Simplon Pass Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Simplon Pass Panoramic Road is an amazing road trip experience, taking you from the Swiss city of Brig to the Italian city of Domodossola. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Simplon Pass, Simplon, and Varzo, taking in the breathtaking alpine scenery as you go. The total distance of the trip is around 65 km, and can be completed in a day. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer months, when you can appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The road conditions are excellent throughout the entire journey, making it suitable for all drivers. Be aware that you will have to cross a border along the way. Despite this, the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road is a very rewarding experience, providing you with memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. This road trip can be managed on a moderate budget, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure.
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number of days
67 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Brig
Distance 67 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
17.4 kWh
Airports
GVA
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ZRH
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Brig, Switzerland is the perfect starting point for the road trip of a lifetime, the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road. This stunning road will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Alps, and is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Switzerland.
Once you’ve arrived in Brig, there are plenty of sights to explore. The picturesque old town is a great place to start, with its cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Make sure to take the time to explore the castle, the old city walls, and the historic churches. From here, you can also take in the beautiful views of the Matterhorn and the Rhone Valley.
The closest international airport to Brig is the Bern-Belp Airport (BRN), located just over an hour away. If you’re planning on taking the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road, car rentals are available from the airport, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace.
Brig is the perfect place to start your journey through the Swiss Alps. With its stunning views, historic sights, and easy access to car rentals, it’s the perfect place to begin your adventure.
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Brig
- Simplon Pass
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
6.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable road trip? Then get ready to explore the stunning scenery between Brig, Switzerland and Simplon Pass! This 26 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you'll be amazed at the incredible sights along the way. From Brig, you'll be able to take in the awe-inspiring views of the Matterhorn and the Rhone Valley. As you make your way to Simplon Pass, you'll be able to admire the breathtaking Simplon Gorge, a narrow valley cut into the limestone rocks of the Pennine Alps. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, such as the medieval castle of Brig and the ancient Roman bridge at Simplon Pass. With all these incredible sights, you'll be sure to have an unforgettable road trip experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing road trip!
Simplon Pass - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Simplon Pass
- Simplon
Distance 8 km
Driving time 0.1 h
Pace: fast
2.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Simplon Pass, Switzerland to Simplon! This 8 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Swiss Alps.
The first stop is the Simplon Pass, a high mountain pass that lies between the Pennine Alps and Lepontine Alps. Here you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and the valley below. You can also explore the nearby Simplon Hospiz, a former hospice that dates back to the Middle Ages.
The next stop is the village of Simplon, where you can visit the Simplon Church, the oldest church in the region. You can also explore the Simplon Tunnel, the longest railway tunnel in the world. This tunnel was built in the 19th century and is an impressive feat of engineering.
The final stop is the Simplon Pass, where you can take in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps. You can also explore the nearby Simplon Hospiz and the Simplon Church.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey from Simplon Pass to Simplon!
Simplon - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
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3
Simplon
- Varzo
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
4.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Simplon, Switzerland to Varzo, Italy! This 18 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be crossing the state border in the process. Along the way, be sure to stop and explore the picturesque Simplon Pass, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps. You'll also get to visit the historic village of Gondo, which is home to the remains of an old fort and a museum. And finally, you'll arrive in Varzo, an Italian town with medieval origins and plenty of attractions to explore. Don't forget to check out the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, where you can admire the 15th century frescoes and the beautiful bell tower. For the best experience, make sure to consult the "Itinerary" of this stage for information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Bon voyage!
Varzo - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
Varzo - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - en.wikipedia.org
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4
Varzo
- Domodossola
Distance 17 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
4.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Varzo - Domodossola stage of your road trip! This exciting journey will take you 13km through the picturesque landscapes of the Italian Alps. The driving time should not exceed 1 hour, so you will have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places along the way.
In Varzo, make sure to visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie, a beautiful church built in the 16th century, and the Castello di Varzo, a medieval fortress with an impressive tower.
In Domodossola, you can explore the charming old town, with its cobblestone streets, the Piazza del Mercato, and the 12th century Romanesque Basilica di San Biagio. Other sites of interest include the Palazzo San Francesco, home to the Municipal Art Gallery, and the ancient Roman bridge of Ponte della Becca.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Domodossola - Switzerland - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Domodossola
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Domodossola is a charming Italian town at the foot of the Alps, located at the end of the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road. It’s the perfect place to end a road trip and explore the beauty of northern Italy.
Domodossola is a great place to explore the history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. The old town of Domodossola is full of cobblestones and narrow streets, lined with colorful buildings and quaint shops. The town’s main square, Piazza Roma, is a great place to take in the atmosphere and enjoy some Italian gelato.
Domodossola is also known for its beautiful churches and monuments. The Church of San Biagio is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, and the Basilica of Santissima Trinità is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture.
The surrounding mountains are a great place to explore on foot or by bike. There are many trails to choose from, with stunning views of the Alps, lakes, and forests. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of spas and hot springs in the area.
For anyone traveling by air, the closest international airport is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).
This charming Italian town is a great place to end the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road, and explore the beauty of the region. With its fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and stunning mountain views, Domodossola is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.
Simplon Pass Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Brig
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End:
Domodossola
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Distance:
67 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Geneva Cointrin International Airport (GVA),
Zürich Airport (ZRH)
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When to drive:
May, 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 Simplon Pass Panoramic Road is a breathtaking journey that spans from Brig, Switzerland, to Domodossola, Italy. Covering approximately 65 kilometers, this exquisite route takes travelers through the heart of the Alps, presenting an awe-inspiring tapestry of natural wonders. It's an ideal choice for a day Trip, offering a condensed yet remarkable adventure through one of Europe's most splendid landscapes.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
Along the Simplon Pass route, Roadtrippers are graced with the idyllic villages of Simplon Dorf and Gondo in Switzerland, before reaching the picturesque town of Varzo in Italy. This area is steeped in history, with the Simplon Pass itself having been a strategic route since the Napoleonic era. Visitors can marvel at the Stockalper Palace in Brig, a testament to the region's rich past. The hospice on the Simplon Pass, founded by Napoleon, is another historical highlight. The fusion of Swiss and Italian cultures along the way is tangible through the architecture, language, and cuisine, offering an enriching cross-cultural experience amidst the majestic alpine scenery.
Best Time to Go:
The peak season to drive the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road is from June to September when the alpine passes are typically clear of snow, and the full grandeur of the Alps can be appreciated in warmer weather. This period offers the best conditions for exploring the numerous hiking trails and enjoying the vibrant flora and fauna.
Potential Risks:
When planning this Road Trip, be mindful of the fact that weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, and occasional summer snowfalls may occur. Additionally, the Simplon Pass is a border crossing point, so travelers should stay informed about the current travel regulations, including any necessary documentation for entering Italy from Switzerland.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Simplon Pass route is renowned for its well-maintained Roads, making it accessible to drivers of all skill levels.
- It also holds an allure for motorcyclists, cyclists, and classic car enthusiasts who frequently traverse this iconic passage.
- The Simplon Tunnel, completed in 1906, is one of the world's longest railway tunnels and runs parallel to the Road, offering an alternative mode of travel between these two countries.
- For those captivated by the engineering feat, the old Ganter Bridge is a must-see, as it stands as a marvel of modern bridge construction.
A good choice for:
Traversing the Simplon Pass Panoramic Road is a bucket-list-worthy experience for those passionate about Scenic Drives, cultural exploration, and historical discovery. This journey is not just about the destination but also about the unforgettable moments and panoramic views that create lifelong memories.