Where is the Belchen Tunnel located?
The Belchen Tunnel is an approximately 3,200-meter (3.2 km) long three-tube motorway tunnel located on the Swiss A2 motorway between Eptingen and Hägendorf, connecting the cantons of Basel-Landschaft and Solothurn. It represents one of the most important north-south connections between Germany and the Basel region. Before the Belchen Tunnel was opened, traffic from northwestern Switzerland and Germany was primarily routed via rural roads and the passes of the Upper and Lower Hauenstein.
Due to the high traffic volume, particularly in the area around the Liestal city gate, the construction of a new national road including a tunnel became necessary. Construction work began in 1960, and in 1970 the tunnel was officially opened to car, motorcycle, and heavy goods vehicle traffic.
Technical note: The northern portal of the tunnel is located at approximately 605 meters above sea level, while the southern portal lies slightly higher at around 610 meters. Due to the high pressure exerted by the surrounding mountain, structural damage became visible at an early stage. As a result, extensive renovation works were required between 2001 and 2003, during which one tunnel tube was temporarily closed at a time.
How many tubes does the Belchen Tunnel have?
The Belchen Tunnel consists of a total of three tubes. However, the third tube is not used for regular traffic but is reserved for operational purposes such as emergency services, diversions, and maintenance work. This approach significantly facilitates maintenance operations and helps to minimize traffic disruptions and congestion.
Is the Belchen Tunnel subject to tolls?
Use of the Belchen Tunnel is subject to the vignette requirement for vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW or the obligation to pay the heavy vehicle charge for vehicles over 3.5 t GVW. Therefore, the tunnel is subject to tolls, and appropriate authorization is required for its use.
Unlike special toll tunnels such as the Great St. Bernard Tunnel or the Munt La Schera Tunnel, no additional fees are charged beyond the vignette or the paid heavy vehicle charge. The Belchen Tunnel is not considered 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 Belchen Tunnel
Is the Belchen Tunnel subject to tolls?
The Belchen Tunnel is part of the A2 motorway between Eptingen and Hägendorf. To use the tunnel, a vignette is required, which can be purchased as a sticker at petrol stations or conveniently online as a digital version via us. Vehicles weighing over 3.5 t GVW are exempt from the vignette requirement and must instead pay a heavy vehicle charge. Further information can be found in our guide on the heavy vehicle charge.
Is the Belchen Tunnel subject to special tolls?
No, although the Belchen Tunnel is subject to tolls, it is not subject to special tolls. Special tolls only apply to certain tunnels such as the Munt La Schera Tunnel and the Great St. Bernard Tunnel. Further information can be found in our guide on special tolls.
