1-Day Swiss Alps Drive: Furka Grimsel Susten Passes in a Porsche

Experience the Swiss Alps in a Porsche: A Review of the 1-Day Drive Through Furka, Grimsel, and Susten Passes

Imagine cruising in a sleek Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0, winding through some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain roads. This full-day supercar adventure offers a taste of Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes, exhilarating driving, and a touch of luxury. We haven’t done this trip ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it’s clear this experience delivers a memorable blend of scenic beauty and adrenaline.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic, scenic drives—not just looking at the scenery from a bus window but actively driving through it in a high-performance vehicle. Plus, the route includes some of the most celebrated mountain passes, echoing scenes from James Bond films and postcards alike. The only small caveat: it’s a significant investment, more suited for those with a passion for driving or the desire to indulge in a distinctive adventure. This tour suits travelers who appreciate luxury, driving, and stunning vistas, and are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Swiss Alps.

Key Points

• Luxury and Authenticity: Drive a Porsche through the Swiss Alps, combining high-performance driving with genuine scenery.
• Stunning Route: Passes through the iconic Furka, Grimsel, and Susten mountain roads, offering some of the most picturesque alpine views.
• Full-Day Experience: Approximately 6 to 10 hours of scenic driving, with well-organized stops at key points.
• Expert Support: Includes a comprehensive briefing, GPS, and on-call WhatsApp support for a smooth journey.
• Cost and Value: Priced at nearly $2,000 per group (up to 2), the experience emphasizes quality and exclusivity.
• Limited Inclusion: Admission fees and meals are extra, so budget accordingly for additional costs.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point: Lake Lucerne
Your day begins early at the meeting point in Kloten, near Zurich, with a briefing about your Porsche and the route ahead. We loved the way the journey kicks off with the chance to marvel at Lake Lucerne’s calm waters, which mirror the surrounding peaks. It’s a peaceful start that sets the tone for the day—expect a quick 15-minute stop here, perfect for snapping some photos of the lake’s mirror-like surface and the distant mountains.

Sustenpass: An Exhilarating Drive
Next, you’ll head south, winding through the Susten Pass. This drive is described as exhilarating, featuring 26 bridges that span lush valleys and dramatic cliffs. The road’s curves and elevation changes make for a fun, engaging drive, especially in a sporty Porsche. The panoramic views of cascading waterfalls and sweeping mountain vistas are the highlight here. A brief 15-minute stop offers a chance to take in the scenery, while the winding roads promise a thrill for anyone who loves driving.

Aare Gorge: Natural Wonder
One of the more unique stops is the Aare Gorge, a narrow limestone canyon carved by the Aare River. Walking along the secure paths through towering walls creates a sense of walking inside nature’s cathedral. While the gorge isn’t included in the tour cost (an extra CHF 35 fee applies), it offers a striking contrast to the wide-open mountain passes with its intimate, dramatic landscape. This stop is about 1 hour long, providing time for photos and a bit of exploration.

Grimsel Pass: Mountain Majesty
Next, the tour takes you over Grimsel Pass, ascending to 2,164 meters. The drive here offers panoramic views of rugged peaks, serene alpine lakes, and glaciers. The winding road provides a scenic ascent, revealing areas that look almost untouched by time. A quick 15-minute stop allows you to appreciate the sweeping vistas—an excellent chance for photos or just soaking in the mountain air.

Furka Pass: James Bond’s Road
Perhaps the most famous pass on the route, Furka Pass is a highlight for many—made even more famous by its appearance in the James Bond film “Goldfinger.” Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers, this winding road at 2,429 meters offers some of the most dramatic alpine scenery. Parking and brief stops here let you stretch your legs and admire the rugged landscape. This pass is a favorite among travelers, especially those who appreciate iconic routes.

Rhone Glacier: Icy Wonder
The final significant stop visits the Rhone Glacier, home to a carved ice grotto that enchants visitors with its shimmering blue ice and intricate formations. Exploring the ice cave adds a cool (literally!) dimension to the journey. While the glacier visit is about 30 minutes and the ice cave incurs an extra admission fee, many find it a fascinating end to a day full of scenery and adrenaline.

What the Experience Means for You

Driving a luxury sports car through these mountain passes isn’t just about the thrill of speed—it’s about experiencing the Swiss landscape in a way few travelers can. The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS provides lively handling and open-air freedom, letting you truly feel the mountain air and see panoramic vistas without the window glass between you and the scene. We’re told the car is thoroughly prepared, insured, and supported by GPS and WhatsApp assistance, which can be reassuring for those unfamiliar with Swiss roads.

The guided briefing and detailed roadbook in English help ensure you’re confident navigating the route, while the professional support ensures that if you have questions or need help, assistance is just a WhatsApp message away. The flexibility of the trip length—anywhere from 6 to 10 hours—accommodates those who want a more leisurely experience or a full day of adventure.

Pricing and Value Perspective

At $1,948.11 for up to two people, this is a premium experience. But when compared to the cost of renting a supercar in Switzerland or undertaking a private guided tour with similar scenic scope, the value becomes clearer. You’re not only paying for the car but also for the convenience of a pre-arranged route, detailed support, and the chance to drive through some of the most iconic alpine roads.

Most reviews highlight how the experience offers stunning views, with one tester noting, “The Swiss roads and passes were so beautiful. I highly recommend doing this trip in a convertible so you can take in the majesty of the Alps.” The unique combination of exhilarating driving and spectacular scenery makes it well worth the price for those seeking a memorable, bucket-list experience.

Practical Considerations

• Meeting Point and Timing: The tour begins at 8:00 am in Kloten, near Zurich, providing ample time to enjoy the day’s journey.
• Age and Physical Fitness: The minimum driver age is 23, and travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness—expect some walking and a day filled with outdoor stops.
• Extra Costs: Admission to the Aare Gorge and Rhone Glacier ice cave is extra, as are meals, parking, and fuel (~CHF 80). Budget for these if you want to visit all sites.
• Weather Dependency: The experience requires good weather. Poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with options for a full refund or alternative dates.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for car enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting to combine a scenic road trip with a touch of luxury. If you’re someone who values stunning mountain views and enjoys driving along winding roads, you’ll find this tour hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who want a private, tailored experience and enjoy a bit of adrenaline with their sightseeing.

However, it’s less suited for travelers who prefer guided bus tours, have limited mobility, or aren’t comfortable driving in mountainous terrain. The cost reflects the exclusivity and luxury of the experience, so it’s best for those willing to splurge on a truly unique Swiss adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who love driving, scenery, and Swiss scenery, this tour packs a punch. The chance to steer a Porsche through some of the most photographed mountain passes, combined with stops at stunning sites like the Rhone Glacier and Aare Gorge, creates a well-rounded, memorable day. The support and detailed route guide make it manageable even for less experienced drivers, though the cost is definitely a consideration.

It’s a luxury experience that emphasizes authenticity—you’re not just a passenger but an active participant in discovering Switzerland’s mountain majesty. If your budget allows and you’re craving an adventure that combines speed, scenery, and Swiss charm, this tour is a compelling choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for anyone who wants to drive a supercar?
Yes, provided you are at least 23 years old and comfortable with driving a manual or automatic sports car on mountain roads. The tour includes a briefing to ensure you’re confident before hitting the roads.

How long does the entire trip last?
The duration ranges from approximately 6 to 10 hours, depending on how long you choose to spend at each stop and the overall pace.

What is included in the price?
You get a 10-hour rental of a Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 Roadster, all the mileage, a detailed English roadbook, comprehensive insurance, a personal briefing, GPS, and on-call WhatsApp support.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local restaurants during the day.

Are there any additional fees for attractions?
Yes, admission to the Aare Gorge costs CHF 35 per person, and visiting the Rhone Glacier ice cave is extra. Fuel costs (~CHF 80) are also separate.

What about parking?
Parking fees are not included in the price, so you might find some small charges at certain stops.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, making for a personalized experience.

How do I book?
You can reserve through the provider’s website or booking platforms like Viator, with confirmation typically received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This Swiss Alps drive in a Porsche promises more than just sightseeing—it’s a memorable adventure blended with luxury, genuine scenery, and a dash of adrenaline. Perfect for those looking to tick a major box on their travel bucket list!