25 bridges and tunnels to Susten Pass in the Alps
Susten Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,264m (7,428ft) above sea level, located in Switzerland. It’s one of the most famous Alpine roads in Switzerland.
Where is Susten Pass?
Located on the border between Uri and Bern cantons, the pass links the Reuss Valley with the Hasli Valley. Near Innertkirchen, the Susten Pass road meets the Grimsel Pass road. The pass is part of what’s known as the "Big 3" passes of the central Swiss Alps: the Susten Pass, Grimsel Pass, and Furka Pass.
When was Susten Pass built?
The first road over the pass was a mule-train trading route built in the 17th century. In 1811, the first stretch was opened, and the road was built between 1938 and 1945. Opened on 7 September 1946, it was the first pass road to be purpose-built for vehicular traffic. With its 25 bridges and 25 tunnels, it was regarded at the time as one of the most beautiful roads in Europe. A 300-meter-long tunnel crosses the pass.
How long is Susten Pass?
The road to the summit, also known as Passo del Susten and Sustenpass, is entirely paved. It’s called Road 11. The pass is 44km (27 miles) long, running east-west from Wassen (in the canton of Uri) to Innertkirchen (in the canton of Bern).
Is Susten Pass challenging?
The road is very winding and curvy, with bridges, tunnels, and occasionally tight curves. It’s a pretty steep climb, hitting a 10% maximum gradient through some of the ramps. The eastern and western approaches are approximately equally difficult, with the eastern one being a bit longer but flatter. Both the ascent and descent are equally thrilling. The drive offers stunning views of the Stein Glacier on the south side. In "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (1969), the Susten Pass was where a snowplough, a dead sheep and lots of red colouring delivered the spectacularly gory demise of yet another Bond pursuer.
Is Susten Pass closed?
Set high in the Swiss Alps, at the foot of the Gotthard mountain, the pass usually remains closed from the beginning of November until June and is closed daily from 18:00 to 08:00.