Gravel Training Camp: Pedalmondo's guide to Bern, Switzerland.

Words by James Ion - Photography Provided by Pedalmondo

Sometimes it's just good to get away. Clear your head and just concentrate on riding your bike. But the logistics of organising something yourself can be daunting, especially if visiting a totally new area. So it makes sense to have someone to help out with the planning, and even better when all the routes are laid out for you from a central location. If you have ever thought about doing a training camp or multi-day tour on your gravel bike, then you have come to the right place.

Pedalmondo is a Switzerland-based cycling outfitter focused on making multi-day bike tours that are accessible and convenient. The company’s core business model revolves around premium bike rentals (touring and gravel bikes) combined with flexible logistics and travel support. Based in the Bern region, Pedalmondo offers high-quality Swiss-made touring bikes and, since 2025, gravel bikes equipped for bikepacking adventures​. They provide all necessary gear, up to five waterproof Ortlieb panniers or bikepacking bags, included with each rental​, ensuring riders have the capacity to carry gear for multi-day trips.

Uniquely, Pedalmondo allows riders to pick up and drop off bikes at various locations. For example, with their “Basic” package, you collect and return the bike in Bern, while “Flexible” and “Flexible+” options let you have bikes delivered to or returned at SBB train stations across Switzerland​. This logistic support (in partnership with Swiss Rail’s baggage service) means a customer could begin a journey in one city and end in another, with Pedalmondo handling the bike transport in between​. 

The emphasis is on self-guided gravel and touring adventures. Pedalmondo doesn’t run guided group tours, but rather empowers riders with the equipment, route knowledge, and support needed to explore on their own. Their website features a “Tour Suggestions” section with curated multi-day itineraries, including route maps and accommodation recommendations​, underscoring a service oriented around enabling independent cycling tours. In essence, Pedalmondo’s offering combines bike rental, gear provision, and trip planning resources to deliver “unforgettable cycling experiences in Switzerland”​. This makes them an ideal partner or reference point for anyone planning a gravel cycling camp in the region, as they cover the practical needs (bike, bags, logistics) and local route expertise in one package.

Gravel Routes and Regions around Bern for a Training Camp

The area in and around Bern offers a rich variety of terrain for gravel cyclists, from gentle lakeside paths to demanding alpine climbs​. Pedalmondo’s tour suggestions highlight several round-trip routes starting and ending in Bern, which could form the backbone of a gravel training camp itinerary. Notably, they propose a loop through the Emmental and Entlebuch regions (240 km with ~3,750 m of elevation) that is completed in 3–5 days. This route winds from Bern through rolling hills to Lucerne and back via Entlebuch’s valleys, blending moderate distances with significant climbing. Pedalmondo’s description emphasises that it is a challenging tour (“hilly and exhausting” with many meters of altitude gain) but also immensely rewarding, with diverse sections and well-signposted paths​ . For a training camp, this Emmental–Entlebuch loop offers an ideal playground for building climbing strength and endurance while enjoying quintessential Swiss scenery.

Beyond the Emmental, other nearby routes could be incorporated. Pedalmondo suggests a “3 Jura Lakes” tour (circling from Bern through Solothurn, Biel/Bienne, Neuchâtel, and Murten) covering ~225 km​. This route features gentler terrain with lakeside gravel paths and vineyard vistas, suitable for endurance rides and recovery days.

Another option is the more mountainous “Valais loop” from Bern to Montreux and Brig and back via Interlaken, totalling ~366 km. That itinerary includes alpine passes (e.g. possibly the Grimsel Pass between Brig and Meiringen) and high-altitude riding, a serious test of fitness and handling. While demanding, such a route in a training camp could serve as the “queen stage” to push riders’ limits on big climbs and long distances. Even on shorter rides out of Bern, the region delivers variety: one can pedal along the Aare River on flat gravel tracks one day, and attack the steeper farm roads of the Gantrisch or Emmental hills the next. This mix of terrain, flat river trails, rolling hills, and alpine grades, around Bern, allows a training camp to target different skills and energy systems on different days. Moreover, Bern’s central location means cyclists can access remote, less-touristed areas quickly. The Emmental, for instance, is described as a “mystical hill country” off the typical tourist map, where wooded ridges and rural hamlets invite exploration by bike. Riders can choose routes following valley floors for easier spins or tackle the “seemingly endless ups and downs” of the Emmental for a true workout​. The reward for climbing any ridge is a panorama of patchwork green hills and, in clear weather, views of the distant Alps, a huge morale boost during tough training rides.

In summary, the Bern region offers an ideal training ground for gravel cyclists, with an abundance of loop routes and scenery that can keep a week-long camp both challenging and engaging. Pedalmondo’s local route knowledge (via its published suggestions and blog stories) can be tapped to plan a camp itinerary that strings together the best gravel segments, scenic stops, and climb opportunities in the area.

Logistics and Gear for a Bern Gravel Training Camp

Planning the logistics of a gravel cycling camp in Switzerland requires careful consideration of equipment, weather, and travel details. A big advantage of organising a camp around Bern is the support infrastructure that companies like Pedalmondo provide for travellers.

Instead of flying with a bicycle and bulky gear, participants can rent high-quality gravel bikes in Bern outfitted for touring. Pedal Mondo’s gravel bikes come with appropriate gravel tires (e.g. Pirelli Cinturato H for mixed terrain) and are built for comfort on long rides​. They even have dynamo lights and other features useful for multi-day touring. Along with the bike, riders can rent up to three bags or opt for a full set of five panniers at no extra charge, which is ideal if the camp involves carrying gear on multi-day point-to-point rides. This means a cyclist arriving in Switzerland only needs to bring personal items and specialised accessories (pedals, GPS device if desired), as Pedalmondo supplies the rest: bike, helmet, luggage bags, and even luggage transfer between locations if needed​. The ability to have bikes delivered to a Swiss train station is a boon for those who might start the camp in one region and finish in another, though for a Bern-centred camp, one would likely pick up in Bern and perhaps return there as well.

In terms of gear, a gravel training camp calls for a balance between being prepared and packing light. The terrain in the Bernese Alps and Emmental involves significant elevation changes, so every extra kilogram will be felt on the climbs. Pedalmondo advises carrying only essential, lightweight, and multi-functional equipment, noting that efficient packing is key when you’ll face both paved roads and rough gravel tracks​. Clothing should account for the famously variable Swiss weather, even in summer, a cool rain shower or an early morning in the hills can get chilly. Layering is important: bring a packable rain jacket, arm/leg warmers, and perhaps a lightweight insulating layer for higher elevations or evenings. Sturdy, tubeless-ready gravel tires with sealant are recommended to reduce punctures on rocky paths, and a basic repair kit (multi-tool, spare tube, mini-pump or CO₂, and maybe a quick-link for the chain) should be carried by each rider. Fortunately, Switzerland has good access to bike shops in towns and even vending machines for bike parts in some areas, but when you’re deep in the Emmental or up a mountain pass, self-sufficiency is crucial.

Navigation can be handled via GPS devices loaded with GPX tracks. The National cycle routes are well-marked​, but since a training camp might deviate onto unmarked forest roads or less trodden paths, having a pre-planned route on a device or phone is wise. Pedalmondo’s provision of route maps and even GPX files for their suggested tours can simplify this task.

Logistically, establishing a “base camp” vs. a travelling camp is a key decision. A base camp (for example, staying all week in a Bern hotel or a guesthouse in the Emmental) means riders can do unloaded day rides and return to a fixed lodging each night. This makes logistics simpler (no daily luggage transfers needed) and allows more focused training rides without pannier weight. Bern itself offers many cyclist-friendly accommodations and has the appeal of an Old Town UNESCO heritage city to enjoy after rides. Alternatively, a point-to-point tour (as many Pedalmondo itineraries are structured) adds adventure, riders carry their essentials and stay in different towns or alpine huts each night, turning the camp into an expedition. Switzerland caters to this style well: there are plentiful bike-friendly accommodations, from lakeside campsites to family-run inns, many of which offer secure bike storage and hearty meals​. Pedalmondo’s route briefs list suggested B&BS, campsites and even youth hostels on route​, indicating the viability of a multi-location trip. For a training camp, it may be appealing to take a hybrid approach: perhaps begin with two days based in Bern (for shakedown rides and local trails), then embark on a 3-4 day mini-expedition through the Emmental hills, and finally return to Bern.

Throughout, Pedalmondo’s services could be woven in, for instance, starting the journey by picking up rental gravel bikes at the Ski+Velo Centre in Bern (their local partner shop)​, and maybe using their luggage transfer to send non-essential bags to the final stop. Overall, the gear and logistics planning for a gravel camp in this region is very manageable with the available services: one needs the right bike (gravel or touring bike capable of mixed terrain)​, efficient luggage management, awareness of seasonal conditions, and a bit of foresight in route planning and accommodations. With those elements in place, you can focus on training and enjoying the Swiss scenery rather than worrying about the support details.

Training Focus Areas for a Gravel Camp (Pro Coach Perspective)

A gravel cycling training camp should blend long miles with skill practice and climbing efforts, a mix that a professional coach like Toms Flaksis would certainly endorse. Unlike a leisurely bike tour, a “training camp” implies purposeful rides designed to build fitness and technique. Endurance training is likely the cornerstone: gravel events and big rides demand the ability to sustain power for many hours. The camp itinerary should therefore include at least a couple of long rides (4-6+ hours) at a steady pace to develop aerobic base and fat-burning efficiency. As many coaches note, the key is sustaining power continuously. Gravel riding often allows less coasting than road riding due to higher rolling resistance and frequent climbs, so endurance rides train the body to keep output constant over time. In practical terms, one of the mid-week rides could be a “queen stage” that simulates an ultra-distance gravel day: for example, a 120 km loop from Bern into the mountains and back, or the leg from Thun up to an alpine pass and down to Interlaken, maintaining a moderate pace (Zone 2-3 effort) for endurance. Coaches often recommend such long, slow distance (LSD) rides to enhance fat oxidation, “using long, slow rides to train your fat metabolism” as an essential component of gravel fitness.

Elevation and climbing work should also be a major focus, given the Bern region’s terrain. A gravel camp here is an opportunity to practice both the physical and technical aspects of climbing and descending. Long climbs build leg strength and aerobic capacity, for instance, grinding up the Gurnigel Pass or the hills of the Emmental will push riders into sustained threshold efforts, which over a week can lead to noticeable fitness gains. The literature stresses that raising your sustained power on climbs pays off by keeping you below your redline on long ascents and rough terrain. Coaches often incorporate “low cadence, high torque” intervals on moderate climbs to build muscular endurance. The camp could include a dedicated hill-repeat session: find a 3-5 km gravel climb and do repeats at a strong but controlled pace, focusing on cadence and form. This kind of workout improves climbing economy and mental toughness.

Additionally, descending and bike-handling skills on gravel are crucial to practice safely during camp (preferably before tackling any big alpine descents). Unlike on smooth tarmac, going downhill on gravel requires comfort with some drift and judicious braking. A coach like Flaksis would have riders work on skills such as line choice on loose switchbacks and maintaining control at speed over washboard sections. Indeed, skill training should not be neglected: gravel terrain may be less technical than full mountain biking, but gravel bikes are also less forgiving, so riders need solid handling abilities​. Specific skills to drill could include climbing on loose surfaces (finding traction by keeping weight back and pedalling smoothly) and cornering on dirt or gravel roads​. One camp session might be an afternoon on a forest road loop where you can lap a short course to practice cornering, braking, and quick line adjustments at lower speeds, essentially a “gravel skills clinic”. Doing some of these drills at moderately high intensity is useful it gets you used to handling the bike when fatigued and your heart rate is high.

Another focus area is structured training within the rides: for example, a coach might prescribe that during a 3-hour ride, there are 4×10-minute tempo efforts on hills, or some fast-finish segments. Incorporating a bit of interval training ensures the week isn’t just long slow distance. Given the goals (perhaps preparing for an event or just building general fitness), elements like sweet-spot climbs or even short sprint drills on gravel can be sprinkled in.

It’s worth mentioning recovery as well, a pro training camp balances hard efforts with recovery techniques. This could mean an easier spin day (for instance, a relaxed ride along Lake Thun or around the Gurten hill near Bern), as well as off-the-bike recovery: stretching, refuelling with proper Swiss nutrition (perhaps a rösti or, of course, Emmental cheese!), and adequate sleep. Flaksis and other coaches remind riders that gains are made during recovery after the stimulus. 

Therefore, it is important to listen to one’s body during the camp; if the big climb day leaves everyone shattered, the next morning might be converted to a coffee ride in Bern’s old town to recover. By structuring the week with a clear focus for each day, endurance, skills, climbing, interval mix, and recovery, participants get a well-rounded training experience. 

In summary, the key training areas for a gravel camp are endurance (long, continuous rides), technical skills (bike handling on varied surfaces), and elevation (climbing strength and descending confidence). This triad aligns with expert guidance for gravel riders, ensuring that by the end of the camp, you have not only logged quality miles but also honed the competencies needed for successful gravel riding​.

Let us know if you are planning a gravel training camp or bikebacking trip!

---

Pedalmondo – Gravel and Touring Adventures from Switzerland

Adrian (born 1990) and Christoph (born 1993) are brothers and co-founders of Pedalmondo, a small but growing Swiss startup focused on premium gravel and touring bike rentals. What began as a side project has now become a well-thought-out bikepacking service with a focus on quality, flexibility, and meaningful travel experiences across Switzerland.

Two Brothers – Two Perspectives

Adrian is the strategist and problem-solver. He has a background as a polymechanic and later became a Mechanical Engineering Technician (HF). Today, he works as a Business Process Analyst at Swiss Post. At Pedalmondo, he takes care of customer support, finances, and operations.

Christoph, on the other hand, brings the energy, communication, and curiosity. He trained as an automotive mechatronics technician and later qualified as a Business Process Technician (HF). Today, he leads a production department at Elektrisola while managing marketing, social media, and outreach for Pedalmondo.

We both love being outdoors, whether it’s hiking, cycling, or running, and we’re passionate about promoting cycling as a sustainable way to travel, with Switzerland as the perfect bikepacking destination.

How Pedalmondo Works

Pedalmondo offers two bike types for rent:

• Gravel bikes from Swiss manufacturer MTB Cycletech (Aquila - Hightech-Touring für alle Velo-Fans - MTB Cycletech Velo), equipped with VAUDE bikepacking bags

• Touring bikes from TDS Rad AG, fitted with classic Ortlieb panniers

All bikes are available in three frame sizes (S, M, L). Currently, we operate with eight gravel bikes and eight touring bikes. Customers can bring their own clipless pedals for installation. Our simple principle: “Return the bike in the same condition you received it.”

After every rental, all bikes go through a professional service at our partner shop, SVC (Ski- und Velocenter) in Bern, ensuring they’re always in top condition.

Rental Packages for All Needs

1. Basic: Pick-up and return at our partner shop (SVC) in Bern

2. Flex: Either pick-up or return can be flexible (e.g. within the region)

3. Flex+: Flexible pick-up and return at any Swiss SBB train station

   
   

Our website also features hand-picked route recommendations and a growing blog section with helpful content – from packing lists to gravel route ideas and nutrition tips.

Pedalmondo is not just about bike rentals, it's about creating authentic micro-adventures and inspiring more people to explore Switzerland by bike.

Visit www.pedalmondo.com for more information.

*This is not a paid-for feature or promotion, just a cool guide to riding in Bern, Switzerland, created with the help of Pedalmondo, a small startup with big ideas!