Last Updated on 26th November 2025 by admin
Austria is located in the heart of the Alps and is a great destination for a road trip due to its mountainous road systems through gorgeous scenery. There are routes for driving that have engineered in that once behind the wheel, drivers and passengers will never forget the beautiful views, picturesque little towns, excursions full of exciting switchbacks and mountain passes, and will eventually arrive at a destination.
Austria is a culture-rich European country and Austria’s tourist attractions are very famous all over Europe. Austria also has a well developed road network with spectacular views of scenery that allow you to travel comfortably. Whether you enjoy nature, you are a photography lover, or you are just looking for an adventure on the open road, these stunning Austria roads will stimulate your senses and amaze you!
1. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria is one of the highest altitude, mountain pass roads, and is considered the most scenic. It is the unrivaled monarch of the mountain roads of Austria, 48 kilometers long, and was planned by the Austrian architect Franz Wallack, an engineer and student of the illustrious architect Max de Moffard. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, from the Haus Alpine Naturschau to Heiligenblut, is open to the visitor.
In the opposite direction, the road has connections with Bruck in the region of Salzburg with Heiligenblut in Carinthia, via either Fuscher Torl or Hochtor Pass, reaching an altitude of 2504 m. Apparently, the road is named after Austria highest peak Grossglockner. It is actually, made for long distance travel. This engineering achievement expertly twists and turns up to an exceptional height of 2500 m, giving unobstructed views of several 3000 m peaks like Grossglockner, Austria highest mountain.
Visitors can make stops at informative displays, and the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitor center, and The breathtaking view of the surrounding glaciers and flower-filled alpine pastures cannot be understated. This might be one of the most amazing rides of one’s life. The amazing view of the roadside is breathtaking. Mountains, snow, clear sky, tunnels, and what else could a person as for?
2. Gerlos Alpine Road
However, Austria’s mountain enchantment stretches well beyond the Grossglockner, take a trip on the Gerlos Alpine Road. This is a 12-kilometer scenic road that goes between Krimml and Königsleiten in the Pinzgau. The Gerlos Alpine Road was designed by the same architect who designed the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Franz Wallack. The Gerlos Alpine Road is more nestled into the topography and offers a comfortable ride with more engaging scenery between Salzburg and Tyrol.
The Gerlos Alpine Road is a favorite for families and others looking for a leisurely drive compared to some of the more daunting roads in the Austrian mountains. This mountain pass travels through rugged terrains offering majestic views of clear lakes, green valleys, and high peaks.
Consider visiting sites like the Durlaßboden Reservoir or simply enjoying some Tyrolean food in one of the local mountain huts. Overall the Gerlos road is well kept and rich in mountain views, including views of the Hohe Tauern National Park. There are many areas along the Gerlos road to pull over to take in the scenery.
3. Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road
The Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road, referred to as the “Secret Passage”, is a mix of history and natural beauty. This 35-kilometer scenic road climbs an impressive 1,860 meters from Sölden in Austria to Meran in Italy. This road is not for the weak; with its 60 hairpin bends and steep ascent, the reward is a truly memorable experience.
As you travel higher through the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road, the views of Ötztal Alps on the Austrian side and Ortler Alps on the Italian side shifts and changes. The Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road is open from late spring to early fall depending on weather conditions. A toll to drive on the road is collected and can be paid in cash or with credit card.
The road crosses the main alpine ridge, providing a uniquely scenic opportunity to drive one and to the other country. The Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road may be a paradise for …
Offering a extreme and rewarding driving experience.
4. The Nockalm Road, Carinthia
For a one-of-a-kind experience, take the Nockalm Road, a picturesque 34-kilometer drive in Carinthia’s Nock Mountains. This picturesque journey hugs the hills and gentle slopes and is a great option for those who want a more relaxed ride than some of the more stressful higher elevation drives, which often attract motorcyclists and cyclists looking for incredible scenery and the true mountain experience.
The Nockalm Road is not about speeding; it is about enjoying the ride. Have fun cruising along at a moderate pace while enjoying the Nockberge mountains, the largest stone pine forest in Europe, and the colorful pastures of grazing sheep.
The Nockalm Road has more to offer than beautiful views. When you drive down the road, be sure to stop at the different lookout points to enjoy breathtaking views of the uniquely beautiful mountain scenery. When exploring the area or driving, you can view the unique exhibits along the way, all which emphasize geology, fossils and agricultural practices.
5. Villach Alpine Road
Villach Alpine Road is a spectacular high-altitude road located in Carinthia, Austria, also known as Villacher Alpenstraße. The Villach Alpine Road is a 16.5-kilometer scenic road that meanders upwards into the Dobratsch Mountain area near Villach. The route has more than 116 bends and has an elevation gain of approximately 1200 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys.
There are several different viewpoints along the way, which provide the opportunity to simply enjoy the magnificent scenery. For example, the Aichinger Hütte viewpoint towers high above the Gailtal valley, while the Rosstratte car park at the top offers an unique view of the panorama of the entire region.
The Villach Alpine Road attracts motorists, cyclists, hikers, and more alike. Although the road is open year-round, during the winter season (for example, from mid-November to mid-April) maintenance is performed by the City of Villach and will be “passable” if weather permits. If you’re looking for a spectacular scenic drive, the Villach Alpine Road is a great option.
6. Silvretta High Alpine Road
The Silvretta High Alpine Road is a well-known favorite panoramic route in the Austrian Alps, connecting the Montafon area in Vorarlberg with Paznaun in Tyrol, passing through beautiful Alpine landscapes.
The length of the road is 22.3 kilometers (13.8 miles) long with 34 curves and, at Bielerhöhe at 2,032 meters (6,667 feet), ascends to a maximum height of 2,032 meters. Each direction of the scenic drive is stunning, lakes, meadows, and mountains to be seen along the way.
The road is normally open from June to October depending on weather conditions. In winter, Bielerhöhe can be accessed via the Vermunt cable car and Tunnel Bus. The Silvretta High Alpine Road will take you on several scenic drives, along with options for large outdoor activities, and beyond the road itself is a beautiful drive that is worth checking out. Be sure to check dates and weather before you head out!
7. Kaunertal Glacier Road
The Kaunertal Glacier Road is a stunning, panoramic toll road regarded as one of the most beautiful in the Alps. The road makes its way into Kaunertal Valley in Tyrol, Austria, rising to 2,750 meters (9,022 ft), at the edge of the Weißseeferner glacier. The road climbs through 29 hairpin bends for a distance of 26 kilometers (16 miles), and you will be astounded by the diverse alpine landscape along the way.
Generally, the road is open from May to late October, but it depends on the weather. The road can be narrow and winding in some sections, so drive slowly and cautiously. The altitude may also cause issues with the performance of your vehicle, so please make sure your car is well-maintained.
You may also visit the Gepatsch Stausee reservoir or hike the various trails to experience the beauty of the region. Overall the Kaunertal Glacier Road is a drive that has to be made if you visit Tyrol, Austria! Just be prepared for the cost of the tolls, the potential weather issues, and the fun twists and turns!
Planning Your Mountain Drive
Due to weather conditions, Alpine mountain roads in Austria generally will be open from May through October. Verify the particular opening dates and any potential road closures before your trip. Tolls are often on these scenic pathways, and the low money cost is inconsequential compared to the experience itself! So put your seatbelt on, downshift, and prepare for some serious jaw-dropping views of the Austrian Alps.
