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A hike a bike packing trip trough Switzerland
Embarking on a four-day gravel bikepacking adventure through the breathtaking Swiss Alps, Hannah and I were prepared for an unforgettable journey.
During this year's Three Peaks Bike Race, an interesting connection unfolded where Hannah and me met for the first time.
She completed the race a day before I did (9days), and by the time I arrived, she had already arranged for a hotel room, which we ended up sharing for the next three days. Spending time together, we quickly realized that we had a lot in common and got along well. This natural compatibility led us to decide on taking another trip together.
As we ventured into Switzerland, the memories of the race were still fresh for me. It had been just four weeks since I finished, and my hands were still numb from the exertion. Hannah, on the other hand, had returned from Barcelona just a week and a half ago. What made her return journey unique was that she had ridden her bike all the way from Barcelona to Innsbruck.
Our stories converged in an intriguing way, united by our shared love for cycling and the unique experiences we had gathered along the way.
Our starting point in Scuol set the stage for a thrilling ride, leading us through stunning landscapes as we aimed to the alpine wonderland. The route promised to stretch over 700 kilometers, showcasing the best of what Graubünden and the surrounding Nationalparks had to offer.
Hannah’s Bike
BMC URS with a Sram Force set up.
38 in the front, 52 in the back (wich turned out to be the best choice for this kind of trip)
As we embarked on the trail, we quickly realized that our journey had other plans for us. The allure of the Swiss Alps came with a twist - the challenge of navigating rugged trails that demanded more than just pedaling prowess. The anticipated loop's hiking and bike-carrying sections proved more daunting than expected, forcing us to reconsider our original ambitions.
Our 700-kilometer and 18000 meter of altitude gain dream condensed into a 360-kilometer with still 9500 meter of climbing reality, a ride that tested our mettle and strengthened our bond as adventure companions. The idea of a seamless loop through the Alps was replaced with the reality of pushing our bikes uphill and forging ahead through uncharted territories. Yet, every moment was a testament to our resilience and determination.
Stephan’s Bike
Kocmo Daytona X with a Shimano GRX 810 setup.
40 - 46 was the smallest gear with a wolf tooth goat link (wich turned out to be not the perfect set up for this trip) ;)
The journey, though altered, was far from disappointing. The rewards of our perseverance lay in the panoramic views and the shared laughter over the unexpected turns our adventure took. Our wheels might have encountered gravel, mud, and even rocky paths, but the memories we created overshadowed any initial setbacks.
Comfy rest
As the nights unfolded, we experienced the beauty of simplicity firsthand. Our sleep was accompanied by the expansive night sky, revealing a myriad of stars in all their splendor. A peaceful reminder of the vastness of the world around us.
When it came to our gear, we opted for a straightforward approach, favoring the lightweight aspects of bike packing, almost resembling the equipment used in racing. Our setup included essentials like a sleeping bag, a bivy and a compact mattress, along with a few extra items of clothing—though we made sure not to overburden ourselves. This minimalistic approach aligned perfectly with our adventure.
If you're eyeing a loop in this Swiss paradise, brace yourself for the unexpected. The trails might lead you off the bike and into a world of hiking, regardless of your bike's capabilities. But don't let that deter you. Our unconventional route choice gifted us with a fresh perspective and an unparalleled connection to the landscape.
As we concluded our journey back in Scuol, a sense of accomplishment washed over us. Our four-day, 360-kilometer escapade stood as a tribute to the spirit of adventure, adaptability, and the sheer joy of exploring.
However, our journey didn't conclude there. Complicated parking logistics prompted us to leave the car in Ftan, which entailed a 400-meter ascent from Scuol. Consequently, even after our most demanding and strenuous day, an additional climb remained in store for us.
Sometimes, it's the unplanned detours that etch the most vivid memories, and our journey through the Swiss Alps was proof positive of that.
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