Stage 2 Gravel Bike Route Anterior Rhine: Ilanz – Lag Pigniu – Brigels

From Ilanz (699m above sea level) the journey takes you on a paved road with a crisp ascent to Ruschein (1,166m above sea level). The view from Ruschein over Ilanz to Valsertal is the first highlight of the route. In Ruschein, you’ll reach the Graubünden bike route no. 90 and traverse to Siat. Steep ascents alternate with relaxing flat sections. In Siat, some of the fountains are a welcome opportunity to fill up your bottles. The view of the Obersaxen plateau lets you forget your sore legs for a while. Until Darpagaus (1,494m above sea level), the road ascents, before you’ll reach the side valley "Val da Pigniu" on a fast descent.

The ascent towards Pigniu and up to the reservoir Lag da Pigniu (1,447m above sea level) is easy to master. The rock wall with impressive waterfalls at the very back of the lake is so impressive that the detour to the very end of the gravel road is definitely worthwhile. The route only folows the road for a short while before you turn right on the MTB route 90. On the other side of the river, you’ll first get onto a dirt road, and then followed by a short interlude through woods and meadows to Andiast. From Andiast you follow the main road to Waltensburg (1,003m above sea level) for short stretch. The church in Waltensburg has an inspiring interior with fantastic paintings and is certainly worth a stop.

 A gravel road with a panoramic view and an impressive rock tunnel will take you to Brigels (1,290m above sea level).

Stages

Overall route: Chur  – Chur

Stage 1: Chur – Ilanz

Stage 2: Ilanz – Lag Pigniu – Brigels

Stage 3: Brigels – RhB – Lai Tuma – Disentis

Stage 4: Disentis – Obersaxen

Stage 5: Obersaxen – Alp Nova – Ilanz

Stage 6: Ilanz – Flimserwald – Chur