The Munt La Schera Tunnel in Switzerland

The Munt La Schera Tunnel, an impressive structure in Switzerland, connects the Swiss town of Zernez with the Italian town of Livigno. Completed in 1968, the toll tunnel was initially used to transport construction materials for the Runt dal Gall Dam. After the dam's construction was completed, the tunnel was opened to general traffic. In addition to the mandatory vignette, which applies in Switzerland, the Munt La Schera Tunnel is also subject to tolls.

The most important things in brief:

• The Munt La Schera Tunnel in Switzerland is subject to tolls, which are paid directly on site.
• The tunnel has a total length of 3,385 meters.
• Bicycles have not been allowed since 2008 and have been replaced by a bicycle shuttle service.

Interesting information about the Munt La Schera Tunnel

The Munt la Schera Tunnel is a major road tunnel connecting the Engadin valley in the canton of Graubünden in Switzerland with Livigno in the Italian province of Sondrio. While both tunnel portals are located in Switzerland, the southern portal directly faces the border crossing with Livigno, while the northern portal houses the Swiss customs station. The Engadin Power Plants (Engadiner Kraftwerke) owns the tunnel. As mentioned above, it was originally built to transport construction materials for the impressive 130-meter-high Punt dal Gall arch dam on the Swiss-Italian border, which also explains the ownership structure. Following its completion and subsequent flooding of the associated reservoir in 1968, the tunnel was opened to traffic. These factors contribute to the tunnel's unique dimensions, particularly its single-lane design.

Single-lane tunnel

Traffic in the Munt la Schera Tunnel is single-lane, with vehicles with a maximum width of 2.5 meters permitted. This is only possible when the tunnel is temporarily used in a single direction, which is regulated by a traffic light-controlled, alternating one-way traffic system. Typically, the tunnel is open for 15 minutes in each direction, alternating between traffic. During the ski season, the traffic lights change hourly.

The tunnel has been open 24/7 since 2010. However, it is recommended to check current traffic conditions before each journey, as the tunnel is occasionally closed or has different opening hours due to construction work.

The bicycle shuttle service

Since 2008, bicycles have been prohibited in the Munt la Schera Tunnel. Given the region's popularity among cyclists, a special bicycle shuttle service has been established. It runs every half hour between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. from June to September, safely transporting cyclists and their vehicles through the tunnel. To ensure a smooth operation, we recommend that you register for the shuttle in advance by phone.

This shuttle service ensures that cyclists can enjoy the breathtaking surroundings without compromising safety in the tunnel. It contributes to the preservation of the natural environment and promotes environmentally friendly tourism in the region. Furthermore, it allows cyclists to explore the numerous attractive routes around the Engadin and Livigno without having to use the tunnel itself.

The costs

Passing through the Munt la Schera Tunnel is subject to a toll. Prices vary depending on the season. It's important to note that the Swiss toll sticker is not valid here.

For cars, the winter fare, from December to April, ranges from CHF 25 to 35 for a one-way trip and CHF 42 to 50 for a round trip, although costs may vary depending on the day of the week. Online purchases are cheaper, ranging from CHF 20 to 29 for a one-way trip and CHF 35 to 42 for a round trip.

In the summer, from May to November, a one-way toll fee at the toll station is CHF 17, while a round trip fee is CHF 28. Rates apply to motorcycles, motorhomes, and caravans. It's also advisable to check prices online, as they are often significantly cheaper.

When purchasing a return ticket, the driver has the flexibility to use the return journey at any time without expiration of the ticket's validity. The tunnel toll can be paid in advance online through Engadin Power Stations, which is highly recommended, as prices are significantly lower online.

Toll in the Munt La Schera Tunnel

Passage through the Munt La Schera Tunnel is subject to a toll. Customs and toll stations are located at the northern entrance of the tunnel in Switzerland and at the western end of the dam on the Italian side.

FAQ about the Munt La Schera Tunnel

How long is the Munt La Schera Tunnel?

The tunnel has a total length of 3,385 meters.

Is the Munt La Schera Tunnel open in winter?

The Munt la Schera Tunnel is open to traffic year-round, allowing passage even in winter. Tolls vary depending on the season, with prices being significantly lower in summer than in the winter months.

Do I have to pay tolls for the Munt La Schera Tunnel?

Yes, the tunnel is subject to tolls. The fee for a one-way car passage through the tunnel ranges from CHF 15 to CHF 35. These costs vary and depend on factors such as the time of year, the day of the week, and the method of purchase, whether directly at the toll station or online.