Oberalp Pass
About this road
The Oberalp at 2,044m links Andermatt to Sedrun and the start of the Rhine valley. It's the easiest of the central Swiss passes — wide, well-surfaced, and rarely congested. That makes it a good warm-up or connector road rather than a destination in its own right. The Glacier Express railway runs alongside and crosses the road at several points. The lake at the summit is photogenic. Best combined with the Furka for an Andermatt-based loop. Surface is excellent with clear markings throughout.
Where this road fits
- Part of
- Switzerland
- Category
- Alpine passes
- Featured in itineraries
- Swiss Big Three in 3 Days: Furka, Grimsel, Susten,Grand Tour of Switzerland in 7 Days
Frequently asked questions
When is the Oberalp Pass open?
The Oberalp Pass is open year-round, though conditions vary with the seasons. Check the current status panel before heading out.
How long does it take to drive the Oberalp Pass?
The Oberalp Pass is 32 km long. At a steady mountain pace, expect roughly 32 minutes behind the wheel — plus photo stops.
Can I drive the Oberalp Pass in a lowered or sports car?
Yes — the surface is excellent and the difficulty is easy. Lowered and wide-body cars are comfortable on the Oberalp Pass, provided you take transitions smoothly.
Is there a toll on the Oberalp Pass?
No toll is required for the Oberalp Pass. A valid motorway vignette may still apply on the roads you use to reach it.
What's the best time of day to drive the Oberalp Pass?
Early morning is unbeatable on the Oberalp Pass. Tourist coaches, cyclists and slow-moving caravans build up from mid-morning; first light also gives the cleanest photos. If you can only go in the afternoon, aim for after 17:00 when traffic thins again.
At a glance
- Elevation
- 2,044m
- Length
- 32 km
- Hairpins
- 12
- Surface
- Excellent
- Difficulty
- easy
Car suitability
Current conditions
No recent reports — be the first to report conditions on this road.
From the community
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