Due to maintenance orders placed after 11 PM CEST will not be processed until the next day at 6 AM. If you travel before 6 AM we recommend to buy a physical sticker.
The Belchen Tunnel
The Belchen Tunnel is a significant motorway passage in Switzerland, connecting the municipalities of Liestal and Eptingen, playing a crucial role in the A2 motorway that links Basel and Lucerne. Opened in 1970, the tunnel runs through the Belchen mountain range and comprises two main tunnel tubes, each having two lanes.
While this modern myth originated in around 1980, the tunnel has been serving road users since 1970. It recently underwent a substantial upgrade, bringing the structure up to national safety standards. The upgrade included the construction of a third service tube - the Belchen Rehabilitation Tunnel. The two existing tubes dating from 1970, were both modernised in 2022 by the Federal Roads Office FEDRO. This was necessary to ensure operational safety.
Background about the Belchen Tunnel
The tunnel consisting of two existing tunnel tubes (each with two lanes) that run through the complex and varied geology of the Belchen mountain range. It connects the municipalities of Liestal and Eptingen. It plays a crucial role in the A2 motorway, which links north-south road traffic between Basel and Lucerne.
Encircled by the striking Jura Mountains, this tunnel enables efficient domestic Swiss traffic between Basel and the neighboring regions of Olten and Solothurn. It is integral to the national system of toll roads and up-to-date live news is available online. It is managed by the Federal Roads Office FEDRO, who recently installed a new service tube parallel to the existing tunnel system. The existing tunnel tubes were also renovated.
Image (Map) to be created! A map showing the exact location of the tunnel and roads leading to/from it
Image File name: Map Belchen Tunnel.webp
Image Title: Map Belchen Tunnel
Belchen Tunnel - Toll Free
While no direct charge is levied for use of the tunnel, all drivers using the motorways are obliged to purchase a Swiss motorway vignette. These can be bought online and enable efficient payment for the use of the superb road network.
Elevation and Length of the Belchen Tunnel
Here are few useful and interesting facts about the tunnel:
| Length | 3 180 metres |
| Number of Tubes | 2 (and 1 service tube) |
| Number of Lanes | 2 x 2 (bi-directional) |
| Traffic Volume | 55 000 vehicles per day |
| Typical travel time @ 80 km/h* | 2.5 minutes |
*Please note that the travel time listed is in ideal traffic and weather conditions. Users are advised to consult online resources with up-to-date information about traffic and weather.
Terms of Use & Restrictions
Those planning on using the tunnel are subject to the following regulations:
- Drivers must have a valid driving licence and adhere to national traffic regulations.
- Observe the 80 km/h speed limit when transiting the tunnel.
- Be aware of the potential risks of using the tunnel. By law, all vehicles should be equipped with an emergency hazard triangle to deploy in the event of a breakdown or accident.
Belchen Tunnel Online Resources
It is suggested that travellers check their weather app for the latest Belchen tunnel weather. There is no traffic webcam for the Belchen Tunnel.
Belchen Tunnel FAQ:
- Emergency Call / Vehicle Breakdown Service: 140
- TCS Touring Club Switzerland - Toll free number: 0800 808 114
- TCS Touring Club Switzerland - International number: +41 58 8276316
