Demanding but rewarding circular route with a pushing section! Due to renovation work, the route is closed until further notice.
Demanding MTB routes with difficult sections that require both good fitness and riding skills. Steep sections uphill and downhill are to be expected. The focus is on endurance and technical biking on scenic alpine routes.
Appropriate equipment such as breathable clothing and weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, bicycle helmet, gloves, sunglasses, and a GPS device or map material. For bike tours without refreshment options, sufficient provisions are necessary.
The technically and physically extremely demanding tour starts in Sautens and initially leads gently through the village. But after just two kilometers, the asphalt ends – and from here on, there’s no turning back. A steep, energy-sapping forest road winds its way up into the Bärental in countless challenging switchbacks through dense woodland. The climb demands endurance, strength, and precise riding technique.
The endless hairpin turns burn in your legs – and already hint that the descent will require maximum concentration as well. After a short flat section, you reach the so-called Braggefleck, where the bike depot is located (don’t forget your lock!). The final 300 vertical meters to the Bärental Hut are not rideable and must be tackled on foot, carrying or pushing your bike – steep, sweaty, and alpine in character. Back at the bike, the route continues straight on through the “Rinne.” In this rough section, pushing is once again unavoidable; sure-footedness and strength are essential. Only then does the demanding descent toward Haderlehn begin, requiring full focus and confident bike handling. Finally, you roll back through Sautens to the starting point – exhausted, but with the satisfaction of having mastered a true challenge.
Conclusion:
A relentlessly demanding tour for highly skilled riders with excellent fitness and solid alpine experience.
Travel comfortably and safely by train to the Ötztal train station. The terminus or exit point is the ÖTZTAL train station. Afterwards, travel conveniently and quickly with public transport or local taxi companies through the entire valley to your desired destination! The current bus schedule is available at: http://fahrplan.vvt.at
The following parking options are available in Sautens:
