From Davos to the Flüela Pass (7,818 ft / 2,383 m) it’s 8 miles (12.9 km) at an average of 6.4% with 2,700 ft (823 m) of climbing, according to CyclingCols. Climbfinder (8 miles / 12.8 km and 2,703 ft / 824 m) and quäldich (8 miles / 12.8 km and 2,690 ft / 820 m) give practically the same.
What the climb is like
It’s a very steady climb, the kind you ride at a set pace:
- Leaving Davos. You leave town, already above 4,900 ft (1,500 m), and enter the Flüela valley on a wide road through conifer forest.
- Middle section. The valley opens up and the road climbs along the slope with few bends (Climbfinder counts 4) and grades of 6-8%. You can see almost everything that’s left in front of you.
- Finish. Above the tree line, among pastures and scree, you reach the pass, with two small lakes and the hospice.
The sources disagree on the maximum grade (CyclingCols gives 10% and Climbfinder 12.8% over 330 ft / 100 m), but there are no long, very steep sections.
History
The Flüela links Davos with Susch, in the Lower Engadine. Since the Vereina rail tunnel opened, winter opening is no longer guaranteed; since 1990 an association, Pro Flüela, has worked to extend the season. It has featured in the Giro d’Italia only once: in 1995 Mariano Piccoli was first over the top, according to CyclingCols.
When to go, water and traffic
The cycling season runs from June to September. Traffic is moderate, with motorcycles in summer. Fill your bottles in Davos: there are few options on the climb; at the pass, there’s the hospice.
What gearing to use
At 3 W/kg and 159 lb (72 kg), you’ll be riding about 8.1 mph (13 km/h) on 6.5%; with a 34x28 that’s about 85 rpm. A 34x28 is enough for almost everyone. Compare options in the gear calculator.
Tips
- Factor in the altitude: you start above 4,900 ft (1,500 m) and finish above 7,500 ft (2,300 m).
- Combine it with the Albula for a loop through the Engadine.
- Bring a wind jacket for the descent.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to climb the Flüela Pass from Davos?
A 159 lb (72 kg) rider on a 21 lb (9.5 kg) bike takes about 58 min at 3 W/kg (216 W), 1 h 09 min at 2.5 W/kg and 45 min at 4 W/kg. Work out your own time with your weight and power in the calculator on this page.
Which side of the Flüela is harder?
The Susch side, in the Engadine: about 8.1 miles (13.1 km) at 7.3% and roughly 3,150 ft (960 m) of climbing. From Davos it's 8 miles (12.9 km) at 6.4%.
Is the Flüela Pass open in winter?
It's not guaranteed. Since 1990 an association, Pro Flüela, has worked to keep it open longer outside summer; check before you go.