Alpine Quad No. 2: Susten - Grimsel - Nufenen - Gotthard

The route starts with the Susten Pass, one of the most harmonious Alpine passes for road cyclists. The consistent gradient of about 7.5% allows a pleasant warm-up, even though the climb extends over 17 km. At the top, the view of the Stein Glacier rewards the effort. The descent to Innertkirchen is fast, with wide curves that allow high speeds. From there, the long climb to Grimsel Pass begins, impressing with reservoirs and barren high mountain landscape. The gradient varies between 5 and 9%, with the last hairpin bends demanding extra strength and concentration. The surface is excellent, making both the ascent and the descent to Ulrichen a pleasure. At 2,478 m above sea level, the Nufenen Pass is the highest point of the route and one of the toughest passes in Switzerland. Ramps of up to 13% demand everything, often accompanied by wind. The descent into Ticino is steep and fast – good braking technique is mandatory here. Finally, the historic Tremola awaits on the Gotthard Pass: cobblestones, tight hairpins, and alpine nostalgia. Anyone who arrives here feels history and looks forward to the well-deserved descent back to Andermatt.