re: driving in Switzerland

That would make a nice trip! Switzerland have vignettes (CHF 40 [$31] until Jan 31st the following year, regardless of how long you will be there) you need to attach to your windshield. Otherwise, roads are very well kept and many of them are scenic. Unfortunately the highest mountain passes like Griald or Furka are not certain to be already open by May. I'd come to Switzerland via Innsbruck to Vaduz, in Liechtentsein, then going to Chur and Bellizona, then going to Brig through the high Furka Pass if it is open, then reentering France through Jura.

I don't know about the month of May, but we drove in Switzerland in August/September two years ago and the roads are great. I would think that the main roads would be fine. As you would guess, the scenery is to die for.....

Heidi, I don't know about the future, but there are major road rebuilding projects in the Zurich and Bern areas this summer. From all appearances, they will not be done this year. Weekend traffic is far worse than weekday traffic. I assume the projects will still be underway next spring. Do make sure you get the permit. And remember in Switzerland speeders are caught via camera, so mind your speedometer.

We drove there in early May 2007 and the roads were fine but certainly no guarantee they will be that way next May. I would take the route suggested by Andre L. Since there was a famous book and movie about you as a child you may be interested in stopping at the Heidiland rest area. It is on the way from Vaduz toward Chur. Just a very short drive from Vaduz. If you want to go into the town of Maienfeld and further explore "Heidi" you could do so. At the rest area they have a store, some goats in a pen and every hour Heidi comes out of her house with her goats and the Heidi song playing. Nothing to say "wow" about but being a Heidi you should stop there for a short while.

Thanks to everyone for their help. It is much appreciated! Heidi

Vignette also needed in Austria. -=- As one who regularly drives to Switzerland and Italy, let me tell you that Vienna to Avignon is a LONG slog. Lots and lots and lots of tunnels in Austria. -=- The Heidiland rest stop is fun, and it has a really nice Moevenpick Marche restaurant.

Andre L's suggestion would be an interesting drive- no matter whther the other roads are closed or not. And it'll add one more country to your list. (Joke). I think takking the opportunity of a leisurely drive in Switzerland sounds wonderful

You will fall in love with switzerland no matter where you go.

I've driven through in late April. All the roads were open.