A BMW MOA Member Special

Please call +1 (877)-275-8238 to learn more about this or other tours.


A special version of our popular Alps Switchback Challenge has been designed for members of the BMW MOA. In addition to riding the best passes and switchbacks in the Alps, members will receive a complimentary extra day to tour the BMW Museum in Munich followed by an authentic beer and bratwurst experience. This exciting 8-day alpine adventure features riding in the Austrian, German, Italian and Swiss Alps.

Riders will depart Munich for Pfunds, Austria, a charming village in the Inntal Valley, between the mighty peaks of the Samnaum Mountains and the Ötztal Alps. Located only 3 miles from the border with Switzerland, Pfunds is the Adventure Center which we will call home for four consecutive nights. From the “biker-friendly” lodge, riders will be led by a local Ayres Adventures tour leader on some of the best riding the Alps has to offer. Riders will experience epic and renowned passes including the “Timmelsjoch” and the “Mighty Stelvio” with its 75 switchbacks.

The Switchback Challenge is ideal for single riders or for couples traveling two-up. Non-riding companions (or companions who do not wish to ride every day) can opt for exploring the mountain village of Pfunds and enjoying hotel amenities.

At a Glance Your Alps Switchback Challenge 2019

switchback-challenge
Welcome to Bavaria, the “beer capital of Germany”! On the official arrival day we will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. If you arrive early, you can take a stroll to do a little sightseeing or try out one of the famous Bavarian biergartens. We’ll have a kickoff meeting in the late afternoon followed by our first dinner together!

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures

Our first riding day offers a perfect opportunity to get accustomed to the bike and the riding conditions in Europe. We journey out on beautiful winding country roads through the upper Bavarian Lake country. Our first stop will be in the picturesque Bavarian village of Bad Tölz, the gateway to the Alps. We’ll cross into Austria where we will encounter and enjoy the exhilaration of our first alpine roads. At a look-out point high above the Inn Valley, we can stop to appreciate stunning mountain views from the extension deck. Curvy roads will lead us into Pfunds where we will find a picturesque alpine village next to the Inn River. History of the town dates back to the 1200s with some buildings as old as 400 years. The support vehicle will have delivered our luggage by the time we arrive at our “home” for the next four nights.

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures

A fantastic day lies ahead as we ride west into the Swiss Alps. Crossing the border into Switzerland, the fun begins with roads that give a clue as to why this tour is labelled “Switchback Challenge”! In spite of the exhilarating ride, it is hard to resist stopping to capture the picture-perfect landscapes of the Alps and the many alpine villages. We will enjoy Swiss hospitality in many of these charming villages along the way. A highlight of the today’s ride is the famous Fluelapass, which at an elevation of 7818 ft, offers breathtaking views of the striking Schwarzhorn and the alpine lakes below. We ride through Davos, the highest altitude town in Europe, and then cross the Julierpass to arrive at our destination, St. Moritz, one of the most famous holiday resort towns in the world.

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures
Today is the day we conquer the iconic Mighty Stelvio! We leave Pfunds for Italy via the Reschenpass. At the top of this ancient pass, which was built at the behest of a Roman Emperor in the 2nd century, we’ll stop to view the artificial lake with a 14th century church submerged in its waters. Continuing into Italy we stop for refreshments in the beautiful old hamlet of Glurns, a cultural treasure tucked behind medieval city walls. From there, we begin our approach to conquer Passo di Stelvio, the mother of all passes. With 48 switchbacks up, and another 27 down, it is the second highest paved pass in the Alps. We will pass through Livigno, a once charming farm village which has grown in popularity as a tourist destination in recent years. It is a place worth stopping as it is a pretty town with duty-free status. On our return to Pfunds, we dip back into Switzerland to ride the wonderful Ofen Pass, named after the ovens used for ironworks in the area.

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures

Today we head back into the Italian Alps where numerous pass roads will make for a great day. We ride east toward the Inn Valley and start climbing to the saddle of Kuehtai, Austria’s highest ski resort. We head back into Italy via the Brennerpass, the most important north-south connection in the Alps. Next we climb the extraordinary Jaufenpass followed by the 8200 ft Paso di Rombo, also known as the Timmelsjoch in German. The summit of this toll road is also the border into Italy. The Timmelsjoch has become a mecca for both bicyclists and motorcyclists from all over the world. As the road is so famous among motorcycle enthusiasts, the owners of a nearby ski-hill decided it was a great location for a motorcycle museum. In a building of stunning architectural design, the museum showcases the culture and history of motorcycle riding with 170 classic motorcycles on display. Though we may be tempted to spend a considerable amount of time at this Top Mountain Crosspoint, it is a long day and so we must continue on our way. On our return to Pfunds, we take a relaxing ride through the Oetz Valley, formed by the main chain of the Alps. The Oetz Valley is famous for the discovery of Ötzi or “Iceman”, which dates back to 3,300 BC.

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures
Our last riding day provides plenty of photo opportunities as we work our way back to Munich. The landscape transitions from high alpine to lush countryside, an area so beautiful that the last kings in the state of Bavaria made it their home. Passing by the crystal clear waters of Plansee Lake, we will see the hunting castle of King Ludwig. This famous castle is where “Mad” King Ludwig of Bavaria tried to imitate the famous French castle of Versailles. Before we loop into Ismaning, we will stop at the famous Pilgrimage Church of Wies in Steingaden, where in 1738 a miracle was said to have taken place. Dinner will be at an authentic Bavarian biergarten where we can drink to our time together in the Alps – Prost!!

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures
Today we will visit the BMW Museum located at the old Olympic Village where we will enjoy a grand exhibition of BMW vehicles from all historic periods along with the technology developments and conceptual studies which made them possible. In another building, enhanced with an incredible double-cone glass and steel installation, the BMW Welt provides a lavish display of BMW products where people can look, touch and sit in current production models. After touring the BMW Museum and BMW Welt, we will venture out to enjoy a beer and bratwurst at an authentic Bavarian biergarten in the heart of the city. For the remaining part of the day, you can stroll around and absorb the unique qualities of this city with its contrast between Bavarian traditions and modern urban sophistication. It’s a dynamic place full of heritage, culture and, of course, beer!

BMW MOA Alps Switchback Challenge 2019, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures
After breakfast, we will arrange your transport to the airport for your flight home.

The route is entirely paved but includes some challenging sections, particularly in the mountains and while passing through small towns. The tour is best done by experienced riders.

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  • Includes BMW F700GS
  • Additional charge of $100 for a BMW F800GS
  • Additional charge of $100 for a BMW F800R
  • Additional charge of $100 for a BMW F800GT
  • Additional charge of $100 for a BMW F800GS Adv
  • Additional charge of $100 for a BMW R1200R LC
  • Additional charge of $250 for a BMW R1200GS LC
  • Additional charge of $290 for a BMW R nineT (limited number – on special request)
  • Additional charge of $300 for a BMW R1200GS Adv LC
  • Additional charge of $300 for a BMW R1200RT LC
  • Additional charge of $450 for a BMW S1000R
  • Additional charge of $550 for a BMW S1000XR
  • Additional charge of $550 for a BMW R1200RS LC (limited number – on special request)
  • Additional charge of $550 for a BMW K1300R (limited number – on special request)
  • Additional charge of $550 for a BMW K1300S (limited number – on special request)
  • Additional charge of $1,090 for a BMW S1000RR (limited number – on special request)
  • Personal motorcycle: deduct $500 from the rider price.
Standard Inclusions
  • Late model, low mileage motorcycle
  • All accommodations
  • A’ la carte dining
  • One Ayres Adventures professional tour leader
  • Airport arrival/departure transfers
  • Luggage handling
  • Comprehensive pre-trip planning and assistance
  • Customized trip booklet with day-by-day itinerary and attractions
  • Two commemorative shirts
  • Adventurer Club travel award credit
Meals
  • All breakfasts
  • 4 dinners
Special Inclusions
  • Tickets and a day at the BMW Museum in Munich

Deposit per person: $800

Single room supplement – $600

2019 Schedule
Date2019 AdventuresLengthPrice(USD)Co-riderNotes
August 24 - 31Alps Switchback Challenge 20198 Days$2,975$1,975Sold Out
Cancellation fee and refunds
FROM DATE OF
SCHEDULED COMMENCEMENT
AMOUNT FORFEITED
More than 60 days50% of deposit
60 days or fewer but more than 45 days100% of deposit
45 days or fewer but more than 30 days50% of full tour payment
30 days or fewer100% of full tour payment

The Alps Switchback challenge was amazing!

The Alps Switchback challenge was amazing. It was affordable and the correct amount of time for me to be able to use vacation. I want to take my son on a future trip.

Jared's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback challenge

Jared Chastain
Chattanooga, TN

We are still gushing about how amazing our trip was

From start to finish everything ran seamlessly. The hotels were comfortable and convenient. The food was top notch. Every day the rides and scenery were amazing, but what puts your trip above and beyond is your fantastic guides. Both were extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Claus and Fuzzy made sure everyone in our group enjoyed the riding. I can't imagine trying to put this together without them. They not only translated everything for us, but knew of routes that we would have never found on our own and shared a wealth of history and information. We enjoyed Claus' dry and clever sense of humor and Fuzzy's gregarious personality. We are already trying to decide which trip we will do next. Thank you again to you and your team. We are counting the days until the next one!

Lori's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Lori DuPree
Sheridan, IL

Ayres Adventures had exceeded all of my expectations!

David-Mignon, Testimonial, Ayres Adventures

Ayres Adventures had exceeded all of my expectations! The entertainment, scenery, history made riding in a different country easy! I will return!

David's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

David Mignon
Beloit, WI

Look forward to taking another tour with Ayres

Jim-Loomis, Testimonial, Ayres Adventures

Riding the Alps had been on the bucket list for many years.
Finally got to do the Switchback Challenge with my good friend Dave.
This was the first time on an organized tour like this and it was everything I hoped it would be.
The riding was challenging, guides were outstanding, hotels and food were great!
I look forward to taking another tour with Ayres.

Jim's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Jim Loomis
Beloit, WI

We were so pleased with the help we received

Robert's Testimonial, Motorcycle Tour in Alps, Ayres Adventures

My wife and I were worried about riding in a foreign country. Language barriers, foreign currency, traffic and other differences. We were so pleased with the help we received from everyone we met and our tour leaders. The worst part of the trip was the flight home. We hated to leave.

Robert's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Robert Litavecz
Merrillville, IN

Definitely a FIVE star company!

Charles Mooney, Ayres Adventures reviews

Anyone planning a tour should only consider Ayres Adventures. Safety is of the utmost importance to this company and this was displayed throughout my trip by Claus and Axel. The motorcycle that I rode was a brand new BMW R1250R with all the bells and whistles, a pleasure to ride. In a matter 48 hours we became one big family. Definitely a FIVE star company!

Charles' Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Charles Mooney
Staten Island, NY

The motorcycles, lodging and meals were top notch

Chuck Gregory, Testimonial, Motorcycle Tour in Europe

This was our first trip with Ayres Adventures and it was great! Our group of eight, from Atlanta, signed up for the Alps Switchback Challenge. The services provided were exactly as advertised. The motorcycles, lodging and meals were top notch. Our trip leader, Claus, was totally professional and manged to keep us out of jail in four countries. We found the overall value good and the attention to detail always there. Give these folks a try. I believe you will be happy you did, we are!

Chuck's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Chuck Gregory
Marietta, GA

I returned refreshed and ready to go

Jaboori, Switchback Challenge - the Alps, Motorcycle Tour Testimonial, Ayres Adventures

The Ayres Adventure tour made me totally disconnect from daily life challenges and I returned refreshed and ready to go.

Thanks, guys!!

Kayvan's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Kayvan Jaboori
Centreville, VA

Ayres Adventure Switchback Challenge was amazing

Erica Danek, motorcycle tour testimonials, Ayres Adventures

Ayres Adventure Switchback Challenge was amazing. If you are the type of rider who measures the chicken strip before and after your ride (like my husband does) then this tour is for you. We spent most of the time leaning than we did riding up right. This was especially challenging for me because I was riding two up and in charge of the filming while trying to hold on. Axel was not only entertaining but a wealth of knowledge when it came to the bikes, riding and safety. He made sure to include me in the decision making process even though I was the only female and pillion. He went above and beyond to make me feel like a real life princess on my birthday. The little touches did not go unnoticed. Thank you Axel and thank you Ayres for the trip of a life time.

Erika's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Erica created a video about our 2016 Switchback Challenge Adventure. Click here to watch the video.

Erika Danek
St. Augustine, FL

The trip of a lifetime

Cecil Broome, Ayres Adventures

My bucket list motorcycle tour to the European Alps with Ayres Adventures was indeed the trip of a lifetime. Great riding, great food, great hotel and great fun.

Cecil's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge
Africa Panorama Tour

Cecil Broome
Middleburg, FL

Best yet father and son outing to date in this lifetime!

Bob and Sean's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Bob and Sean Mabey
Bountiful, Utah

It was a great experience!

My wife booked this tour for my son and I for my son's high school graduation present. My wife is our family's chief financial officer,and she wanted me to tell you that she believed it was a very good experience for the cost. That is huge coming from her! I have her permission to do more tours with your company!
Axel and Claus were very good to be with for the week. No complaints whatsoever. They could not have been more gracious. Thank you so much for everything your personnel did to accommodate us. There were no problems that we encountered, from signing up to checking out. It was a great experience.

Mark and Tristen's Adventures include:
Alps Switchback Challenge

Mark and Tristen Lobbezoo
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Private Tour Inquiry

We are happy to book any of our motorcycle tour as a private tour. For most tours, we require a minimum of 8 bikes, or 12 participants (riders plus co-riders). We can provide a private motorcycle tour for smaller groups, but a surcharge may apply. We can also customize any of our regular tours for a private group.

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