
Can you drive to Oberalp Pass?
Switzerland, europe
32 km
2,000 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for the Oberalp Pass! This epic Swiss Alp adventure straddles the line between Graubünden and Uri cantons, topping out at a cool 2,048m (6,719ft).
You bet your wheels can handle it! Route 19, the fully paved pathway to the summit (also called Alpsu d'Ursera or Oberalppass if you're feeling fancy), is ready and waiting.
Picture this: the road was carved back in 1862/63, making it a true vintage experience. The 32km (almost 20 miles) stretch from Disentis to Andermatt packs a punch, with gradients hitting a maximum of 10% in some spots. This isn't the busiest pass around, so you can enjoy the twists and turns with a bit more breathing room.
Heads up though: Mother Nature usually closes the road from late October until late April or even mid-May, so plan your trip accordingly.
Oh, and get this – there's a freaking lighthouse at the summit! Yep, a 14-meter beacon standing tall above 2000 meters, twinned with Rotterdam's Hoek van Holland lighthouse. It's there as a symbol of being the source of the Rhine River.
While you're up there, take a moment to soak in the views. Just remember Nufenen Pass, is another one of Switzerland's highest paved roads!
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 32 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,000 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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