Andermatt to Davos Road Trip: Alps Guide

The drive from Andermatt to Davos covers about 120 kilometers (75 miles) via the Oberalp Pass (A2/E35) and then through the Graubünden Alps. This route crosses the historic Via Mala gorge, where Roman legions once marched, and today you'll encounter the famous Landwasser Viaduct – a UNESCO World Heritage segment of the Rhaetian Railway – although the viaduct itself is not a road, it's a short detour.

Estimated driving time is 1 hour 50 minutes without stops, but expect 3–4 hours with photo breaks. The journey climbs from 1,447m (Andermatt) to 2,044m (Oberalp Pass) before descending into the Rhine Gorge and finally reaching Davos at 1,560m.

One local driving quirk: on the Oberalp Pass, watch for grazing cows that occasionally wander onto the road in summer. The pass is closed in winter, but the alternative route via the Furka Tunnel and A13 keeps you moving year-round. For detailed advice on discovering lesser-known stops, see our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Geographical Shifts

The route begins in the Urseren Valley, a high alpine plateau surrounded by 3,000m peaks. As you climb the Oberalp, you pass through a treeless tundra with small lakes (Lai da Tuma, source of the Rhine). The descent into the Surselva region reveals lush pine forests and the Rhine Gorge (Swiss Grand Canyon), a dramatic limestone canyon.

• Andermatt to Oberalp: Alpine meadows, marmots, and edelweiss.
• Oberalp to Sedrun: Larch forests, waterfalls (Punt Russein).
• Thusis to Davos: Narrow gorge, then wide valley with mountain resorts.

Local Commerce and Culture

Regional products are worth purchasing along the way. At the Oberalp Passhüs (summer only), buy Alp cheese and dried meats. In Sedrun, the village market (Saturday mornings) sells Bündner Nusstorte (nut pastry) and Engadine walnut liqueur. Near Thusis, the Viamala Gorge visitor center offers local honey and woodcarvings. For authentic souvenirs, stop at the PostAuto bus stop shop in Tschamut for handmade wool socks.

Culinary Infrastructure

Roadside eateries range from mountain huts to traditional restaurants. Top picks:

• Oberalp Passhüs (2,044 m): Swiss rösti and mulled wine.
• Restaurant Alpsu (Sedrun): Capuns (chard rolls) and Pizokel.
• Thusis: Hotel Stern (Michelin-starred? No, but excellent Bündnerfleisch).
• Davos: Bündnerstübli (Engadine barley soup).

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

The A13 is a modern motorway with excellent tarmac and guardrails. The Oberalp Pass road (19) is narrower but well-maintained; watch for gravel and livestock. In winter, the pass is closed; use the Furka Tunnel (A2). Night illumination is present only on the A13 and in towns; the pass has no lights. Safety tips:

• Use low beams in tunnels.
• Carry snow chains in winter (mandatory in some sections).
• Watch for bikers on hairpin bends (especially on the pass).

Family and Child Suitability

Several stops cater to families. In Sedrun, the Trimoda adventure park (summer) has zip lines and climbing. The Rhine Gorge viewpoint near Ilanz offers a short, safe trail for kids. For indoor fun, the Viamala Gorge visitor center has a children’s quiz. In Davos, the Kirchner Museum has family workshops. A full list of family stops:

• Sedrun: Adventure Park.
• Thusis: Viamala Gorge quiz.
• Davos: Wintersport Museum (interactive sledging exhibit).

Pet-Friendly Framework

Dogs are welcome in many outdoor areas. Safe walking spots:

• Lai da Tuma (dog can swim).
• Sedrun: Surteiras hiking path (leash required).
• Thusis: Rhine riverside trail (off-leash allowed in sections).

• Andermatt: Café zum Anker (water bowl provided).
• Sedrun: Bistro Grischuna (dog treats).
• Davos: Café Schneider (indoor area for dogs).

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Fatigue is a risk on long mountain drives. Official rest areas:

• Oberalp Passhüs (restaurant, toilets, panoramic views).
• Sedrun: Rastplatz Lutersee (picnic tables, shade).
• A13 rest area “Heinzenberg” (toilets, vending machines).

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Within a 5-minute drive from the main highway:

• The abandoned hamlet of “Waltensburg/Vuorz” (exit Ruschein): a deserted medieval village with free access.
• Small mineral spring “Schwefelbad” near Trin (exit Trin Mulin): free thermal water drinking station.
• The Roman watchtower “Wachturm” at Viamala Gorge (exit Zillis): ancient ruins with interpretive panels.

Climatic Conditions and Route Aesthetics

Weather varies drastically by altitude. The Oberalp Pass can have snow even in June (average June temperature: 5°C). In autumn, fog often fills the Rhine Gorge, creating eerie photo ops. For sunset views:

• Oberalp Pass: golden light on the peak of Piz Dado.
• Thusis: Viewing platform “Viamala” (sunset behind the gorge).
• Davos: Lake Davos (sunset reflecting on mountains).

Road Names and Toll Systems

The primary route uses the A2/E35 from Andermatt to the Oberalp Pass, then the main road 19 to Sedrun, followed by the A13/E43 to Davos. No tolls apply on these Swiss roads, but you must purchase a vignette (CHF 40) for the motorway sections. Pass tunnels (Furka, Muttsee) are toll-free.

• Andermatt to Oberalp Pass: 19 km, 25 min twisty ascent.
• Oberalp Pass to Sedrun: 15 km, 20 min descent with hairpin turns.
• Sedrun to Davos: 86 km, 1h on A13 expressway.

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel stations are sparse on the pass section. The best stops:

• Andermatt: Agip and BP stations at village entrance.
• Sedrun: Coop Pronto (open daily).
• Thusis: Large Shell before Davos.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The Rhaetian Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, runs parallel to the road through the Albula and Bernina passes. While driving, a short detour to the Landwasser Viaduct (off exit 17, Filisur) offers a breathtaking view. The site includes the railway line from Thusis to Tirano, but the viaduct is the most photogenic spot. This is the only UNESCO-related attraction within 10 km of the route.