Practical information

Pack your bags, take the train to your starting point, get on your e-bike and off you go! Use the following information to plan your trip along La Route Verte and discover its beautiful living landscapes.

On this website, you will find all the information you need to create your very own experience of La Route Verte: Pick a stage on the interactive map to see the itinerary and the various places of interest along the route (natural and cultural sights, hotels, restaurants, and so on…). You can download and print the descriptions of the stages under each stage and under “Downloads”. La Route Verte can also be booked as a package with our partner Eurotrek, who will take care of the details. You can find more information under Booking.

Here you will find lots of practical information to help you plan your trip. Please note that this information is not exhaustive and we recommend that you use the links we provide (e.g. brochure on bicycle tours – in French or German) to find out more.

Weather
Before you leave, always check the weather forecast: www.meteoswiss.admin.ch

Access / Transport
You can reach all the stages of La Route Verte by public transport. For information on transport connections, please visit www.sbb.ch.

The transport of bicycles on trains is possible but subject to a charge (full or half-fare card) and to certain conditions. Please find all information here.

Follow the signs
95% of La Route Verte follows Switzerland Mobility's “Cycling in Switzerland” itineraries. These are signposted by red signs with blue numbers (see here). Since La Route Verte switches from one itinerary to another, it is important to be attentive when cycling. For example, you can print out the stage descriptions before you leave home and follow their instructions. You can follow the itinerary using various media: either on our interactive map, by downloading the Swiss Parks app or the GPX-files for each stage (available on the stages’ page or under Downloads).

E-bike rental
Rent a Bike is our main partner for the rental of e-bikes. You will find all the rental stations along the route on the interactive map and in the stage descriptions. You can call the station in advance to find out exactly where it is located (the stations are sometimes poorly signposted or integrated into another counter). For all other stations and reservations, please visit www.rentabike.ch.

Riding an e-bike
Legislation: In Switzerland, riding an e-bike is only permitted from the age of 16 or, in the case of e-bikes up to 25 km/h, from the age of 14 if the person holds a category M driving licence. You can find further information here.

Charging your e-bike: If you want to recharge the battery of your electric bike, simply visit one of the many restaurants along the route. While you eat, the battery will charge and you can then be on your way - with a happy stomach and a full battery!

Safety: In order to travel safely, it is important to know and comply with the traffic regulations when riding a bicycle. However, e-bikes are much faster than normal bicycles, which is an additional danger. The Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (bfu) provides specific information on how to ride an e-bikes safely.

Bicycle equipment: Well-pumped tyres, two functioning brakes, reflectors and lights at the front (white) and rear (red) are mandatory equipment for bicycles. It is also important to carry out regular checks to ensure that the various elements are functioning properly.

Personal equipment: The main element for safe riding is the use of a helmet, which is not compulsory but highly recommended. Light clothing and equipment adapted to the weather are also important.

Adjustments and repairs: It is important to check your bike (brakes, tyres, saddle, ...) and adjust it correctly to your size - do not hesitate to ask for advice at the rental station or in a shop.

What to pack
For a day or a week, there are several things to consider when travelling by bike (see here, p.8):
- Small first-aid kit;
- Sun protection (sunglasses, sun cream) and insect repellent;
- rain and wind protection;
- Sufficient water and food;
- Bicycle repair kit (pump, patches + glue, tube, tyre lever set);
- Bicycle lock;
- Garbage bag (so that you don't throw garbage in nature!);
- Maps and/or guides.

In case of an accident
Ambulance: 144, police: 117, fire department: 118

Useful links
Pro Velo
Swiss Council for Accident Prevention
Velosuisse
Rent a Bike
SwitzerlandMobility – Switzerland by Bike

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We wish you an awesome trip along La Route Verte!