Motorcycle Touring in the Alps with Columbus Motorcycle Tours
For motorcyclists around the world, touring the Alps is the ultimate bucket-list experience. Stretching across France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, and Germany, the Alps offer some of the most breathtaking mountain roads on Earth — a dream playground of twisting switchbacks, glacier views, and charming alpine villages.
Whether you’re carving through the Stelvio Pass, exploring Austria’s Grossglockner High Alpine Road, or cruising along France’s Route des Grandes Alpes, motorcycle touring in the Alps promises pure riding bliss.
Top Motorcycle Routes in the Alps
1. Stelvio Pass (Italy)
The legendary Passo dello Stelvio sits at 2,757 meters and features 48 hairpin bends that challenge even the most seasoned riders. The panoramic views, cool mountain air, and sense of achievement at the summit café make this Italy’s most iconic motorbike route.
Tip: Ride early in the morning to avoid tourist traffic and cyclists.
Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Austria)
Austria’s premier alpine road offers 48 kilometers of smooth tarmac, 36 curves, and unmatched views of the country’s tallest peak, the Grossglockner (3,798 m).
- Entry fee: €35 per motorcycle (2025 rate)
- Season: Early May – Late October
Route des Grandes Alpes (France)
Running from Lake Geneva to the French Riviera, this 700 km route crosses 16 high mountain passes. From the Col de l’Iseran to Col du Galibier, it’s a dream ride blending snow-capped summits with Mediterranean warmth.
Best time to go: June to September for optimal road conditions and open passes.
Swiss Alps Andermatt Loop (Grimsel, Furka Nufenen, Tremola & Susten Passes)
Switzerland offers precision-engineered roads and jaw-dropping scenery. The Grimsel–Furka–Susten triangle makes a perfect one-day loop with tight turns, alpine lakes, and views made famous by James Bond’s Goldfinger.
Tip: Swiss roads are immaculate but speed limits are strict — respect them!
Best Time for a Motorcycle Tour in the Alps
The Alps touring season generally runs from June to September, depending on altitude and snowfall.
- June–July: Lush valleys, mild weather, and open passes
- August: Peak tourist season — great atmosphere but busier roads
- September: Quieter roads, golden autumn light, and cooler temperatures
Always check road closures before departure, as high passes can be closed due to snow even in summer.
What to Pack for an Alpine Motorcycle Trip
Riding in the Alps means rapidly changing weather, so preparation is key:
- ✅ Waterproof riding gear and gloves
- ✅ Heated grips or thermal base layers
- ✅ GPS or offline maps (signal can drop in valleys)
- ✅ Compact toolkit and tire repair kit
- ✅ Local currency (some mountain huts are cash-only)
Pro Tips for Riding the Alps
- Plan short daily distances. Alpine roads are demanding — 250 km can take all day.
- Refuel often. Gas stations can be sparse in remote valleys.
- Respect local rules. Noise restrictions and speed limits are strictly enforced.
- Stay flexible. Weather can change quickly; always have a Plan B route.
- Enjoy the culture. Stop for espresso in Italy, schnitzel in Austria, and fondue in Switzerland!
Conclusion: The Ride of a Lifetime
Motorcycle touring in the Alps combines technical riding, majestic scenery, and European charm into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with a group, every twist and turn offers a new thrill — and a new postcard view.
So gear up, plan your tour route, and get ready to conquer Europe’s greatest motorcycling playground, all waiting for you with Columbus Motorcycle Tours.