Where is the Lötschberg Tunnel located?

The Lötschberg is located in the south of the Swiss canton of Bern and borders the canton of Valais. The Lötschberg Tunnel has a length of 14,600 meters (14.6 km) and was opened in 1913. It is a single-tube double-track tunnel with a gradient of 7% on the northern side and 3.8% on the southern side, while the gradient in the central section is 0%. The passage takes approximately 15 minutes, and the tunnel can accommodate around 80 vehicles at the same time.

History

During the planning phase, various concepts were developed to pass beneath the approximately 3,500-meter-high Alps. These typically included a long summit tunnel in the Gasterntal valley as well as additional tunnel sections. The tunnel was initially planned as a single-track structure with a 500-meter-long passing loop for train crossings. The first survey took place on July 14, 1906. After the death of the original surveyor, the measurements were repeated on October 1 of the same year. Construction began on October 15, 1906. Shortly thereafter, work started in Goppenstein and one day later in Kandersteg on the northern side. In August 1907, the expansion to a double-track tunnel was approved. The Lötschberg line was officially opened to public traffic on July 15, 1913.

Surroundings of the Lötschberg Tunnel

Numerous mountains surround the Lötschberg Tunnel, including First, Chlyne Lohner, Lohner, Innerer Fisistock, Doldenhorn, and Altels. This alpine landscape is characterized by extensive forest areas such as the Gasterntal valley.

Lötschberg Tunnel: Car Shuttle Trains (Vehicle Transport)

The Lötschberg Tunnel is not a conventional road tunnel but is used as part of a car shuttle service. These shuttle trains transport travelers together with their vehicles quickly through the Alps and provide a convenient alternative to mountain passes. The connection operates within Switzerland between Kandersteg and Goppenstein. Trains run every 30 minutes during the day, and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes.

Using the Lötschberg car shuttle service involves additional fees, regardless of the vignette requirement or heavy vehicle charge. Further information about procedures, ticket purchase, and important details can be found in our article on car shuttle trains (vehicle transport).

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.