River lines and castle contours gravel round

Simple

19.9 km

1:10 h

86 mhd

Technique

Fitness

Highest Point 698 m

Lowest Point 616 m

Best Season

Jan

Feb

Mär

Apr

Mai

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Okt

Nov

Dez

Details

Description

This varied gravel bike tour starts in Thusis and initially crosses several bridges over the Hinterrhein. Shortly after the start, the Silserbrüggli as well as other suspension and wooden bridges provide impressive perspectives on the river and the surrounding landscape.

After crossing the bridges, the route follows quiet paths towards Domleschg. With increasing distance, the valley's cultural landscapes open up, and the view repeatedly focuses on Ortenstein Castle, one of the region's most distinctive buildings. A viewpoint along the route offers a particularly beautiful view of the castle and the surrounding mountain scenery.

Further along, the tour follows a peaceful section along the Hinterrhein, which impresses with well-drivable paths and a natural setting. The landscape closes with the entrance to the Viamala Gorge, where the impressive gorge landscape announces itself.

The return trip follows the same or a slightly varied route back to the starting point in Thusis. Thanks to the moderate length and well-developed paths, the tour is ideal for gravel bikers with good basic fitness who are looking for a compact, scenically diverse round trip.

Hidden Gem

Silserbrüggli suspension bridge
Several suspension and wooden bridges over the Hinterrhein
Ortenstein Castle and viewpoint
Path section along the Hinterrhein

Safety Note

The route runs mostly on paved paths as well as on short sections of public roads. Accordingly, increased attention is required on shared paths and crossings. Especially on the suspension and wooden bridges, careful riding is necessary as they can be slippery when wet.

In the area of the Hinterrhein and at the entrance to the Viamala Gorge, shaded sections can be damp or cool. After rain, reduced traction on gravel and scree sections is to be expected. Riding style should be adapted to the current weather and path conditions.

Wearing a helmet is highly recommended.

Equipment

Gravel bike or trekking bike
Helmet highly recommended
Weather-appropriate clothing
Enough drinking water
Small snacks for on the go
Optional: gloves and sun or rain protection

Directions

Start in Thusis. The route initially crosses the Silserbrüggli and then another suspension bridge as well as several wooden bridges over the Hinterrhein. This section runs mostly on paved paths with short, flat transitions.

After about 9.8 km, the Ortenstein Castle area is reached. Here the route runs on quiet paths and side roads with a slight ascent. A short detour or viewpoint offers views of the castle and the Domleschg.

Further on, the route follows a section along the Hinterrhein (from about 11.9 km), mostly on gravel and scree surfaces. The route is clear and technically easy.

After about 18.9 km, the entrance to the Viamala Gorge is reached. The route remains well-developed here as well, with short changes between asphalt and loose surface.

The return trip takes the same or a parallel route back to Thusis, without additional technical difficulties.