Furka Pass Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Furka Pass Panoramic Road is a breathtaking 32 kilometer journey from Gletsch to Andermatt in Switzerland. This route takes you through Furka Pass and Realp, two picturesque towns, and is best experienced during the summer months. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and lush green fields. The road is in excellent condition and suitable for all drivers, although it can be quite curvy and narrow at times. Please be aware that due to the weather conditions, the road may be closed seasonally. Despite the high cost, this road trip is a must-do for anyone looking for a high-level experience and lasting memories.
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number of days
32 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Gletsch
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: slow
7.5 kWh
Airports
ZRH
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Gletsch in Switzerland is the perfect starting point for the spectacular “Furka Pass Panoramic Road”. This captivating town is situated in the canton of Valais and lies in the heart of the Swiss Alps. With its calm atmosphere and stunning views, Gletsch is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
Gletsch is the ideal starting point for the “Furka Pass Panoramic Road” as it provides easy access to the Furka Pass and the surrounding mountain passes. It is also the perfect spot for those wanting to explore the stunning beauty of the nearby glaciers and the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.
Not to be missed during your visit is the Rhone Glacier. This amazing natural wonder is a must-see and can be explored on foot or by car. The picturesque town of Gletsch is also home to the beautiful Goms Valley, where you can find a variety of quaint villages. The nearby Glacier Express, a train ride through the Swiss Alps, is also a great way to explore the area.
The closest international airport to Gletsch is Zurich Airport (ZRH). There are car rental services available at this airport, making it easy to explore the area with your own car.
Gletsch is the ideal starting point for the “Furka Pass Panoramic Road”, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. With its stunning views, beautiful glaciers and quaint villages, this captivating town is the perfect destination for a getaway.
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Gletsch
- Furka Pass
Distance 10 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: modest
2.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Gletsch, Switzerland to Furka Pass! This 10 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, but the scenery and attractions along the way will make it seem so much longer. Enjoy the winding roads and steep ramps as you make your way to the pass. Be aware that some sections may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and some sections may be closed seasonally. The road is also narrow in some sections, so be sure to drive with caution. Along the way, take in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and deep valleys. Stop at the nearby lakes to take a dip or go for a hike. Don't forget to check out the Furka Pass, a high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Furka Pass - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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Furka Pass
- Realp
Distance 12 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: slow
2.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in Furka Pass, Switzerland and ending in Realp? This 12 km drive will take you less than an hour to complete, and you will be rewarded with incredible views along the way. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and that there are steep ramps and winding roads in some sections, so it is not suitable for cars with camper trailers. The road is also quite narrow in some sections, so take extra care when driving. You will be surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, so keep your eyes open and enjoy the ride! Once you reach Realp, you can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Realp - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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Realp
- Andermatt
Distance 10 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: modest
2.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 9 km journey from Realp to Andermatt and discover the beauty of the Swiss Alps. This scenic drive will take less than an hour, and you will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the narrow roads and be sure to keep an eye out for seasonal closures on some sections of the route. As you drive through the winding roads, you will be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the mountains. Make sure to take plenty of pictures, and don't forget to stop at the most interesting places along the way.
Andermatt offers a variety of attractions, including the Gotthard Pass, the Furka Pass, and the Andermatt Ski Resort. You can also explore the nearby villages and take in the beauty of the Swiss Alps. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a great time exploring the Swiss Alps!
Andermatt - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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Andermatt
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Andermatt, situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is the perfect ending point for the breathtaking road trip experience of the Furka Pass Panoramic Road. Located in the Ursern Valley, Andermatt is a popular tourist destination for many reasons.
For those traveling by car, it is a great place to explore the surrounding alpine scenery, with a number of interesting attractions in the town itself. The Andermatt-Sedrun ski resort is a great place to ski, snowboard, and toboggan, while the nearby Gemstock peak offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby roads offer some of the best driving experiences in Switzerland, and there are plenty of places to pull over and take in the views.
Those looking for a more cultural experience can visit the Devil's Bridge, an ancient bridge with an interesting history, or the Oberalp Pass, a popular mountain pass with stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The town also features an 18-hole golf course, perfect for a day out on the green.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), located just over two hours away by car.
Andermatt is the perfect end to the Furka Pass Panoramic Road and offers something for everyone. With its stunning alpine scenery, cultural attractions, and plenty of activities, it is a great destination for those who are looking for an unforgettable experience.
Furka Pass Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Gletsch
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End:
Andermatt
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Distance:
32 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Zürich Airport (ZRH)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Furka Pass Panoramic Road is an exhilarating 32-kilometer journey nestled in the Swiss Alps, connecting Gletsch in the canton of Valais with Andermatt in the canton of Uri. This storied route, part of the Swiss national Road network, is famed for its dramatic alpine scenery and remarkable engineering.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
As Roadtrippers navigate the serpentine Roads of the Furka Pass, they encounter the picturesque alpine landscapes and quaint towns that exude Swiss charm. Noteworthy landmarks include the majestic Rhone Glacier, a primary source of the Rhone River, which is known for its ethereal blue ice grotto—a tunnel carved into the glacier itself. The nearby historic Hotel Belvedere, although no longer in operation as of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, once offered an incredible vantage point to view the glacier. The region is also renowned for the iconic Steingletscher and the serene Grimselsee reservoir.
Best Time to Go:
The most opportune time to embark on the Furka Pass Road Trip is typically from June to September when the pass is clear of snow, unveiling the full splendor of the surrounding peaks and lush valleys.
Potential Risks:
The drive includes sharp turns and steep inclines, requiring motorists to navigate with care. The high altitude and unpredictable mountain weather can lead to seasonal closures, usually from October to May, and occasional hazards such as rockfalls. It's crucial to check Road conditions and weather forecasts before starting the Trip.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
The Furka Pass gained international fame after appearing in the 1964 James Bond film `Goldfinger,` forever cementing its status as an iconic driving destination. The Road is a marvel of engineering, with stretches skirting precipices and offering panoramic views that make it a favorite among driving enthusiasts and cyclists alike. Despite the challenges, the Road is well-engineered and suitable for motorists who respect the route's conditions and speed limits.
A good choice for:
Roadtrippers embarking on the Furka Pass Panoramic Road journey should be prepared for a premium experience, with Switzerland's high cost of living reflected in travel expenses such as fuel, tolls, and amenities. Despite this, the adventure offers an unparalleled chance to immerse oneself in the grandeur of the Alps, making it a bucket-list Trip for many and a treasure trove of breathtaking vistas and cherished memories.