The best motorcycle passes in Switzerland
The short answer
The best motorcycle passes in Switzerland are the Furka (2,429 m), Grimsel (2,164 m) and Susten (2,260 m), which together make the classic three-pass loop, plus the Nufenen (2,478 m) and the cobbled Tremola on the Gotthard. They're usually open from June to October. Swiss speed fines are high, so ride the limits.
Switzerland packs more high passes into a small area than anywhere else in the Alps. From Andermatt you can ride four of them before lunch.
At a glance
| Pass | Connects | Highest point | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nufenen | Valais to Ticino | 2,478 m | Highest paved pass inside Switzerland |
| Furka | Uri to Valais | 2,429 m | Glacier views, the Rhône source |
| Susten | Bern to Uri | 2,260 m | Wide, fast, tunnels and sweepers |
| Grimsel | Bern to Valais | 2,164 m | Reservoirs and granite |
| Gotthard (Tremola) | Uri to Ticino | 2,106 m | Historic cobbled hairpins |
The three-pass loop: Grimsel, Furka, Susten
The most famous ride in Switzerland is a loop of about 120 km:
- From Innertkirchen up the Grimsel past the reservoirs.
- Down to Gletsch and straight up the Furka, past the old Hotel Belvedere at the Rhône Glacier.
- Down to Andermatt, then over the Susten back to Innertkirchen.
It's a full day with photo stops. Start early to beat the traffic on the Furka.
The Tremola
The old road over the Gotthard, from Airolo, is cobbled for most of its climb, with tight hairpins stacked on top of each other. It's slow, bumpy and unforgettable. The modern road beside it is faster if you're in a hurry.
Nufenen
The highest paved pass entirely inside Switzerland. Combine it with the Gotthard and Furka for a loop from Andermatt.
Good to know
- Speed limits are strict and fines are calculated on how far over you were. Some offences mean a ban or worse. Ride the limits.
- Swiss motorways need a vignette, also for motorcycles.
- Postbuses have right of way on mountain roads. Their three-tone horn means pull over.
Season
Most high passes open in June and close in October or November. The Furka and Nufenen often open later than the others.
Ride them with others
Swiss passes are best with a group that likes to stop for views. Find a ride from Andermatt or Meiringen in MotoBFF, or post one.
Questions riders ask
What is the best motorcycle loop in Switzerland?
The Grimsel, Furka and Susten loop from Innertkirchen, about 120 km over three passes.
When are the Swiss passes open?
Usually from June to October. Check the status of each pass before you go.
Do I need a vignette for a motorcycle in Switzerland?
Yes, for motorways. The mountain passes themselves are free.
Is the Tremola open to motorcycles?
Yes. The cobbled old Gotthard road is open in summer to all traffic.