Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Grossglockner High Alpine Road: An Epic Journey through Austria’s Highest Mountain Pass

Nestled in the Austrian Alps, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of the most spectacular and picturesque drives in the world. Spanning 48 kilometers in length, the winding road guides visitors through the majestic mountains of the Hohe Tauern National Park, providing breathtaking views of the highest peak in Austria, the Grossglockner.

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is an unforgettable journey and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. With its winding roads, stunning mountain landscapes and incredible vistas, it is no wonder why this road has become one of the most sought-after drives in the world.

 

A Brief History of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road was first opened in 1935 and was originally intended only for the transportation of goods and supplies to the villages of Heiligenblut and Fusch. It wasn’t until 1959 that the road was opened to the public, becoming the first ever toll road in Austria.

Today, this magnificent alpine road is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Austria, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience the stunning views of the Grossglockner and the surrounding Hohe Tauern National Park.

 

Exploring the Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road can be accessed from Heiligenblut or Fusch and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Austrian Alps. The road winds its way up to an altitude of 2,504 meters, providing stunning views of the Grossglockner and the surrounding mountain peaks.

Along the road, there are numerous stops and lookout points where visitors can pause to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and the glaciers. The most notable stop is the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, located at an altitude of 2,369 meters, where visitors can take in the magnificent views of the Grossglockner and the Pasterze glacier.

At the summit of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is the Edelweissspitze, the highest point on the road at an altitude of 2,504 meters. Here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Austrian Alps and the Grossglockner on a clear day.

Along the road, visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing. There are also several restaurants and souvenir shops available for visitors to enjoy.

 

Tips for Visiting the Grossglockner High Alpine Road

When planning a trip to the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:

• Check the weather before you go: The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is located in the mountains and is prone to changing weather conditions. It is best to check the forecast before you go to ensure the best experience.
• Wear warm clothing: The temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes, so it is important to wear warm clothing.
• Pack plenty of snacks and drinks: There are few restaurants and shops along the road, so it is important to pack plenty of snacks and drinks for the journey.
• Allow plenty of time: The drive can be quite long and it is important to allow plenty of time to stop and take in the stunning views.
• Drive safely: The Grossglockner High Alpine Road can be quite narrow in certain sections, so it is important to drive slowly and carefully, especially around curves and bends.
• Consider purchasing a toll ticket: While the road is free for residents of the local area, visitors are required to pay a toll to drive on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. The toll fee helps support the maintenance and preservation of the road and the surrounding national park.