Bye-Bye, Gotthard Tunnel: Alternative Journeys to Italy and Southern France
Alternative travel paths are accessible through the Gotthard Tunnel. - Options to bypass the Gotthard Tunnel have been identified.
Here's the lowdown for all the weary travelers from Baden-Württemberg, hoping to dodge traffic mayhem during the holiday season: Say goodbye to the Gotthard Tunnel, the infamous Swiss congestion zone that snares around six million vehicles annually, according to ADAC.
If you find yourself stuck in a snarl-up ahead of this 16.9-kilometer monster, don't swear - just wait! Not just minutes, but hours! And when the tunnel is overwhelmed, panic management is in play. But don't panic! We've got you covered with these alternative routes to Italy and southern France (or if you're heading back to Deutschland).
San Bernardino Pass
If you're a fan of scenic alpine drives, the San Bernardino Tunnel on A13 should be your go-to detour. The route linking Chur and Bellinzona is a popular pick. ADAC reveals that German drivers typically use this 6.5-kilometer tube when hopping via A7 and A96 to Ticino or towards Milan, especially when hell hath no fury like Gotthard's waiting game.
For travelers setting off from Baden-Württemberg, veering through Basel or Zurich, this route shines like a beacon of hope when the blight of the Gotthard Tunnel delays you for an hour or more.
The Grand Gotthard
In the heat of summer, the historical Gotthard Pass saves the day for two-wheeled adventurers and cars without burdens. However, it's not as kind to vehicles burdened with caravans, as this steep and winding route is best left to those with fewer ties. Delays can bend time on the pass road during peak seasons. Fun fact: The Gotthard Pass usually closes from November to May due to winter conditions, according to the Touring Club Switzerland (TCS).
Other Alpine Detours
When the San Bernardino Pass is overwhelmed, the clever traveler opts for the Simplon Pass, recommended by the ADAC when other shortcuts are swamped. The Grimsel Pass, the Nufenen Pass, or the Grand St. Bernard route are also on the list, courtesy of the Touring Club Switzerland (TCS).
So there you have it, campers! Three cheers for the saner, swifter, and scenic detours around Switzerland, bypassing that wretched Gotthard Tunnel! Drive safe, and may all your drives be free from foul-ups!
- Gotthard Tunnel
- Alternative Routes
- San Bernardino Pass
- Gotthard Pass
- Simplon Pass
- Grimsel Pass
- Nufenen Pass
- Grand St. Bernard
- Driving Detours
- Italy
- Southern France
- Aldevmod
- Travel Advice
