Switzerland's new 240-mile cycle route 1291 offers touring cyclists a low-carbon way to explore the country's alpine landscape. The route wraps around the heart of old Switzerland, encompassing three founding cantons of Unterwalden (now Obwalden and Nidwalden), Uri, and Schwyz, as well as Lucerne, according to the Swiss government.
The route starts in Lucerne and features spectacular alpine views alongside pastoral backcountry. Switzerland's infrastructure supports cycling tourism, with relatively few cars and smooth road surfaces throughout the country. The Swiss government has launched multiple new cycle routes in recent years as part of broader cycling tourism development.
The route is named after 1291, Switzerland's founding year. Route 1291 joins other cycling infrastructure the Swiss government has promoted for touring cyclists seeking low-carbon holiday options. The landscape along the route includes opportunities to sample local cheese and wine from the regions traversed.
E-bikes enable cyclists to tackle Switzerland's varied terrain and contours more easily. The route's design makes it accessible to riders of different fitness levels who use electric assistance.