Top 20 Mountain Passes around Andermatt
Mountain passes around Andermatt offer access to a significant network of routes in the Swiss Alps. Andermatt is a village in the heart of Switzerland, serving as a central point for exploring several high-alpine crossings. These passes connect different cantons and regions, providing routes through varied landscapes. The area is characterized by its geographic position at the crossroads of major alpine routes.
Best mountain passes around Andermatt
- The most popular mountain pass is Oberalp Pass, a mountain pass that connects the cantons of Uri and Grisons at an altitude of 2,046 meters. It features the Alps' only lighthouse, a replica of the original at the Rhine's mouth.
- Another must-see spot is Lukmanier Pass, a mountain pass located at an altitude of 1,926 meters between the cantons of Ticino and Grisons. It is known for its scenic road and relatively low traffic.
- Visitors also love Guex Monument at Gotthard Pass, a man-made monument located at the Gotthard Pass, which is at an altitude of 2,106 meters. This pass historically connected northern and southern Switzerland and was significant for pilgrims.
- Andermatt is known for mountain passes, historical sites, and viewpoints. The region offers a variety of mountain passes to explore, ranging from well-developed roads to historically significant routes.
- The mountain passes around Andermatt are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 860 upvotes and over 430 photos shared across 10 highlights.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Oberalp Pass
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Guex Monument at Gotthard Pass
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Lukmanier Pass
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Hairpin Turns on the Oberalp Pass
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But it doesn't hurt to take the descent slower, either. The view is breathtaking. And the final hairpin bends just before Andermatt are even more so.
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Old Hospice of St. Gotthard
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The St. Gotthard Pass was first used as a pass starting in the 13th century, and the hospice, built at the behest of Milanese Archbishop Galdino (1171), also dates from this period. A chapel was built alongside the hospice on the site of a small church dating back to the 9th/10th century.
It was rebuilt towards the end of the 18th century at the instigation of the Capuchins, who managed the hospice until 1799.
Text / Source: Agenzia turistica ticinese SA
ticino.ch/de/commons/details/Kapelle-beim-Gotthard-Hospiz/4741.html#:~:text=Der%20Sankt%20Gotthard%20wur de%20as%20Pass%C3%BCtransition%20first%20from,century%20,%20a%20chapel%20was%20built%20side%20of%20hospice%20.
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Tips from the Community
Cappella di San Gottardo - Chapel at the Gotthard Hospice The St. Gotthard Pass was first used as a pass starting in the 13th century, and the hospice, built at the behest of Milanese Archbishop Galdino (1171), also dates from this period. A chapel was built alongside the hospice on the site of a small church dating back to the 9th/10th century. It was rebuilt towards the end of the 18th century at the instigation of the Capuchins, who managed the hospice until 1799. Text / Source: Agenzia turistica ticinese SA https://www.ticino.ch/de/commons/details/Kapelle-beim-Gotthard-Hospiz/4741.html#:~:text=Der%20Sankt%20Gotthard%20wur de%20as%20Pass%C3%BCtransition%20first%20from,century%20,%20a%20chapel%20was%20built%20side%20of%20hospice%20.
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St. Gotthard Pass The Gotthard Pass divides waterways and connects various cultural and linguistic areas. Its significance as an "Alpine transversal" began at the beginning of the 13th century with the construction of the legendary Devil's Bridge in the Schöllenen Gorge. For many centuries, trade caravans (trading cattle and cheese for grain, wine, rice, and salt), mercenaries, messengers, and even entire armies crossed the pass. Between 1818 and 1836, the canton of Uri, with the help of other cantons, expanded the pass road, thus achieving its predominance among Swiss Alpine passes. The Gotthard Pass has significantly shaped the economy and culture of Central Switzerland for centuries. Until the opening of the Gotthard Railway in 1882, the Gotthard Pass was also used in winter. Dozens of roadmen and shovel workers were employed for this purpose. In 1922, the post bus replaced the stagecoach, and with the introduction of gasoline duties in 1923, the expansion of the pass roads began, continuing to this day. The old pass road on the south side, the Tremola between the top of the pass and Airolo, is still preserved and passable. This stretch of road recalls more tranquil journeys over the Gotthard that occurred not so long ago. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Gotthard Pass was "condensed" into a myth, a symbol of Switzerland's independence, unity, and identity. Text / Source: Interest Group for Alpine Passes IAP, PO Box 11, 6491 Realp https://alpen-paesse.ch/de/alpenpaesse/gotthardpass
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Scenic pass that is opened all year round (closes at 6pm in winter). There is hardly any traffic which makes cycling very nice and plenty of opportunities to take pictures. We crossed the pass in early May when there was still plenty of snow up there. The change in scenery where it was all green at Disentis and slowly turning white as we climbed higher... and very quickly turned to green as we rolled down on the south side to Biasca was breathtaking.
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very pretty here, very pretty
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very pretty here, very pretty
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The Lucomagno is one of the most famous Alpine passes in Switzerland. It is located between the cantons of Ticino and Grisons, at an altitude of 1,926 meters. The name seems to derive from the Latin "locus magnus", meaning "large, open place". It is often tackled in the professional race of the Tour of Switzerland.
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In summer, arrival by post bus from Andermatt or Airolo is possible.
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At the Oberalp Pass at 2,044 meters, not only is the obligatory "passport photo" waiting at the Oberalp Pass sign, but also the only lighthouse in the Alps. It comes from Rotterdam, where the original lighthouse can be found in the Maritime Museum, which once stood in Hoek van Holland, at the mouth of the Rhine into the North Sea - thus completing the circle from the source to the mouth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which mountain passes are particularly notable or popular around Andermatt?
Several mountain passes near Andermatt are highly regarded for their scenery and historical significance. The Oberalp Pass is known for its gentle ascent and the unique lighthouse at its summit. The Gotthard Pass, including the historic Guex Monument at Gotthard Pass, offers a deep dive into Swiss history and engineering, especially with its famous 'Tremola' cobbled road. Other significant passes include the Furka Pass, famous for its James Bond connection and views of the Rhone Glacier, and the Susten Pass, celebrated for its exceptional driving experience and views of the Steingletscher glacier.
What is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes around Andermatt?
The mountain passes around Andermatt are generally open from mid-May to the end of October. However, exact timings can vary depending on weather conditions, especially early or late in the season. Summer and early autumn offer the most reliable access and pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.
Are there family-friendly activities or passes suitable for families near Andermatt?
Yes, several passes offer family-friendly options. The Oberalp Pass is considered accessible with a gentle ascent and features the picturesque Oberalpsee lake, where fishing is possible. It's also a great starting point for a 1.5-hour walk to Lake Toma, the source of the Rhine. The Lukmanier Pass is also noted as family-friendly in visitor tips.
What historical sites can be explored on the mountain passes?
The Gotthard Pass is rich in history. You can visit the Guex Monument at Gotthard Pass, a significant landmark. The pass itself is a historically important route connecting northern and southern Switzerland, known for the 'Tremola' – its old cobbled road. The Old Hospice of St. Gotthard, dating back to the 13th century, also offers a glimpse into the past, having hosted pilgrims and travelers for centuries.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these mountain passes?
The region around Andermatt's mountain passes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking on routes like the 'Gotthard, Furka and Nufenen Passes' or 'Oberalp, Lukmanier and Gotthard Passes - Alpine passes round tour from Andermatt'. Cycling is popular, with tours such as 'Rheinquelle Lighthouse – Oberalp Pass loop from Andermatt'. For mountain biking, trails like 'Lutersee – Lake Oberalp loop from Andermatt' are available. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Andermatt, Cycling around Andermatt, and MTB Trails around Andermatt guides.
Are there specific hiking opportunities around the mountain passes?
Yes, many passes offer excellent hiking. From the Oberalp Pass, you can hike to Lake Toma, the source of the Rhine. The Susten Pass is a great starting point for a hike to the spectacular Trift Bridge. The Nufenen Pass is also well-suited for hikers and mountain bikers, with opportunities to trek to the source of the Ticino River. The Grimsel Pass area offers a thrilling ride on the Gelmerbahn funicular followed by a hike around Gelmer Lake.
What unique natural features can I expect to see?
The passes offer diverse natural beauty. At Oberalp Pass, you'll find the turquoise-blue Oberalpsee lake. The Furka Pass provides views of the Rhone Glacier and its ice grotto. The Susten Pass showcases lush alpine meadows, deep green forests, and the Steingletscher glacier. The Grimsel Pass features a wild, barren mountain landscape with granite rock and reservoirs, and is known as one of the richest mineral regions in the Alps. The Nufenen Pass offers panoramic views over snow-capped mountains and diverse nature in the Bedretto Valley, where ibex can sometimes be spotted.
How accessible are the mountain passes by public transport?
Many of the mountain passes around Andermatt can be accessed via PostBus tours, offering a convenient way to experience their beauty without a private vehicle. The Matterhorn Gotthard railway line also traverses the Oberalp Pass, with the 'Glacier Express' panoramic train reaching its highest point there.
What makes the Grimsel Pass a unique destination?
The Grimsel Pass stands out for its dramatic, rugged scenery, characterized by granite rock, reservoirs, and power stations. It's also one of the richest mineral regions in the Alps, with the Strahlermuseum in Guttannen showcasing rock crystals. A highlight is the thrilling ride on the Gelmerbahn, Europe's steepest funicular railway, followed by a hike around the turquoise Gelmer Lake.
What is special about the Nufenen Pass?
The Nufenen Pass is Switzerland's second-highest paved mountain pass, offering truly spectacular high-alpine vistas over snow-capped mountains and the Bedretto Valley. It's a fantastic spot for hikers and mountain bikers, providing opportunities to trek to the source of the Ticino River. It's also considered one of the best locations to watch the sunset in summer.
Can I find accommodation or dining options on the passes?
Yes, some passes offer facilities. For example, the Old Hospice of St. Gotthard on the Gotthard Pass provides comfortable accommodation and dining options. Many passes also have restaurants or cafes at their summits or nearby, offering refreshments and meals with scenic views.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the mountain passes around Andermatt?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views, the exhilarating driving or cycling experiences, and the sense of achievement after conquering a pass. The unique features like the lighthouse on Oberalp Pass, the historic 'Tremola' on Gotthard, and the cinematic connection of Furka Pass are often highlighted. The opportunity for diverse outdoor activities, from hiking to biking, also contributes to a memorable experience.
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