Two countries. Two steep climbs. 57 kilometers of Alps.

Two mountain passes, two countries, one challenging road cycling route

57 kilometers might sound manageable at first. But this loop quickly shows you that kilometers alone don't tell you much about a road bike tour. On the Sudelfeld loop starting in Bayrischzell, you'll accumulate around 930 meters of elevation gain , cross the state border twice, and experience everything from steep climbs to long descents – everything that makes for a truly great day on a road bike.

The ride starts right at your base camp, the Explorer Hotel Bayrischzell . There's not much time to warm up, as the road soon leads you up towards the Sudelfeld. Curve by curve, you gain altitude, gradually leaving Bayrischzell behind. Instead of a warm-up, you'll be treated to a mountain panorama, and the route makes it clear from the very beginning where you're headed.

Once you reach the top, you'll head towards Tatzelwurm on the other side of the mountain. Now it's time to lose that altitude. The road winds its way down into the Inn Valley, offering a fast, twisty descent that demands concentration.

From Kiefersfelden, you'll cycle towards Tyrol and cross the border into Austria. Your legs will get a brief chance to recover on the way to Kufstein – because the next climb is already waiting. From Kufstein, the route climbs back into the mountains. The route leads over the Marblinger Höhe towards Thiersee . Here, it's time to put the pedal to the metal again. At Thiersee, a quick glance to the side is definitely worthwhile before you continue towards Landl.

The Ursprung Pass finally brings you back to Bavaria. And this time, crossing the border feels pretty good: the big climbs are behind you, and the relaxed finale of the loop lies ahead. You roll mostly downhill through the Ursprung Valley back towards Bayrischzell.

And if your legs still crave more? Then you can add a few extra meters of elevation gain with the climb towards the Speck-Alm .