Scenic European Routes

Switzerland's mountain passes offer some of the most exhilarating driving experiences in Europe. These engineering marvels wind their way through the majestic Alps, providing access to breathtaking landscapes that would otherwise remain hidden from view. In this guide, we'll explore three of Switzerland's most spectacular mountain passes: Furka Pass, Susten Pass, and Grimsel Pass.

Furka Pass: James Bond's Favorite Route

Made famous by the car chase scene in the James Bond film "Goldfinger," the Furka Pass connects the cantons of Uri and Valais. Rising to an elevation of 2,429 meters (7,969 feet), this pass offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Switzerland.

The route features numerous hairpin turns and steep gradients, challenging even experienced drivers. However, the reward is worth the effort – panoramic views of the Rhône Glacier, the distant Bernese Alps, and on clear days, even glimpses of the Matterhorn.

Key Stops:

• Hotel Belvédère: This iconic hotel sits at a hairpin bend with perfect views of the Rhône Glacier. Though currently closed for renovation, it's still a popular photo spot.
• Glacier du Rhône: Take time to visit the source of the Rhône River. You can walk to the glacier cave, which glows with an ethereal blue light.
• Furka Steam Railway: Train enthusiasts will appreciate this historic narrow-gauge railway that operates during summer months.

Susten Pass: Engineering Marvel

Connecting the cantons of Uri and Bern, the Susten Pass (2,224 meters/7,297 feet) is considered one of the most beautifully engineered mountain roads in Switzerland. Built between 1938 and 1945, it was the first pass road designed specifically with automobile traffic in mind.

What sets Susten apart is its perfect balance of thrilling driving and accessibility. The road is wider than many other Alpine passes, with well-designed curves and gradual ascents. The numerous galleries and tunnels carved through the mountainside showcase Swiss engineering prowess.

Highlights:

• Sustenhorn and Steingletscher: The imposing Sustenhorn mountain and the Steingletscher glacier provide spectacular backdrops for photography.
• Meien Valley: The descent on the Bern side takes you through the picturesque Meien Valley with its traditional Swiss farms and cascading waterfalls.
• Observation Platforms: Several purpose-built viewing platforms allow you to safely pull over and admire the Alpine scenery.

Grimsel Pass: Otherworldly Landscapes

The Grimsel Pass (2,164 meters/7,100 feet) connects the Hasli Valley in the Bernese Oberland with the Goms Valley in Valais. What makes this pass unique is its stark, almost lunar landscape dominated by granite rock formations and crystal-clear reservoir lakes.

The contrast between the barren upper sections of the pass and the lush green valleys below creates a dramatic transition as you ascend or descend. Massive hydroelectric dams and reservoirs add an industrial element to the natural beauty.

Don't Miss:

• Grimsel Hospice: This historic mountain hotel dates back to the 14th century when it served as a shelter for travelers crossing the Alps.
• Lake Grimsel: The turquoise waters of this reservoir lake create a stunning contrast against the gray granite landscape.
• Totensee (Lake of the Dead): This small lake at the summit of the pass is named for the many soldiers who perished in a battle between Austrian and French troops in 1799.

Planning Your Alpine Pass Adventure

Best Time to Visit: These passes are typically open from late May/early June to October, depending on snow conditions. July and August offer the most reliable weather, but also attract the most visitors. Early September provides a good balance of decent weather and fewer crowds.

Driving Tips:

• Always check road conditions before setting out. Snow can close these passes even in summer.
• Fill your fuel tank before starting your ascent; gas stations are scarce in the mountains.
• Use engine braking (lower gear) when descending to avoid overheating your brakes.
• Be prepared to give way to postal buses, which always have right of way on mountain roads.
• Start early to avoid traffic and to maximize daylight for photography.

The Ultimate Alpine Circuit: For the truly adventurous, these three passes can be combined into a single day's driving circuit known as the "Three-Pass Route." Starting from Andermatt, you can tackle Furka, Grimsel, and Susten passes in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, returning to your starting point after about 100 kilometers (62 miles) of Alpine driving.

Where to Stay

Andermatt makes an excellent base for exploring these passes. This historic Alpine village offers accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Alternatively, consider staying in Meiringen on the northern side of the passes or Gletsch at the foot of the Rhône Glacier.

Switzerland's mountain passes represent the perfect fusion of natural beauty and human engineering. Whether you're a driving enthusiast seeking thrilling roads, a photographer chasing the perfect Alpine shot, or simply a traveler wanting to experience Switzerland beyond the usual tourist routes, these mountain passes promise an unforgettable adventure.