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Italy (Lombardy) · Switzerland (Graubünden)

Swiss Alps: Julier and Albula

Published on 25 September 2025

Distance
325 km
Calculated from the GPX track
Trip days
1
Difficulty
Easy
Route type
Loop
Elevation gain
+5,920 m
Elevation loss
−5,920 m
Highest point
2,314 m
Lowest point
197 m

The route

From Lake Como to the hairpins of the Maloja, Julier and Albula passes, by way of the Acquafraggia Falls and the Kissing Rocks: crystal-clear lakes, endless bends and iconic alpine passes.

Country and region
Italy (Lombardy) · Switzerland (Graubünden)
Road surface
Asphalt

Places and points of interest

  1. Lecco
  2. Chiavenna
  3. Cascate dell'Acquafraggia
  4. Passo del Maloja
  5. Silvaplana
  6. Passo del Julier
  7. Bivio
  8. Tiefencastel
  9. Bergün
  10. Laghetto di Palpuogna
  11. Passo dell'Albula
  12. St. Moritz

The story of the ride

A motorcycle itinerary through the Swiss Alps to remember forever: legendary roads and enchanting scenery among crystal-clear lakes, endless bends and iconic Alpine passes. From the shores of Lake Como to the hairpins of the Maloja, Julier and Albula passes, via gems such as the Acquafraggia waterfalls and Lake Palpuogna: nature, discovery and riding pleasure, the best a motorcyclist could wish for in Switzerland.

Acquafraggia waterfalls, above Chiavenna

The first stop is in Piuro, just above Chiavenna. The Acquafraggia waterfalls drop in a double cascade of more than 170 metres and were already mentioned by Leonardo da Vinci.

The power of the water and the setting of woods and rock walls make them a perfect stop, especially on hot days.

The Acquafraggia waterfalls in Piuro

Maloja Pass (1,815 m)

The Maloja Pass links the Val Bregaglia with the Engadine via an iconic road, famous for its hairpins snaking up from the valley. A strategic route since Roman times, in the Middle Ages it was travelled by merchants and pilgrims.

Today it is one of the Alpine roads riders love most, with flawless tarmac and views ranging from the Engadine lakes to the great peaks of the Alps.

The Maloja Pass hairpins

Julier Pass (2,284 m)

From the Maloja you drop into the Engadine and, after riding along Lake Silvaplana, climb to the Julier Pass at 2,284 metres.

On the other side the road descends towards Bivio and continues down the valley to Tiefencastel, from where you climb again towards Bergün and the Albula Pass.

Hairpins along the Julier Pass road

Albula Pass (2,312 m): the authentic pass

The Albula Pass is one of the most fascinating and least travelled Alpine roads in Switzerland. Opened in 1903, it was a strategic link between the Engadine and the Grisons.

The climb winds through dense forests and deep gorges before opening onto breathtaking views and bends carved into the rock. Less famous than other passes, and therefore all the more authentic and surprising, it offers intense, scenic riding.

The Albula Pass road by motorcycle

Lake Palpuogna, one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland

Just below the pass lies Lake Palpuogna, considered one of the most beautiful Alpine lakes in Switzerland. Its emerald waters reflect forests and peaks, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

It is a place of absolute peace and ideal for a break: a loop trail lets you immerse yourself in nature, with views that stay in your memory.

Lake Palpuogna below the Albula Pass

Route map

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Elevation profile

Partners & Gear

The gear for this trip

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A-Like Air Trail 2 Aqvadry (trousers)

Multi-layer summer touring trousers: waterproof yet perforated, with class AA protection, water-repellent fabric and large Xtr-Mesh panels for airflow.

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  • Used on my trips

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In&motion My Ride ACS Core (airbag vest)

Electronic airbag vest combining advanced protection, comfort and a lightweight design: ride with the peace of mind of being protected.

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A-Like Snatch Air (summer jacket)

Certified, perforated summer jacket that becomes windproof when needed thanks to fold-away inner panels; abrasion-resistant, water-repellent fabrics.

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  • Used on my trips

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A-Like TR-P Air Aqvadry (gloves)

EN 13594:2015 certified gloves for long trips: 3D mesh panels for ventilation and an Aqvadry membrane to stay dry even in the rain.

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A-Like Asphalt Elements Series (laminated shell)

Laminated nylon shell with 10k/10k waterproofing, taped seams and front vents: a minimalist design for any weather.

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