Nufenen Pass

High, austere and uncompromising. The Nufenen is one of Switzerland’s highest paved passes, with a steeper, more demanding personality than its neighbouring Alpine roads.

Climb facts

Approach

Ulrichen → Nufenen

Climb length

13.8 km

Elevation gain

1129 m

Average gradient

8.2%

Summit elevation

2478 m

Riding the Nufenen Pass

Nufenen has the kind of landscape that makes the work feel worthwhile. I like how quickly the surroundings change as the road pushes toward the upper mountain.

It is a climb that rewards patience more than bravado. I would rather keep a measured rhythm and still have the energy to appreciate the final kilometres.

Sample journal text — add the real route, effort and memories here.

History and local context

Nufenenpass (Passo della Novena) connects the Upper Valais with Ticino and rises to roughly 2,478 metres.

Before you ride

Expect cool conditions and exposed sections near the top. The western approach is sustained and relatively steep.

Sources

• VeloViewer — Nufenenpass
• CyclingUp Swiss pass comparison

By James Gilbert · About the author