Furka Pass
Switzerland, europe
38 km
2,429 m
moderate
June to October
The Furka Pass is a high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps, reaching 2,429 meters above sea level and connecting the cantons of Valais and Uri. The road stretches approximately 38 kilometers from Gletsch to Hospental and passes close to the Rhone Glacier, the source of the Rhone River. The pass gained cinematic fame when it was featured in the James Bond film Goldfinger in 1964, with the famous car chase scene filmed along its sweeping curves.
The road climbs through a landscape that transitions from lush green valleys to stark alpine terrain. The Rhone Glacier, once easily visible from the road, has been retreating significantly due to climate change, though it remains one of the area's main attractions. An artificial ice grotto is carved into the glacier each year, allowing visitors to walk inside the blue ice. The Hotel Belvedere, perched above the glacier at a hairpin bend, has become an iconic landmark, though it has been closed in recent years.
The Furka Pass is part of a popular touring circuit that includes the Grimsel Pass and the Susten Pass, known collectively as a magnificent Alpine triple pass route. The road is open from June to October and features well-maintained asphalt with proper guardrails. The Furka railway tunnel provides a year-round alternative for crossing the pass, while the historic Furka Steam Railway operates a nostalgic steam-powered train service over the pass during summer months.
Where is it?
Furka Pass is located in Valais / Uri, Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.5726, 8.4145
Driving Tips
Open June to October. Combine with Grimsel and Susten passes for a full day Alpine loop. Visit the Rhone Glacier ice grotto. Watch for motorcyclists on weekends.
Road Surface
Paved asphalt
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Region
- Valais / Uri
- Length
- 38 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,429 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Surface
- Paved asphalt
- Best Season
- June to October
- Coordinates
- 46.5726, 8.4145
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