Vereina Tunnel.

Introduction: The Vereina Tunnel – A Swiss Alpine Engineering Marvel

The Vereina Tunnel, nestled in the heart of the Graubünden (Grisons) region of Switzerland, stands as a testament to Swiss engineering and sustainable alpine mobility. Stretching 19.1 kilometers beneath the Rhaetian Alps, it is the world’s longest metre-gauge railway tunnel. Since its opening in 1999, the Vereina Tunnel has provided a vital, year-round transportation link between the Prättigau and Lower Engadine regions, ensuring reliable passage even when alpine passes like Flüela are snowbound.

Operated by the Rhaetian Railway (RhB), the tunnel accommodates both passenger and freight trains, as well as a unique car shuttle service. This car train allows drivers to load their vehicles onto special rail wagons at Klosters Selfranga and travel swiftly and safely to Sagliains—bypassing weather-dependent mountain roads and reducing environmental impact.

While direct public tours inside the tunnel are not permitted due to safety protocols, visitors can still experience this remarkable infrastructure by using the car shuttle service. The surrounding Graubünden region invites exploration, with charming alpine villages, UNESCO-listed railway lines, and rich cultural heritage waiting at both ends of the tunnel.

This detailed guide covers everything you need to know: visiting hours, ticket options, the car shuttle experience, nearby attractions, practical travel tips, and the Vereina Tunnel’s broader significance in regional connectivity, economy, and sustainability. For the latest schedules and ticket information, consult the official Rhaetian Railway website and related resources (Swissinfo).

What is the Vereina Tunnel?

The Vereina Tunnel is a 19.1-kilometer railway tunnel connecting Klosters (Prättigau) with Sagliains (Lower Engadine) in the canton of Graubünden. It is the longest tunnel on the RhB network and the world’s longest metre-gauge railway tunnel (Wikipedia). Its dual function—transporting both trains and vehicles—makes it a year-round, weatherproof solution for crossing the Alps. The car shuttle, known locally as the “Rollende Strasse,” is especially crucial during winter, when mountain passes may be closed.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Access

Operating Hours

• Year-round operation: The Vereina car shuttle runs daily, with more frequent departures during winter and weekends. Trains typically depart every 30 minutes, but frequencies may increase during holiday peaks.
• Timetable: Always verify current schedules and waiting times via the official RhB timetable.

Ticketing and Fares

• Purchasing tickets: Tickets can be bought in advance online (Vereina Ticket Shop), at the terminal cash desks in Klosters Selfranga and Sagliains, or with the reloadable Vereina value card (offering up to 35% savings for frequent travelers).
• Fares (as of June 2025): Standard one-way fare for a car up to 3.5 tonnes is CHF 39.00. Larger vehicles—such as campervans or trailers—are subject to higher rates.
• Important: Swiss motorway vignettes and rail passes like the Swiss Travel Pass do not cover car train fares; a separate Vereina ticket is always required.
• First-come, first-served: Reservations are not necessary; the service operates on a queue system (MySwissAlps).

Boarding and Vehicle Preparation

• Arrival: Follow staff directions for vehicle alignment and boarding.
• Safety: Place the car in gear (or park), switch off the engine, apply the handbrake, and stay in the vehicle during the 18-minute journey.
• Height and weight limits: Vehicles up to 3.60 meters high and 4.5 tonnes (for certain categories) are accepted. Check official guidelines for specifics.

Onboard Experience

• Journey: The ride through the tunnel is in darkness but is well-ventilated and monitored for safety.
• Amenities: Mobile and radio signals are available throughout. Tune into SRF 1 (95.2 MHz), Radio Südostschweiz (99.7 MHz), or Rumantsch (89.4 MHz) for updates.
• Comfort: Bring snacks or entertainment, especially for children (RhB Blog).

Accessibility and Vehicle Restrictions

• Accessible travel: Shuttle stations and trains are equipped for passengers with reduced mobility; assistance is available upon request.
• Vehicle types: Passenger cars, campervans, caravans, and certain trailers are permitted within dimension limits. Pedestrians and cyclists cannot use the car shuttle.

How to Use the Vereina Car Shuttle Service

1. Arrive at Klosters Selfranga or Sagliains portal.
2. Purchase your ticket online or at the terminal.
3. Queue and load your vehicle as directed by staff.
4. Remain in your vehicle throughout the 18-minute tunnel passage.
5. Disembark and continue your journey in the Engadine or Prättigau region.

A real-time traffic jam barometer helps travelers plan for busy periods.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Arrive early during holidays or weekends to minimize wait times.
• Check weather and road conditions, especially in winter.
• Prepare entertainment for the short journey.
• Follow safety instructions from RhB staff.
• Consult official resources for the latest information.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Experiences

The Vereina Tunnel is a gateway to the best of Graubünden:

• Klosters: Renowned for its alpine charm, winter sports, and traditional Swiss hospitality.
• Lower Engadine (Sagliains, Scuol): Picturesque villages, historic churches, and the Swiss National Park.
• UNESCO World Heritage: Ride the Albula and Bernina lines for breathtaking mountain railway views.
• Cultural events: Explore Romansh culture, visit local museums, and enjoy festivals across the region (Academia Raetica).

The Vereina Tunnel’s Regional and Environmental Impact

Strategic Importance

• Year-round access: Replaces the seasonal Flüela Pass, ensuring reliable mobility for residents, businesses, and tourists (Wikiwand).
• Regional economy: Boosts tourism, labor mobility, and local business by integrating Prättigau and Engadine into broader Swiss and European rail networks (Bahnonline).
• Multimodal transport: Handles up to 5,000 vehicles daily on peak days, with a record 535,000 vehicles in 2023 (Swissinfo).

Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives

• Geothermal energy: The tunnel’s north portal supplies 2,100 liters per minute of 17°C water for Klosters’ district heating, replacing up to 1 million liters of heating oil annually (SRF).
• Ecological construction: Built to minimize surface disruption, with active water and landscape management (Academia Raetica).
• Sustainable transport: Encourages a shift from road to rail, reducing alpine traffic emissions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I tour inside the Vereina Tunnel?
A: No, public tours inside the tunnel are not permitted. Experience it via the car shuttle or regular train services.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Buy tickets online, at terminal cash desks, or via the Vereina value card.

Q: Do I need to reserve a spot?
A: No, the car shuttle operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Q: What vehicles are allowed?
A: Most passenger cars, campervans, and trailers within dimension and weight limits.

Q: Is the service accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, contact RhB in advance for specific assistance.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, but they must remain secured during transit.