Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Austria
There's a reason the Grossglockner Road is often cited as the finest drive in the Alps, a 48 km rollercoaster of sheer glacier-encrusted mountains, waterfalls, forested slopes, jewel-coloured lakes, and 4,000 m peaks on almost every distractingly lovely bend. The crown is Grossglockner itself at 3,798 m, Austria's highest peak, and the rapidly retreating Pasterze Glacier below the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe lookout.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Bruck an der Großglocknerstraße
The northern toll gate at the Salzach Valley floor. The road climbs immediately through spruce forest; the white Hohe Tauern peaks appear above the treeline within 5 km.
- Fuschertörl
The first major pass at 2,393 m. Above the treeline the full Glockner ridge appears, along with marmots that sit in the road and refuse to move.
- Edelweiss-Spitze
A 2,571 m platform reached by a short spur off the main road. A 360-degree panorama takes in 37 peaks above 3,000 m.
- Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe
Face-to-face with the Pasterze Glacier at 2,369 m. Austria's highest peak, the 3,798 m Grossglockner, fills the skyline; a funicular descends to the ice.
- Heiligenblut
A Gothic village at 1,288 m on the southern descent. A 15th-century church spire rises against the Grossglockner backdrop; inside, a relic of Christ's blood from Constantinople.
Where to Eat
- Restaurant LukashanslAustrian
Traditional Austrian dishes served in a cozy alpine setting with panoramic mountain views.
- Gasthof FuscherlackeAustrian
Authentic Austrian meals with fresh local ingredients, located along the scenic Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
- MankeiwirtAustrian
Rustic mountain hut offering hearty Austrian fare and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Things to Do
- Grossglockner High Alpine RoadScenic Drive
A breathtaking drive through the Alps, offering panoramic views and access to numerous hiking trails.
- Pasterze GlacierNature
Austria's largest glacier, accessible via a scenic hike from Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe.
- Heiligenblut ChurchHistoric Site
A picturesque Gothic church set against the backdrop of the Grossglockner, dating back to the 15th century.
Travel advisory
A toll fee is required to drive the Grossglockner High Alpine Road; purchase it at the entrance gates. The road is closed roughly November through May due to snow. Steep gradients and tight switchbacks demand attentive driving, especially in wet or foggy conditions.