shortly after, the alpine meadows of the Lutertannen area are reached. From here, a very wide, paved alpine road makes its way over the high valley upwards towards Schwägalp. The road was built by the Swiss military and is part of a military training area. Information signs at the beginning of the road provide details about possible military activities but also warn against unexploded ordnance.

Thanks to the good road condition, the last 300 meters of the ascent to Schwägalp are completed quickly. At the top, the restaurant at the valley station of the Säntis cable car offers the opportunity for a stop and charging of e-bikes.

On the return journey, you first follow the Schwägalp pass road for about eight kilometers, which is sometimes busy with vehicles, motorcycles, and road cyclists. At the valley exit, the bike route finally turns left onto a gravel road that connects to the alpine roads above Nesslau. Over these, the starting point of the route is soon reached after a short descent.

E-bike charging option:

Valley station Säntis-Bahn Schwägalp

Note(s)
The routes are signposted only in the direction recommended by bikers.
Bike rental is possible at Velo Köbi in Nesslau by appointment.
Alp farms / mountain restaurants may not be open daily. Check before the tour.

Alp Leser: Tel: +41 (0)71 994 21 26
Schwägalp pass height: Tel: +41 (0)71 364 12 43