With Goethe at the Gotthard

  • Tip
  • 18.31 km long
  • Difficulty: difficult
  • Condition: very difficult
  • Great panorama
  • Theme trail
Follow in Goethe’s footsteps and explore the historic route from Göschenen through Andermatt and Hospental up to the Gotthard Pass. Fascinating background stories will accompany you along the way via the app.

The “With Goethe on the Gotthard” themed trail leads from Göschenen through the impressive Schöllenen Gorge, over the Devil’s Bridge, and on to Andermatt. From there, the trail continues through the Urseren Valley, past Hospental, and along the historic mule trail up to the Gotthard Pass.

Audio files in the Amuse app accompany you along the route (Göschenen–Andermatt / Andermatt–Gotthard Pass). They offer fascinating insights into Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s three journeys through Switzerland and reveal how the famous poet experienced the landscape, the Gotthard, and the Urseren Valley.

At the Gotthard Pass, the Sasso San Gottardo Museum features the country’s only permanent exhibition dedicated to Goethe’s Swiss journeys. Located deep within the former Gotthard Fortress, it serves as a spectacular conclusion to the hike.

  • 6:00 h
  • 18.31 km
  • 1,002 m
  • 18 m
  • 1,106 m
  • 2,108 m
  • 1,002 m
  • Start: Andermatt
  • Destination: Gotthard Pass

Good to know

Pavements

Street (17%)
Asphalt (21%)
Gravel (2%)
Trail (19%)
Path (40%)

Best to visit

suitable
Depends on weather

Directions

Göschenen – Schöllenen Gorge – Andermatt – Hospental – Gotthard Pass

Tour information

  • Culturally interesting

  • Nature highlight

  • Tour with dog

Equipment

  • Hiking equipment
  • Weather protection 
  • Provision 

Directions & Parking facilities

Getting there
In the summer, Göschenen and Andermatt are very easily accessible from all four directions, making them a pleasant starting point.

Parking
Parking is available in Göschenen and Andermatt.
Public transportation
Göschenen, the starting point, is easily accessible by train and bus. You can find the current schedule at: SBB Schedule.

Author

Andermatt-Urserntal Tourismus GmbH

Organization

Région de vacances Andermatt

Author´s Tip / Recommendation of the author

Safety guidelines

  • The hike takes you through alpine terrain. Wear appropriate footwear and be aware of the current weather conditions.
  • Check the opening hours of the Sasso San Gottardo Museum before your hike.