Avenues offered as contingencies for the Gotthard Tunnel travel - Alternative paths lead to the Gotthard Tunnel.
Hey there! If you're planning a journey from Baden-Württemberg towards the southern regions during peak holiday seasons, get ready for one thing - traffic, especially at the infamous Gotthard Tunnel. With approximately six million vehicles using it annually, it's no surprise that standing still before this 16.9-kilometer-long tube isn't a rare occurrence, according to the ADAC.
But fear not! When patience wears thin, there are alternative routes to Italy, southern France, or even back to Germany. Here's a lowdown on some of the best options:
San Bernardino Tunnel (A13 Highway)
The San Bernardino Tunnel on the A13 is a widely recommended detour, particularly for travelers heading south from eastern Switzerland or the Zurich region. However, like any popular route, it can also be prone to delays and incidents, just like those that caused jams in the past years. Pro tip: If you're coming from Baden-Württemberg and face a waiting time of over an hour at the Gotthard Tunnel, the San Bernardino route is your friend.
Gotthard Pass
For the road warriors who love a good alpine challenge, the historical Gotthard Pass is an alternative, especially for motorcyclists or those with cars without trailers. But remember, this route isn't for everyone. With its steep and winding nature, it's not suitable for vehicles with caravans, and it can experience delays during the peak holiday season. Plus, it's usually closed due to winter conditions between November and May.
Simplon Pass and Other Mountain Passes
When the going gets tough at the Gotthard Tunnel, take the road less traveled, like the Simplon Pass, which leads towards the Valais region in southwestern Switzerland. Other scenic options include the Grimsel Pass, the Nufenen Pass, or the Great St. Bernard Pass. However, these passes can be more challenging due to their length and poor weather conditions, so do check their status before you go.
Remember, timing is crucial when driving during peak holiday periods. Fridays and Saturdays afternoons see the most congestion at Gotthard, with queues sometimes stretching over 20 kilometers. To avoid the rush, start your journey early in the morning on Fridays or delay it until Sunday night. For return journeys, an early morning on Monday or an overnight Monday-Tuesday is best.
Stay prepared for possible delays, even on alternative routes, and consider the weather and your vehicle's capabilities before hitting the road. And hey, if you fancy a scenic rail journey, the Glacier Express and Gotthard Tunnel Train routes are open for business!
So, pack your patience, choose your route wisely, and enjoy the journey!
Some fine print: Always double-check key factors like road closures, real-time traffic status, and vehicle suitability before setting off on your adventure.
Happy travels! 🚀
- To mitigate traffic congestion at the Gotthard Tunnel during peak holiday seasons, travelers might consider adhering to the community policy of setting off early in the morning on Fridays or delaying their journey until Sunday night for outbound journeys, or an early morning on Monday or an overnight Monday-Tuesday for return journeys.
- Given the extensive use of the Gotthard Tunnel by six million vehicles annually, it is essential to establish and uphold thorough employment policies for the maintenance and safety of the transportation industry, ensuring smooth functionality and minimizing traffic delays.
- For those who prefer scenic railway journeys, financing an alternative travel solution such as the Glacier Express and Gotthard Tunnel Train routes could contribute to a more enjoyable lifestyle, by avoiding the hassle of potential traffic jams and alleviating stress associated with automotive travel.
