Summer is the perfect season to explore Switzerland’s winding roads. As the sun melts away the winter snow and gives way to nature’s vibrant colours and stunning vistas, the pleasant weather and crisp air creates an inviting atmosphere for exploration. With fewer crowds on the roads, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings and embrace the freedom of the open road.
Switzerland’s scenery stands among the most beautiful in the world, and a road trip is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in its breathtaking wonders. From majestic peaks to charming valleys. Picture yourself winding through Alpine mountain passes, encountering crystal-clear lakes, and stumbling upon quaint villages that seem straight out of a postcard.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling experiences, a serene retreat surrounded by nature, or simply a change of pace, a road trip through Switzerland offers it all. It’s an opportunity to break free from the routine of daily life, create unforgettable memories, and discover hidden gems along the way.
Navigating the intricate network of roads in Switzerland may seem daunting, especially when each twist and turn promises a breathtaking view. Our carefully curated list of the most scenic road trips in the country will save you time and worry, ensuring that you experience the very best that Switzerland has to offer.
Discover the Majestic Passes:
The Great St. Bernard’s Pass
As its name suggests, the Great St. Bernard’s Pass commands attention as it towers at an impressive altitude of 2469 meters. From this majestic vantage point, you can behold the world below in all its glory. The rugged slopes carpeted with lush greenery, the sun casting a brilliant glow on the tranquil lakes, and the captivating lands stretching to the horizon — the Great St. Bernard’s Pass elevates you to new heights. The journey to reach this magnificent pass is just over 170 kilometers from Bern, with Geneva being only a few additional kilometers away from its dizzying summit. With its impressive mix of steep cliffs, exhilarating hairpin bends, and enchanting tunnels, the Great St Bernard Pass offers breathtaking views of the majestic Alps, making it the ultimate Alpine mountain pass. This is the perfect road trip for drivers who enjoy cruising at a steady pace and soaking in the impressive, sometimes perilous, sights.
Furka Pass
The Furka Pass is a drive for the daring. With its winding stretches of grey road, brace yourself for a challenging experience as you navigate a total of 48 hairpin bends. Set against the backdrop of a formidable mountainside, approximately 150 kilometers from Zurich, this iconic pass was forever etched in cinematic history by an unforgettable car chase in the 1964 film “Goldfinger”— a thrilling experience you can now partake in yourself. Hire an Aston Martin DB5 and relive the excitement of that legendary drive through Furka Pass. This is a remarkable road trip, with views of glaciers, mountain tops and forested areas. Ideal for those who wish to discover the enchantment of the Furka Pass and let its breathtaking views and thrilling curves make a lasting impression on your Alpine adventure.
St. Gotthard Pass
The Gotthard Pass is typically open from June to October. Its cobbled streets and hairpin turns offer a striking contrast to the mountain’s tunnel, making it an ideal destination for a sports car adventure. Located a little over 120 kilometres from Zurich and approximately 180 kilometres from Basel, this mountain pass showcases a rugged facade and expansive greenery that extends into the horizon. Dotted along the ascent, you’ll discover charming cafes and local vendors, providing picturesque spots to unwind and soak in the surrounding scenery.
Simplon Pass
Spanning the Swiss-Italian border, Simplon Pass lies approximately 130 miles south of Bern. Here, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring vistas that tower above and reveal deep valleys below. Designed to harmonise with the mountain’s natural contours, this pass offers a gentler and more leisurely drive, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes that surround you. Its serene charm creates a delightful contrast to the exhilaration found in other passes, granting you a more enriching experience on Switzerland’s mountain roads.
Gurnigel Pass
Located just 40 kilometres south of Bern, you’ll find the Gurnigel Pass. This pass boasts narrow roads that wind through lush greenery and wooded areas, with towering mountains dominating the horizon. The smooth tarmac gracefully snakes through the landscape, offering a closer glimpse of the surrounding landscape due to its relatively low elevation. The immersive experience of Gurnigel Pass sets it apart from other passes known for their lofty heights, creating a truly distinctive adventure.
Flüela Pass
Flüela Pass, located just a little over 150 kilometres away from Zurich, is a captivating destination. Tucked away within a serene valley, this picturesque pass is home to a handful of villages, ensuring a smooth and seamless driving experience free from constant deceleration and acceleration over short distances. Starting from the northern end of Flüela Pass, the initial ascent takes you through a stunning alpine forest, where wide, sweeping bends merge into one another. Surrounded by the majestic presence of imposing mountain peaks and tranquil stretches of water, traversing the winding stretches of this alpine route is undeniably exhilarating. Ultimately, it culminates in an awe-inspiring drive that leaves a lasting impression.
Susten Pass
Experience the mesmerising beauty of the Susten Pass, a true treasure among the splendid mountain passes in the Swiss Alps. This pass provides the perfect terrain for supercars, featuring a serpentine ascent, stretches of smooth grey road, and sharp turns that make the journey truly captivating. As you ascend, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before your eyes, stretching endlessly into the horizon. Located just over 100 kilometres away from Bern, the Susten Pass is an unquestionably exhilarating experience from start to finish. If you decide to embark on the Susten Pass adventure, why not also explore the Grimsel and Furka passes? By seamlessly connecting these three Swiss mountain passes, you’ll have the opportunity to conquer the trio of the country’s finest roads in just under four hours.
ROLZO’s car recommendations
Switzerland’s mountain passes offer unparalleled beauty and an unmatched driving experience. ROLZO’s fleet of luxury cars enhances your journey across the gorgeous alpine landscapes. Whether you tear through Furka Pass in an Aston Martin Vantage, or cruise along Gotthard Pass from the comfort of a Bentley Continental GTC, an entire fleet awaits you. With our help, you can maximise your time and make the most of your Swiss road trip.
Are you ready to embark on a journey through Switzerland’s picturesque landscapes this summer? Make your Swiss adventure a reality with ROLZO.
