Road cycling circuit from Bludenz via Raggal, Garsella and St Gerold

This moderately difficult road cycling circuit leads from Bludenz through Nüziders and Ludesch into the Großes Walsertal. Two longer climbs link Raggal with Garsella, Blons and St Gerold before the panoramic return via Thüringerberg and Thüringen. Mountain villages, the deeply incised Lutz river and wide views across the Walgau and Großes Walsertal characterise the route.

The road cycling circuit begins at Herz Mariä parish church in Bludenz. From Sonnenbergstraße, the route first descends through the urban area towards Nüziders. After a few kilometres, it reaches the floor of the Walgau valley and heads west through the largely open landscape between Nüziders and Ludesch.

The first longer climb begins in Ludesch. The road steadily gains height on the slopes above the Walgau and leads to Raggal. With every metre of elevation, the views across the Walgau and towards the surrounding mountains become wider. The Walser village occupies a sunny hillside terrace at the entrance to the Großes Walsertal.

From Raggal, the route follows the mountain road further into the valley. Woodland, meadows and open viewpoints alternate above the deeply incised Lutz river. The road then descends markedly to the valley floor at Garsella. Crossing the Lutz marks the lowest point between the circuit’s two major climbs.

The second longer climb starts on the opposite side of the valley. The route climbs through Blons to St Gerold. Small Walser villages, traditional cultural landscapes and views into the Großes Walsertal characterise this section. In St Gerold, the historic Provostry of St Gerold provides an important cultural highlight directly beside the route.

From St Gerold, the route follows the panoramic high-level road westwards. It leads out of the valley via Thüringerberg along sunny slopes above the Lutz. A longer descent then continues to Thüringen, again opening up wide views across the Walgau and towards the mountain ranges opposite.

Back on the valley floor, the route becomes flatter. It heads east via Ludesch and Nüziders to Bludenz. The final climb to Herz Mariä parish church completes the circuit.

The tour starts and finishes at Herz Mariä parish church, Sonnenbergstraße 14, 6700 Bludenz.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start/finish: Bludenz Fatimakirche. The stop is close to the starting point and is served by Bludenz town buses.

Train station at the start/finish: Bludenz railway station. From there, the starting point is a short cycle ride away.

Journey planning: vmobil.at

By car

Take the A14 to the Bludenz-Bürs exit, then follow the signs towards Bludenz town centre and Sonnenbergstraße.

Parking

The public Parkgarage Zentrum at Zürcherstraße 6 is a secure parking option close to the starting point. Please observe the current signs and conditions on site.

For this road cycling tour, we recommend a cycle helmet, weather-appropriate cycling clothing, sun and rain protection, sufficient water and food, a small first-aid kit, a fully charged mobile phone, a spare inner tube, a pump and tools for minor repairs. A roadworthy road bike with reliable brakes and gearing suitable for longer climbs is required.

The tour runs mainly on public roads. Motor traffic, particularly on the valley and access roads, should be expected at all times. Ride with foresight and observe the road traffic regulations.

The longer climbs and sometimes steep descents require good fitness, confident cornering skills and reliable brakes. Always adapt your speed to visibility, traffic and road conditions.

In wet conditions, shaded woodland sections and road markings can be slippery. Check the weather, road conditions, roadworks and possible closures before setting off.

Emergency number: 112

Use of the route is at your own risk.

Refreshments and rest stops

Refreshment options are available in Bludenz, Ludesch, Raggal, Blons, St Gerold, Thüringerberg and Thüringen. Check opening times before setting off.

Places of interest

The Walser villages of Raggal, Blons and St Gerold, the cultural landscape of the Großes Walsertal and the Provostry of St Gerold provide scenic and cultural variety.

Suitability

This moderately difficult circuit is suitable for experienced road cyclists with good fitness. It includes two longer climbs, fast descents and around 720 metres of ascent.

Surface

The route runs mainly on asphalt roads and is suitable for road bikes.

Best time of year

May to September in snow- and ice-free conditions.