Experience report on the Säntis Classic 2024
With great anticipation and perfect equipment from our new CYCLZ collection, we set off for this year's Säntis Classic - a cycling marathon that leads through one of the most beautiful and challenging landscapes in Switzerland. From rolling hills over Alpine passes to steep climbs, the Säntis Classic offers everything that makes an ambitious cyclist's heart beat faster. Our goal: to conquer the radathlon course in seven hours and get the best out of ourselves and our equipment.
Route and landscape: Cycling through the heart of the Alpstein
The Säntis Classic is known for its spectacular route through the Appenzellerland and the border triangle around Lake Constance. The route offered us picturesque views of flowering meadows, dense forests and the majestic peaks of the Alpstein Mountains. The first 80 kilometers were relatively flat and passed through small villages and hamlets that motivated us with their Swiss idyll. But after this "warm-up" it got serious: the climbs became more challenging and we felt that we were approaching the heart of the race.
The challenge: The climb to Schwägalp
After about 130 kilometers, the highlight of the route was approaching - the climb to Schwägalp at an altitude of 1,350 meters. With 200 kilometers and a total elevation of 2,200 meters, the cycle race places particularly high demands on fitness and stamina. The climb to Schwägalp was challenging, but the feeling of fighting your way up this mountain step by step was incomparable. The moment we reached the summit made up for all the exertions: the view of the surrounding mountains and the knowledge that we had reached this peak is difficult to describe.
Our breathable jerseys kept us dry, while the comfortable fit of our cycling shorts enabled us to perform well even on the steep climbs.
Community and team spirit: driving in a group
A special highlight of the Säntis Classic is riding in a group. The many participants not only share the joy of cycling, but also the mutual support and motivation on the route. In a group, even the strenuous kilometers were more pleasant - working together in a column and cheering each other on during the difficult climbs strengthened the team spirit and created a special dynamic.
Security and supply – perfect organization
The organizers of the Säntis Classic ensured excellent route security: important roads were closed so that we could concentrate fully on the route and the experience. High-quality snacks, drinks and even a short break to recharge our batteries for the next few kilometers awaited us at the refreshment stands. These breaks were a welcome respite before we got back in the saddle.
Conclusion: A day full of enthusiasm and motivation
The Säntis Classic 2024 was an incomparable experience that enriched us in many ways. The perfect combination of breathtaking landscapes, challenging altitudes and the community among the riders made the day unforgettable.
For us one thing is certain: The Säntis Classic 2025 is already firmly in the calendar. We look forward to being part of this unique event again – with new motivation and new team spirit.
Event website: https://www.saentis-classic.ch