Furka Pass- The New #TravelGoals

The Furka Pass is a scenic mountain pass in Switzerland that connects the cantons of Uri and Valais. At an elevation of 2,429 meters (7,969 ft), it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

One of the highlights of the Furka Pass is the Belvedere viewpoint, which offers an unparalleled view of the Rhone Glacier and the surrounding mountain peaks. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the Belvedere viewpoint and everything else you need to know about visiting the Furka Pass.

Getting to the Furka Pass

The Furka Pass is located in central Switzerland and is accessible by car or public transportation. The pass is closed during the winter months due to snow, but it usually opens in late spring and remains open until late fall.

The most common way to get to the Furka Pass is by car, and there are several scenic routes you can take to get there. The closest major cities are Zurich and Geneva, which are both about a three-hour drive away.

If you don’t have access to a car, you can also take public transportation to the Furka Pass. The nearest train station is in Andermatt, which is about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from the pass. From Andermatt, you can take a bus or taxi to the pass. Another option is to take the Glacier Express train, which runs from Zermatt to St.

Moritz and passes through the Furka Pass. This is a popular way to see the scenery of the Swiss Alps and the pass, but it can be expensive and requires advanced booking.

Exploring the Furka Pass

The Furka Pass is a beautiful area to explore, with plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives to take in the views. There are several small towns and villages along the pass where you can stop for a meal or a drink. The area is also popular for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.

One of the most popular attractions on the Furka Pass is the Rhone Glacier. The glacier is located on the eastern side of the pass and is accessible by foot or by cable car. Visitors can take a guided tour of the glacier and learn about its history and formation.

The Belvedere viewpoint is another must-see attraction on the Furka Pass. The viewpoint is located on the western side of the pass and offers a panoramic view of the Rhone Glacier and the surrounding mountains. To get to the viewpoint, you can park at the Belvedere parking lot and take a short walk up to the viewpoint. The walk is relatively easy and takes about 10 minutes.

The Belvedere viewpoint

The Belvedere viewpoint is one of the most popular attractions on the Furka Pass. The viewpoint is located at an altitude of 2,295 meters (7,530 ft) and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Rhone Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The viewpoint was built in 1882 and has been a popular destination for tourists ever since.

From the Belvedere viewpoint, you can see the Rhone Glacier and the ice cave, which is accessible by foot. The ice cave is a unique attraction that allows visitors to walk inside the glacier and see its stunning blue ice formations up close. The cave is open from June to October, and guided tours are available.

In addition to the glacier and the ice cave, the Belvedere viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the Dammastock, the Furkahorn, and the Tiefenstock. There are several hiking trails that start from the viewpoint, including the Panorama Trail and the Rhone Glacier Trail. These trails offer different perspectives of the glacier and the surrounding mountains and are suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Another way to experience the Belvedere viewpoint is by taking the Furka Steam Railway. This historic train runs from Realp to Oberwald and passes by the Belvedere viewpoint, offering a unique and nostalgic way to see the scenery of the Furka Pass. The train operates from June to October and requires advanced booking.

The Belvedere viewpoint is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is mild and the hiking trails are open. It’s important to note that the weather on the Furka Pass can be unpredictable, and it’s a good idea to bring warm clothing and rain gear, even in the summer.

Other things to do on the Furka Pass

In addition to the Belvedere viewpoint and the Rhone Glacier, there are several other attractions and activities to enjoy on the Furka Pass. Here are a few of our top picks:

The Gletschergarten: This small museum and botanical garden is located on the eastern side of the Furka Pass and offers a glimpse into the history and geology of the area. Visitors can see a collection of local plants and rocks and learn about the formation of the Rhone Glacier.

The Galerie Alpina: This art gallery is located in the village of Hospental and features works by local and international artists. The gallery is housed in a historic building and offers a unique cultural experience on the Furka Pass.

Hiking and biking: The Furka Pass is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking, with plenty of trails to explore. Some popular trails include the Panorama Trail, the Rhone Glacier Trail, and the Grimselpass to Furkapass Trail.

Skiing and snowboarding: During the winter months, the Furka Pass is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. There are several ski resorts in the area, including Andermatt, which offers over 120 kilometers (75 miles) of ski runs.

Where to stay on the Furka Pass

There are several options for accommodation on the Furka Pass, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are a few of our top picks:

Hotel Belvedere: This historic hotel is located at the Belvedere viewpoint and offers stunning views of the Rhone Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar, and a sauna, and is a popular destination for hikers and skiers.

Hotel Glacier du Rhone: This hotel is located near the Rhone Glacier and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel also has a terrace with views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains.

Mountain Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the village of Gletsch and offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. The hostel has a restaurant and a bar, and is a popular destination for backpackers and hikers.

The Furka Pass and the Belvedere viewpoint are a must-see destination for anyone visiting Switzerland. With stunning scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and a range of accommodation options, there’s something for everyone on the Furka Pass.

Whether you’re a hiker, a skier, or just looking for a scenic drive, the Furka Pass is sure to impress. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain passes.