Austria's Most Spectacular Mountain Drive Through the Heart of the Alps

Soaring through the majestic Hohe Tauern National Park, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Großglockner-Hochalpenstraße) is one of the world's greatest driving experiences. This engineering masterpiece climbs through 36 hairpin bends to reach elevations above 2,500 meters, delivering breathtaking views of Austria's highest peak, the Grossglockner (3,798 m), alongside 37 mountains exceeding 3,000 meters and 19 glaciers. From flower-filled alpine meadows to the icy realm of the Pasterze Glacier, this is mountain driving at its most exhilarating.

Key Stops

Ferleiten & Schleierfall Waterfall - Shortly after entering from the Salzburg side at Fusch, stop at this impressive viewpoint where a powerful stream drops from a rocky cliff into the valley below. A dramatic introduction to the alpine scenery ahead.

Hochmais - A short walk downhill from the main road leads to this educational stop where exhibits explain the Pasterze Glacier, the Rotmoos nature reserve, and the vegetation zones at high altitudes.

Haus Alpine Naturschau - An interactive nature museum featuring exhibits on crystals, alpine ecology, and the geological forces that shaped these mountains. A perfect stop for families with a marmot cinema and playground.

Edelweiss Spitze (2,571 m) - The highest drivable point on the route and its most iconic stop. A short detour from the main road leads to a viewpoint offering 360-degree panoramas of more than 30 three-thousand-meter peaks. The image of the road's perfect hairpin bends unfolding below has become the symbol of Austrian alpine driving. Don't miss this.

Fuscher Törl (2,428 m) - Those approaching from the Salzburg side get their first breathtaking view of the Grossglockner from this panoramic viewpoint. Take a break at the mountain restaurant with its spectacular terrace overlooking the peaks.

Fuscher Lacke - A serene alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks, perfect for a peaceful stop and photographs reflecting the mountains in its still waters.

Hochtor Pass (2,504 m) - The main pass marks the border between Salzburg and Carinthia provinces. Snow fields persist here for most of the year, and on clear days the views extend seemingly forever across the alpine landscape.

Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (2,369 m) - The crown jewel of the route and its most visited destination. This spectacular viewpoint—named after Emperor Franz Josef who hiked here in 1856—offers direct views of both the Grossglockner summit and the mighty Pasterze Glacier, the largest glacier remaining in the Eastern Alps.

Heiligenblut - The picturesque village at the southern end of the route, dominated by its iconic Gothic pilgrimage church with a distinctive spire set against the backdrop of the Grossglockner. The village offers restaurants, accommodation, and the perfect place to end (or begin) your alpine adventure.

Wildlife & Nature

The road passes through the Hohe Tauern National Park—the largest protected area in the Alps—and crosses four distinct vegetation zones. Watch for the "High Five" of Grossglockner wildlife: Ibex - Sure-footed mountain goats often spotted on rocky slopes, Golden Eagles - Soaring above the peaks, Marmots - Listen for their distinctive warning whistles, Apollo Butterflies - Rare alpine species and Alpine Bumblebees - Thriving in the flower-filled meadows.

Driving Tips

• Start Early - This is one of Austria's top tourist attractions. Arrive at opening time (5:30–6:00 AM depending on season) to enjoy the viewpoints before crowds arrive and secure parking at popular stops.
• Check Your Vehicle - Ensure brakes are in excellent condition before attempting the 36 hairpin bends. The sustained climbs and descents demand reliable mechanics.
• Fuel Up First - Fill your tank before entering; fuel stations are scarce along the route.
• Pack Layers - Temperatures drop dramatically with altitude. Even on summer days, the summit can be cold, foggy, or rainy. Bring warm clothing and waterproofs.
• Use Lower Gears - Engine braking is essential on the long descents. Avoid riding your brakes continuously.
• Allow a Full Day - While the drive itself takes 1–2 hours, the viewpoints, exhibitions, and hiking trails deserve a full day to properly appreciate.
• Weather Windows - Check forecasts and be flexible. Clear weather transforms the experience; fog can obscure the views entirely.
• Parking Patience - Popular viewpoints like Edelweiss Spitze and Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe have limited parking. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
• No Camping - Camping is not permitted along the road or in its immediate vicinity.
• Toll Road - The route requires a toll (cars €43, motorcycles €26, electric vehicles €35.50). Book online for discounts on food and souvenirs. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing. Road closes for winter from early November to early May.
• For more information visit: grossglockner.at