Switzerland and the Alps are, without exaggeration, one of the most spectacular landscapes you can travel through in a motorhome: postcard mountains, impossibly turquoise lakes, glaciers, fairy-tale villages and alpine roads that are an experience in themselves. It's an expensive destination, but an unforgettable one. Here's what you need to know to enjoy it (and avoid any nasty surprises).
The key heads-up: the vignette
To drive on Swiss motorways you need the vignette, an annual toll sticker. It's bought at the border or in advance, and driving without one gets you fined. Factor it into your budget. [Note: cost and how to obtain the current vignette.]
What to see
- The Jungfrau region (Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen): waterfalls, peaks and the "roof of Europe".
- Zermatt and the Matterhorn: the Alps' most iconic mountain (Zermatt is car-free; park before you arrive).
- The great lakes: Geneva, Lucerne, Lugano.
- The alpine pass roads: Furka, Grimsel, Susten... a pleasure to drive at a relaxed pace.
What it costs and how to save
Switzerland is expensive: fuel, food, campsites... To save money, stock up on groceries in a neighbouring country before crossing, cook on board and combine campsites with designated areas where rules allow. Even so, expect a higher-budget trip.
Mountain driving tips
- Take mountain passes slowly: gradients and bends call for caution in a motorhome.
- Cold even in summer at altitude: bring warm clothing.
- Free overnight stays are heavily restricted; use campsites and designated areas.
- Less sun among the mountains: keep an eye on your autonomy.
In summary
Switzerland and the Alps deliver Europe's most spectacular mountain scenery, in exchange for a high budget and the compulsory vignette for motorways. The step you can take today: if you're planning Switzerland, buy the vignette and do your big shop in a neighbouring country before entering; that way you keep costs down and avoid a fine. Link it with the routes through Europe.
