There’s a special kind of anticipation that comes with cycling in the Swiss Alps. The snow melts, the rivers roar back to life, and soon the legendary mountain passes — Furka, Grimsel, Susten, Nufenen, Oberalp — are ready to welcome cyclists once again. But before you start planning your dream ride, one important question needs answering: are the passes open?

At Swiss Cycology Tours, we get asked this all the time. And with good reason — these high-altitude roads are the heart of Swiss cycling. Knowing when they open helps us plan safely and make the most of your trip. The good news is that checking the status of every major pass in Switzerland is easy, thanks to one excellent website:

• Alpen-Pässe.ch

A cyclist’s best friend: Alpen-Pässe.ch

Switzerland is known for its precision, and Alpen-Pässe.ch is a perfect example of that. This official, regularly updated site lists every major alpine pass — whether it’s open, closed, or due to reopen soon — along with key details such as altitude, current weather, and snow or maintenance updates.

The site uses a simple, colour-coded map to make it quick and intuitive to use. Green means the pass is open, red means it’s closed, and orange means partially restricted. You can even click on each pass to view photos, elevation profiles, and specific notes from road authorities.

For us at Swiss Cycology Tours, Alpen-Pässe is an essential daily tool throughout the cycling season. We use it to track opening dates, monitor real-time updates, and adapt our routes whenever conditions change. This level of local awareness is one of the big advantages of booking with us — because we’re based full-time in Andermatt, we always know what’s happening on the roads.

When does the cycling season start in Switzerland?

Switzerland’s road cycling season typically runs from late May to early October, but the exact timing depends on altitude, snowfall, and spring temperatures. The Alps may look dramatic from a distance, but they’re surprisingly well-managed and predictable. Here’s what you can expect as the season unfolds:

• May to June — the awakening: By late May, lower passes like Oberalp (2,046m) or Lukmanier (1,915m) often begin to open, while higher climbs such as Furka (2,429m) or Nufenen (2,478m) tend to follow in June. This period is a magical time to ride — the air feels freshly washed, and the roads are quiet. You might still see snow walls stacked high at the side of the road, but don’t worry — the Swiss authorities only open passes once they are completely safe.

• July to August — the high season: By midsummer, nearly every major pass is open, and Andermatt becomes a true cyclist’s playground. The long days and stable weather make this the perfect time to tackle multiple climbs in one ride. These months are ideal for big days in the saddle, with consistent temperatures and reliable road conditions.

• September to early October — the golden season: As summer fades, the Alps enter what many locals call the “golden season.” The air is cooler, the light softer, and the colours richer. With fewer tourists around, it’s a peaceful and deeply rewarding time to ride. The passes remain open well into October, depending on the weather, and the experience of cresting a summit under crisp autumn skies is unforgettable. It’s a great time for riders who prefer quieter roads and slightly cooler temperatures — a more reflective end to the season.

Why being based in Andermatt makes all the difference

At Swiss Cycology Tours, we’re based 100% in Andermatt throughout the entire cycling season. This gives us a unique advantage — we’re right in the middle of the action. When conditions change, we know about it immediately. If a pass suddenly closes due to weather or maintenance, we can quickly adapt your route, recommend an alternative, or even reschedule the ride for better conditions. It’s this flexibility that makes our tours so stress-free and enjoyable.

Many cycling tour companies move location each night, but that can mean packing, transferring hotels, and riding regardless of the conditions. Our model is different — by staying based in Andermatt, you get to ride where the weather and your legs are happiest. It also means that we can offer truly concierge-level support. Whether you need help setting up your bike, finding a rental, getting a mechanical fix, or simply want some local advice on which pass to climb next, our team is right there in person.

Safety first: Switzerland’s approach to mountain roads

One thing you can always count on in Switzerland is safety. The mountain passes here are only opened once road crews have confirmed they’re clear of snow and stable for traffic. It’s common to see impressive snowbanks still lining the roadside in early summer, but that’s just visual drama — the surface itself will be spotless, dry, and smooth. For riders, that’s incredibly reassuring. You can enjoy the thrill of high-mountain cycling without worrying about dangerous conditions or unpredictable closures. And if anything does change suddenly, our team in Andermatt can adjust your ride plan instantly.

Why every part of the season is special

Every phase of the Swiss cycling season offers its own unique rewards:

• Late spring brings crisp air, quiet roads, and the excitement of seeing the mountains open up after winter.

• Summer offers long days, full access to all the iconic passes, and the buzz of the cycling community coming alive.

• Autumn delivers golden light, cool mornings, and a deep sense of tranquility.

No matter when you visit, the riding in and around Andermatt is spectacular — both visually and physically. The landscapes shift constantly, and each climb feels different depending on the time of year. At Swiss Cycology Tours, we believe that’s part of the magic. It’s not just about conquering climbs — it’s about immersing yourself in the rhythm of the mountains and experiencing the Alps as they truly are.

Staying flexible, staying local

Because we’re based in Andermatt for the entire cycling season, we can respond immediately to changes in the weather or pass openings. If conditions shift, we can alter your ride plan on the spot, recommend the best route for the day, or simply take the stress out of decision-making.

That local presence also allows us to offer extra support services — such as van assistance, mechanical help, nutrition stops, and personalised ride guidance — all designed to make your cycling adventure seamless and safe. When you book with Swiss Cycology Tours, you’re not just signing up for a route — you’re joining a team that lives and breathes these mountains.

In summary

Riding in the Swiss Alps is an experience like no other, and knowing when the mountain passes are open is a vital part of planning it. Thankfully, with Alpen-Pässe.ch it’s easy to stay informed and up to date.

From May to October, the Andermatt region offers a constantly changing but always incredible cycling experience — from snow-tipped climbs in spring to golden descents in autumn. And with Swiss Cycology Tours based in Andermatt all season long, you’ll always have expert local support, flexible route options, and total peace of mind.

Because in the end, that’s what great cycling is all about — freedom, flow, and knowing that every climb leads somewhere unforgettable.

Ready to ride? Switzerland is calling — and we can’t wait to show you around.

Author: Lee Hewett