Hitting the Road: Evading the Gridlock at the Gotthard Tunnel
Aviable detours for the Gotthardtunnel are available - Avenues Exist for Diversion around Gotthard Tunnel
Hey there, road wanderer! If you're embarking on a journey from Baden-Württemberg during holiday seasons, you'll want to gear up for a test of patience. The infamous Gotthard Tunnel is your likely destination, clocking in six million yearly visitors and causing considerable congestion.
According to ADAC, the Gotthard Tunnel is one of Switzerland's greatest traffic bottlenecks. Finding yourself stuck in traffic before this 16.9-kilometer long tube doesn't just mean a minor delay—it could mean hours of waiting. When traffic reaches its limit, traffic light control may be enforced. But fear not, as alternative routes await:
San Bernardino
Systematic, seasoned travelers often prefer the San Bernardino Tunnel via the A13. This appealing detour stretches between Chur and Bellinzona. The A7 and A96 routes, heading towards Ticino or Milan, are commonly used by German drivers via the 6.5-kilometer-long tube between Hinterrhein and San Bernardino.
People starting their journey in Baden-Württemberg via Basel or Zurich often find this route alluring when the wait at the Gotthard Tunnel extends to an hour or more.
Gotthard Pass
For history enthusiasts and motorcycle lovers, the historic Gotthard Pass beckons, particularly during the summer months. However, this route may not be suitable for vehicles with trailers due to its steep and winding nature. Delays may also occur on the pass road during peak holiday seasons. According to the Touring Club Switzerland, the pass is typically closed due to winter conditions between November and May.
Other Alpine Passes
When the Gotthard Tunnel is overloaded, the Simplon Pass—especially when approached from Basel or Zurich—emerges as a dependable alternative. The picturesque Grimsel Pass, the adventurous Nufenen Pass, or the traversing Great St. Bernard Pass are additional routes to consider.
- Gotthard Tunnel
- Traffic
- Baden-Württemberg
- ADAC
- Holiday Season
- Vehicle
- Switzerland
- San Bernardino
- Stuttgart
- Car
- Italy
- Southeastern France
- Germany
