How I plan my next motorcycle trip: routes, hotels and preparation

All the answers you are looking for

• Which apps and tools do you use to plan motorcycle routes?

  My number one tool is **TomTom Route Planner (MyDrive)**. It allows you to design very precise routes, add detours and import GPX files. I also use **alpen-paesse.ch** and **Bormio.eu** to check mountain pass status. For hotels, Booking.com remains my favourite because of its flexibility.

• What do you look for when booking hotels on a motorcycle trip?

  Three things are essential for me: **private parking**, **breakfast included** and **free cancellation**. That combination gives me the most peace of mind, especially because weather and routes can always change.

• How many kilometers can you realistically ride in one day?

  It depends on experience and road type, but for me **500 km of highway** is the absolute maximum. On secondary and mountain roads, 250–300 km is often more than enough for a relaxed day.

• How do you decide between blast days and scenic days?

  I usually plan blast days at the start and end of the trip, to cover the first and last long distances quickly. These are often functional routes. Once I reach the beautiful regions, I focus almost exclusively on scenic roads.

• How far in advance do you plan routes and hotels?

  I’m a big planner. Routes and hotels are often planned months in advance, easily half a year before departure. Hotels are always booked with free cancellation, so I can still adjust if the weather changes or new ideas come up along the way.

• When do most Alpine mountain passes open?

  Usually between late May and early July. Exact opening dates depend on remaining snow. Switzerland typically opens later than Italy or France.

• What should I do if a mountain pass is suddenly closed?

  Always have an alternative planned: either reroute via a lower pass or turn back. Check with local police or tourist offices; they usually have the most up-to-date information.

• Is riding in the mountains difficult?

  It takes some getting used to. Build experience first in lower mountain ranges like the Vosges, the Eifel or the Black Forest: open, flowing roads that are just as beautiful to ride. Once that confidence is there, start with the somewhat 'easier' mountain passes like Gotthard, Julier or Ofen. I jumped straight into the deep end myself with Stelvio as my first pass ever, and I regretted it.