Kerenzerberg Tunnel
The Kerenzerberg Tunnel (also called the Kerenzer Tunnel) is a road tunnel opened in 1986 with a length of nearly 6 kilometers. It runs through the Kerenzerberg along Lake Walen. With a total length of 5,760 meters, it is considered the fifth-longest road tunnel in Switzerland. The tunnel is generally used in only one direction – from Zurich towards Sargans/Chur. It is part of the A3 motorway from Zurich to Sargans and relieves traffic on the Walensee road, which runs along Lake Walen in both directions. In the opposite direction, the A3 runs directly along Lake Walen through six smaller tunnels. The Kerenzerberg Tunnel runs parallel to the Kerenzerberg railway tunnel, which is almost 4 kilometers long and was opened in 1960.
Lake Walen
Lake Walen is a mountain lake located in the cantons of St. Gallen and Glarus and is a popular tourist destination in Switzerland. With a length of 15.5 kilometers and a width of around 2 kilometers, it is the twelfth-largest lake in Switzerland and is often referred to as the “Riviera of Eastern Switzerland.” Due to its clear water and a maximum depth of 150 meters, Lake Walen is particularly popular among scuba divers. In addition, the region offers attractive hiking trails as well as impressive lake and mountain scenery. Travelers can reach Lake Walen quickly via the A3 motorway from Zurich.
Renovation of the Kerenzerberg Tunnel
The Kerenzerberg Tunnel is currently undergoing renovation. This project represents the first comprehensive refurbishment since the tunnel opened in 1986. The renovation works are planned for the period from 2020 to 2026. As part of the project, a safety tunnel running parallel to the main tunnel is being added. The breakthrough for this safety tunnel took place in September 2022. Once the safety tunnel has been completed, further extensive renovation work will follow, with the overall refurbishment expected to be completed in 2026.
During the construction work, the Kerenzer Tunnel remains accessible during the daytime. However, the tunnel is regularly closed at night (generally on weekdays between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM). Temporary full closures may also occur during the day. Information about current closures can be found on the official website.
Is the Kerenzerberg Tunnel subject to tolls?
Use of the Kerenzerberg Tunnel requires a Swiss vignette for vehicles up to 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of more than 3.5 tons are subject to the heavy vehicle fee. Therefore, using this route is generally subject to toll regulations, meaning that you must have a valid vignette or pay the heavy vehicle fee.
Unlike special toll tunnels such as the Great St. Bernard Tunnel or the Munt-La-Schera Tunnel, no additional fees are required. This means that no extra payment is necessary in addition to the vignette or the already paid heavy vehicle fee. The Kerenzerberg Tunnel is not a special toll route.
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Trip
We wish you a pleasant journey to the Czech Republic and lots of enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country’s impressive landscapes. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your trip optimally and display the relevant toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to assist you. You can contact us at any time by email.
FAQ about the Kerenzerberg Tunnel
Is the Kerenzerberg Tunnel subject to tolls?
The Kerenzer Tunnel is part of the A3 motorway / national road connecting Zurich and Sargans. To use the Kerenzerberg Tunnel, you only need a Swiss vignette. This can be purchased as a sticker vignette at gas stations or conveniently online as a digital vignette. If your vehicle weighs more than 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight, the vignette requirement does not apply and you must instead pay the heavy vehicle fee. Further information about the heavy vehicle fee can be found in our guide.
How long is the Kerenzerberg Tunnel?
The Kerenzerberg Tunnel has a total length of 5,760 meters.
Can the Kerenzer Tunnel be used during the construction work?
The Kerenzerberg Tunnel generally remains open during the renovation works. However, the tunnel is usually closed at night from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM, and temporary closures may also occur during the day. Further details can be found on the official website.
