Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse, Austria
The Glossglonker High Alpine Road was built between 1930 and 1935, and spans 48 Kilometres. With 36 ends, it’s highest point is Edelweissspitze at 2571m high. Every kilometre and every turn you make is a treat – it’s no surprise that people travel from all over the world to drive down this amazing, scenic road.
Along this drive you will travel past Austria’s largest mountain, the 9km Pasterze. There are plenty of drop offs along the way, where you can learn about the history of the road and the villages you stop at.
For those drivers who are pretty scared of heights, you will have to prepare yourself mentally – the roads are very steep, but that is what makes this drive such a spectacle. There have been many drivers who have ‘frozen’ on steep roads across the world, unable to move. We recommend watching a few Youtube videos before travelling to Austria. Additionally, if you want to steer off from the main road, be aware that although they also provide an amazing drive, the roads are very narrow.
Moving away from the dangers, the Grossglockner Road will provide you with probably one of the best drives of your life. If you want to read more, checkout out the 12 attractions of the Grossglockner Road.
Also published on Medium.
