SlowUps are a tradition that started in the year 2000 around the lake of Murten as part of the “Human Powered Mobility” project at Expo.02. Several such events now take place in various areas of Switzerland and neighboring countries and are a great way to discover an area without the use or presence of cars! The recipe is simple—take approximately 30 km of relatively flat roads in an attractive area, close them to motorized traffic for the day, and allow participants to discover and enjoy the region and a host of activities in a cheerful, safe, and car-free atmosphere. You can take your bicycle, inline skates, scooter, skateboard, wave board, or wheelchair, or just walk or jog along all or part of the route. Everyone is welcome to join, and participation is completely free! The events take place rain or shine, and nearly half a million people participate each year in one of the 20 slowUps in Switzerland and neighboring areas. Basel hosts a terrific slowUp each fall (this year on Sunday, September 17), but why not enjoy a slowUp in another region and experience it in a safe environment with the whole family.

On this day, participants can travel car-free on 32 kilometers of road between Laufenburg/Baden, Murg, and Bad Säckingen on the German side, and between Stein and Laufenburg on the Swiss side of the Rhein. This circular course will take you, among other things, along the gorgeous landscape of the Hochrhein (upper Rhein), through a large forested area, over two historic Rhein bridges, and through the center of three historic towns (Baden, Laufenburg, and Bad Säckingen). The route runs over the longest wooden bridge in Bad Säckingen across the Rhein and includes only one steep gradient in Laufenburg/Baden. There is no starting or end point—you can simply join in anywhere along the circuit; just remember to travel only counter-clockwise. The various festive areas operated by local clubs ensure relaxation, entertainment, and physical well-being.
The Hochrhein circuit can be reached in about 40 minutes from Basel by car or by train (bike spaces on trains are limited). If you prefer to rent your bike on the spot, the official slowUp rental bikes are available for hire in Laufenburg. The comfortable country bikes and e-bikes are available in different frame sizes; for families there are also family cargo e-bikes as well as children's bikes and children's trailers. Reserve online at www.rentabike.ch/slowUp.
This event is free to the public, but consider purchasing a CHF 5 “vignette” on the spot that helps to cover costs and ensure its continued success.

Website
slowup-hochrhein.info

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