Road cycling tour from Schlins to Dünser Älpele

This challenging road cycling tour leads from Schlins through Röns, Düns and Dünserberg to Dünser Älpele. The long climb demands a very good level of fitness but rewards cyclists with sweeping views across the Walgau and the surrounding mountains. The Benediktskapelle, the Dünserberg transmitter and Dünser Älpele add variety along the route.

The tour starts at the Schlins Rönsberg bus stop. The route climbs steadily towards Röns along Rönsbergstraße L74 before continuing onto Jagdbergstraße L54. Mostly surfaced roads and the peaceful Walgau countryside characterise the first part of the route.

Amid open meadows, the route turns right towards Düns. It follows the L73 through the village and continues to Dünserberg. As the road gains height, sweeping views open up across the Walgau and towards the surrounding mountain ranges.

At the Dünserberg Futsch bus stop, the route branches off uphill. It passes the listed Benediktskapelle and continues past Restaurant Dünserberg. At the next junction, follow the hairpin bend to the left before continuing straight through the hamlet of Boden.

The road continues uphill past isolated farms and small settlements. The final section to Dünser Älpele requires a further sustained effort. At the top, cyclists can stop for refreshments and take a break while enjoying the mountain panorama. The prominent Dünserberg transmitter stands nearby.

The return journey follows the same route. The long descent leads back to the starting point in Schlins via Dünserberg, Düns and Röns.

We recommend travelling to the starting point by public transport. Bus service 550 connects Schlins-Beschling railway station with the Schlins Rönsberg bus stop and several other stops along the route.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start/finish: Schlins Rönsberg

Bus stop at the turnaround point: Dünserberg Älpele

Railway station: Schlins-Beschling railway station, then take bus service 550 to Schlins Rönsberg

Carriage of bicycles depends on the vehicle used and the space available. Check the current conditions before travelling.

Plan your journey here: www.vmobil.at

By car

Take the A14 Rheintal/Walgau motorway to the Nenzing exit, then follow the regional road to Schlins. From the village centre, Rönsbergstraße L74 leads to the starting point at the Schlins Rönsberg bus stop.

A valid motorway vignette is required when travelling via the motorway.

Parking

Parking is available at Schlins-Beschling railway station, Gewerbestraße 1. From there, the starting point can be reached by bicycle via Schlins. Check the parking regulations displayed on site and any applicable charges before leaving your vehicle.

The car park at the Schlins fire station must not be used and must be kept clear for the emergency services.

For this road cycling tour, we recommend the following equipment: a cycle helmet, a cycling backpack if required, comfortable shoes or cycling shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather, sun and rain protection, a bicycle pump, a spare inner tube or puncture repair kit, bicycle tools, food and sufficient drinking water, a first-aid kit and a mobile phone.

Given the long, steep climbs, a bicycle with suitable gearing is recommended. If using an e-bike, check the battery range in advance.

The route follows public regional and mountain roads. Motorised traffic and agricultural and forestry vehicles may be encountered at any time.

The long climb requires a very good level of fitness. On the return journey, extended and sometimes winding descents lead back to Schlins. Adjust your speed to visibility, the course of the road and the weather conditions. Check the brakes and tyres before beginning the descent.

Check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. Snow, ice, wet surfaces, fog or sharply fluctuating temperatures can quickly change conditions at higher elevations.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

112 European emergency number
140 Mountain rescue
144 Ambulance service

Refreshments and rest stops:

Refreshments are available at Dünser Älpele, the highest point of the tour. Check opening hours and closing days in advance. Further places to stop for refreshments can be found in Düns and Dünserberg.

Places of interest:

The Benediktskapelle in the hamlet of Bischa is a listed building. The prominent Dünserberg transmitter is also located near Dünser Älpele.

Suitability:

The tour is suitable for road cyclists with a high level of fitness. Due to the considerable ascent, steep sections and long descent, it is not suitable for families with young children.

Shortening the route:

There are several stops served by bus service 550 along the route, including Düns Gemeindeamt, Dünserberg Futsch, Dünserberg Boden and Dünserberg Älpele. Anyone wishing to end the tour early should check the bus connection and whether bicycles can be carried in advance.