Furka–Grimsel–Susten: Switzerland’s great three-pass loop

Three legendary passes, glaciers, reservoirs and curve after curve: the Furka–Grimsel–Susten loop is one of Switzerland’s most memorable mountain journeys. Each summer, from Hotel Tiefenbach, we watch motorcyclists, drivers and road cyclists set out to complete the circuit.

The 3,840 metres of ascent and descent come from Switzerland Tourism’s performance route data. That makes the circuit a serious challenge for cyclists; motorists should still allow ample time, stay focused and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

From Meiringen to Grimsel Pass

Meiringen in the Hasli valley is the classic starting point. The village is known for Reichenbach Falls, made famous by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories. From here, the road climbs for about 26 kilometres through rock, lakes and waterfalls to the 2,165-metre Grimsel Pass.

Reservoirs, dams and hydropower installations shape the Grimsel landscape, creating a striking meeting point between Alpine scenery and engineering heritage. Leave room in the schedule for photographs and a short break.

Via Gletsch to Furka Pass

After the short descent to Gletsch, a roughly ten-kilometre climb leads to Furka Pass. At about 2,430 metres, it is the highest point of the loop. The road opens onto wide views of the surrounding glacial landscape, including the Rhône Glacier.

A break or overnight stay at Hotel Tiefenbach

Hotel Tiefenbach stands between Furka Pass and Realp at 2,109 metres, directly beside the pass road. For travellers who want more than a rushed checklist of summits, it is a peaceful base for extra mountain days, with Alpine rooms, breakfast, optional half board, regional cooking and a small mineral and rock-crystal display.

Through the Meien valley to Susten Pass

Beyond Andermatt, the route continues through Wassen into the Meien valley. The road to the 2,264-metre Susten Pass gains about 1,308 metres over 17 kilometres. Its tighter valley, cliffs, streams and snow-covered summits give this section a character of its own.

From the pass, the long descent to Innertkirchen is one of the highlights of the circuit, with numerous bends and an excellent road surface. For road cyclists, the Susten is also known as the final pass of the Alpenbrevet.

Worthwhile stops along the way

Best season and safe planning

Switzerland Tourism lists May to October as the suitable season. In practice, snow, weather and road conditions determine when all three passes are open. Fog, rain or even snow can reach the summits while the valleys remain sunny.

One day is possible; two days are better

The loop can be driven in a day, but viewpoints, short detours and an overnight stop allow the mountains to become the experience rather than merely the backdrop. Hotel Tiefenbach is about 6.5 kilometres above Realp and offers free parking beside the Furka Pass road in summer.