10. Flüelapass
Our 10th climb of Christmas is the Flüelapass that links Davos with the Engadine valley in far eastern Switzerland. Some people might be tempted to say that the best thing about Davos is the Flüelapass that takes you out of town, but I wouldn’t be so mean.
It is safe to say that when you’re on this climb the memories of the town are left behind, as you quickly climb out through the forest into the rocky surrounds of the ski slopes. The climb from Davos is almost 13 km long at an average gradient of 6.4%. It is a lovely climb, peaceful and never too steep. There are two lovely lakes at the summit, along with a really nice refuge / restaurant.
The climb from the town of Susch in the Engadine valley is slightly more challenging – 13.1 km at 7.3%. But equally peaceful (unless you hit it on a holiday), and feels even more remote.
What doesn’t change is the altitude. At 2383 metres, this is a high mountain road, so make sure you’re in shape and well equipped in case the weather changes.
11. Passo Fedaia
Your 11th climb of Christmas is probably one of the toughest in the Dolomites. We took on the Fedaia during the Dolomite Discovery tour back in August, and I was happy to be in the van and taking photos for this one. The raw stats don’t do it justice. 12.8 km at 7.8% doesn’t sound at all bad does it?
However, the first 7km from Caprile average only 6%. Then for the final 6km the road never dips below 9% and is mostly well above 10%, maxing out at 18%. There are stunning hairpins taking the road up into the shadow of the mighty Marmolada glacier, and for such an amazing road, the traffic can be very light.
I wasn’t sure if our riders were smiling or grimacing as they passed me on some of the steepest slopes, but they were all happy on reaching the top where the road flattens as it passes the glacial lake.
Get in touch if you fancy coming to try the Fedaia – I hope this post hasn’t put you off …
12. Sunrise Furkapass
Our 12th climb of Christmas is one to get out of bed (early) for. I’d been doing a lot of driving for our Swiss Alps discovery tour and my body was telling me to get out and ride my bike. That translated into me waking very early one morning and deciding to seize the day. I jumped on the bike at 4:56am and headed out with my lights shining bright. I was very dark as I left Andermatt and I was loving the silence of the early morning. The only disturbance to my clam state was the sight of a large deer running across the fields just below the road. It leapt over fences and seemed to be enjoying the morning just as much as I was.
The road up to Realp brightened as the morning progressed, and I decided to simply ride in the moment and enjoy this privileged ride. I’ve ridden the Furka quite a few times now but this was really something else. Being able to see the mountains wake up as the sun started hitting the higher peaks was a real joy. I think only 3 cars passed me on the entire 11.5 km climb.
I think the photos speak for themselves. Have a great new year all and hope to see you on the road.
