{"id":235127,"date":"2025-04-17T11:33:22","date_gmt":"2025-04-17T11:33:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/swissfederalism.ch\/passi-elvetici\/"},"modified":"2025-04-17T11:51:58","modified_gmt":"2025-04-17T11:51:58","slug":"swiss-passes-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/swissfederalism.ch\/en\/swiss-passes-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Opening Swiss Passes 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

Opening Swiss Passes 2025<\/span><\/h1>\n

With the arrival of spring, the Swiss Passes reopen to mountain and adventure enthusiasts. Between imposing peaks and enchanting valleys, these Alpine passes offer spectacular views and represent an essential link in the heart of the Alps.<\/em><\/span><\/h3>\n
\"San<\/a>
San Bernardino Pass Wa18, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Switzerland’s mountain passes have played a crucial role in the country’s history, serving as vital arteries for trade, migration and cultural exchange across the Alps. These passes have linked different regions, facilitating interaction between different cultures and economies.<\/p>\n

One of the most emblematic is the Gotthard Pass<\/strong>, often referred to as the ‘king of Alpine passes’. Located at 2,106 metres above sea level, it has historically represented a meeting point between different cultures and linguistic regions. Today, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore historic tunnels and immerse themselves in the region’s past.<\/p>\n

Another significant example is the Simplon Pass<\/strong>, known for being the first carriage road across the Alps. This pass facilitated trade and movement between north and south, underlining the strategic importance of Swiss passes in European history.<\/p>\n

At 2501 metres, the Umbrail Pass is the highest of the Alpine passes in Switzerland, followed by the Nufenen Pass<\/strong>, which reaches 2478 metres. The Great St. Bernard Pass<\/strong> (2473 m) in third place in terms of altitude with its 75 km, connects western Switzerland with Italy (Valle d’Aosta) from where one can reach the Col de l’Iseran in France, the highest Alpine pass in Europe (2770 m).<\/p>\n

Over time, these passes were the scene of important infrastructural developments, such as the construction of hospices and roads, which improved accessibility and safety for travellers and traders. Today, in addition to their historical importance, the Swiss passes attract many tourists, hikers and motorcyclists, eager to experience the challenges and beauty offered by these Alpine routes.<\/p>\n

PostBus symbol of Switzerland<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Bye-bye to FM radio in Switzerland arrives DAB+<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Berninapass<\/a>
Berninapass Pontresina with the iconic Bernina train Image by Leonhard Lenz, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Open all year round (except in adverse weather conditions)<\/span><\/h2>\n

In Switzerland, several Alpine passes remain open all year round, providing road connections even during the winter months. The highest of these is the Bernina Pass,<\/strong> located in Canton Graub\u00fcnden, which reaches an altitude of 2,330 metres and connects Val Poschiavo with the Engadine.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another significant pass open all year round is the Julier Pass<\/strong>, also in the canton of Graub\u00fcnden, which reaches an altitude of 2,284 metres and connects the Val Sursette with the Engadine.<\/span><\/p>\n

List of passes open all year round:<\/span><\/p>\n