Grossglockner and Hohe Tauern

Before you go

• The road is usually open from early May to early November, depending on the weather. Check current conditions before you set out.
• The road has its own toll, separate from the Austrian motorway vignette. The operator can tell you the current terms.
• Motorhomes are generally allowed, but expect tight bends and gradients of up to 12 percent. Camping along the road is prohibited.
• The road has a night closure. The last entry is 45 minutes before it, so plan your timing.

Planning

The road is 48 km long and links Fusch in Salzburg with Heiligenblut in Carinthia. Its highest point is the Hochtor at 2,504 m. A branch road leads to the Edelweißspitze at 2,571 m, and the Fuscher Törl at 2,428 m gives first views of the Grossglockner (3,798 m), Austria's highest mountain. In summer the road stays open for longer hours each day. Check the operator's page for current hours and conditions.

Camping

Camping along the high alpine road is prohibited, and the national park is protected. Plan your overnight stops in the valleys. Campsites exist in the Heiligenblut area, in the Möll valley and at the Carinthian lakes, for example. Check opening times and booking rules with each campsite. Austrian rules on overnight parking can differ by state and municipality, so look for signs.

Getting around

The road has 36 hairpin bends and gradients of up to 12 percent. Use a low gear downhill and give the engine and brakes time to rest at the parking areas. The road crosses four vegetation zones, so temperatures can change quickly. A day ticket covers the exhibitions and themed trails along the road. Check the operator for current vehicle rules, then plan for a full day.

FAQs