Road Cycling Loop from Damüls via Furkajoch and Faschinajoch

Two Alpine passes, the scenic uplands of the Walgau and the villages of the Großes Walsertal valley define this challenging road cycling loop from Damüls. From Furkajoch, a long descent leads through the Laternsertal valley towards the Rhine Valley. The route then continues through Übersaxen, Dünserberg and Schnifis along a varied upland course.

On the return journey through the Großes Walsertal valley, the long final climb via Fontanella to Faschinajoch awaits. At around 71 kilometres, with numerous climbs, some of them steep, the route calls for a very good level of fitness and confidence on winding mountain roads. In return, it offers striking contrasts between Alpine passes, wooded slopes and open valley and mountain landscapes.

The circular tour begins in the Kirchdorf area of Damüls. From the mountain village at an altitude of around 1,400 metres above sea level, the route initially climbs towards Furkajoch. A considerable amount of elevation is gained within the first few kilometres. Between the open mountain slopes and alpine pastures, views of the surrounding mountains unfold. After further climbs, the tour reaches its highest point at Furkajoch, at approximately 1,760 metres above sea level.

From Furkajoch, a long descent follows the winding mountain pass road into the Laternsertal valley. The route passes through the mountain landscape around Innerlaterns and continues downhill through Laterns. As the route loses elevation, wooded slopes, meadows and settlements gradually replace the open mountain pass scenery. In Laterns-Thal, St Nicholas’ Parish Church is located close to the route. The long descents, which are steep in places, require full concentration and controlled speed.

The circular tour then continues via Suldis and Batschuns in the municipality of Zwischenwasser towards the Rhine Valley. In Batschuns, St John the Baptist’s Parish Church and the contemporary-designed mortuary chapel (Totenkapelle) are located close to the route. Shortly afterwards, the tour passes the Mariahilf Chapel. The historic Batschunser Schlössle is also nearby and is an interesting example of the region’s architectural heritage when viewed from the outside. Here, the terrain descends to the lower elevations on the edge of the Rhine Valley.

Near Rankweil, another significant climb begins. Following Übersaxner Straße, the route gains considerable elevation over just a few kilometres. The hillsides offer views across the Rhine Valley and towards the Walgau region. The route reaches Übersaxen, home to St Bartholomew’s Parish Church.

From Übersaxen, the tour follows Walgau-Höhenstraße through the Dünserberg area towards Düns. Close to the route are St Wolfgang’s Chapel on Dünserberg and St Anthony the Abbot’s Parish Church in the village of Düns. This is followed by a descent, steep in places, towards Schnifis.

From Schnifis, the route climbs again towards Thüringerberg, marking the transition into the Großes Walsertal valley. Continuing via St Gerold and Blons to Sonntag, shorter climbs and descents alternate along the way. The Großes Walsertal is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, combining traditional settlements with a diverse range of natural habitats and landscapes.

Around Sonntag, the final long climb begins, leading via Fontanella to Faschina. With so much elevation already gained, this ascent presents a particular physical challenge. The road climbs steadily over several kilometres, while the valley gradually opens up below. At Faschinajoch, at an altitude of almost 1,500 metres, the second mountain pass of the tour is reached. The landscape once again takes on a more alpine character, with mountain slopes and alpine meadows.

From Faschinajoch, the final section leads back to Damüls. After a descent, a few gentle changes in elevation remain before the circular tour finishes in the Kirchdorf area. The route brings together Furkajoch, the Rhine Valley, the hills of the Walgau region and the Großes Walsertal valley in a varied and challenging cycling tour. It is also possible to join the circular route at other suitable, easily accessible points along the way.

The circular tour starts and finishes in the Kirchdorf area of Damüls.

By public transport

Bus stop at the start/finish: Damüls Kirchdorf, served among other services by bus route 570 via the Großes Walsertal valley and route 851 from Au in the Bregenzerwald.

Train station at the start/finish: There is no railway station in Damüls; the nearest station is Bludenz. From there, continue by bus, changing services as necessary towards the Großes Walsertal valley and Damüls.

Travelling by train and bus allows you to start the route without searching for a parking space.

Plan your journey at vmobil.at

By car

Damüls can be reached via Au in the Bregenzerwald or via Thüringen and the Großes Walsertal valley. In Damüls, follow the road into the Kirchdorf village centre. Check road conditions and possible mountain road closures before setting off.

Parking

The recommended option is Kirchdorf car park, beside the municipal buildings in the centre of Damüls, close to the starting point. Please observe local parking rules and time restrictions.

A road bike in good working order, with suitable low gears for mountain climbs and reliable brakes, is recommended. Essential items also include a cycle helmet, clothing suitable for the weather, windproof and waterproof layers, and enough water and food for the longer ascents. A spare inner tube or repair kit, pump and charged mobile phone are also advisable. Extra warm clothing is useful for the descents.

The tour follows public roads, including some narrow, winding mountain and pass roads. Motor traffic and oncoming vehicles must be expected, particularly on tight bends. Long, steep descents require appropriate speed, forward planning and reliable braking control. The lengthy climbs also call for a realistic assessment of personal fitness.

At higher elevations, wind, rain, fog and low temperatures can change conditions quickly. Furkajoch is subject to a seasonal winter closure; check whether the pass is open and whether there are any other road closures or roadworks before starting. Traffic regulations must be observed and consideration shown to other road users.

Dining options

Damüls and the villages along the route offer opportunities to stop for refreshments, including in the Laternsertal valley, the Walgau and the Großes Walsertal valley. Opening times and closing days should be checked in advance. For this long mountain ride, it is advisable to carry additional food and sufficient drinks.

Further information

Furkajoch and Faschinajoch are the two defining mountain passes of the circuit. Between them, the viewpoints and upland scenery around Übersaxen and Dünserberg provide a contrast to the valleys. The Großes Walsertal is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with a distinctive, long-established cultural landscape. Those with enough time may also wish to make a cultural stop at the Provostry of St. Gerold.