Driving through the Hohe Tauern National Park in a convertible

The Hohe Tauern are among the most impressive alpine regions in Europe: majestic peaks, crystal-clear mountain lakes, roaring waterfalls, and deep valleys shape the landscape. Being on the road in a convertible here means feeling nature directly – the wind in your hair, the scent of alpine meadows, and the sound of glacial streams.

This tour takes you from Zell am See through Heiligenblut and Spittal an der Drau to Mittersill and showcases the full range of alpine beauty. Winding roads, open passes, and picturesque villages make the trip an unforgettable convertible road trip.

A Circuit Full of Contrasts

The route can be divided into four stages, each offering different landscape and cultural experiences. From the wide mountains and lakes around Zell am See to the high alpine flair in Heiligenblut and the historic towns in the Drau Valley – each stage brings unique impressions. Being on the road in a convertible means savoring every curve, every viewpoint, and every opportunity to stop.

First Stage: Zell am See

The tour starts in Zell am See, one of Austria's most popular holiday resorts. Lake Zell, nestled between snow-capped peaks and green meadows, provides a dreamy backdrop for the beginning of your convertible journey. You can drive along the lakeside promenade, which offers views of the water and mountains. If you wish, you can make a brief detour to Schmittenhöhe, from where spectacular panoramas of the surrounding mountains can be enjoyed. Zell am See combines urban flair with alpine nature – a perfect starting point for the road trip through the Hohe Tauern.

Second Stage: Zell am See to Heiligenblut

From Zell am See, the route leads over winding alpine roads towards Heiligenblut, right at the Großglockner, the highest mountain in Austria. This stage is a highlight for any convertible driver: tight serpentine roads, alpine panoramas, green valleys, and rugged rock formations alternate.

 Heiligenblut itself is a picturesque village known for its Gothic pilgrimage church and its impressive location at the foot of the Großglockner. Being on the road in a convertible or roadster here means enjoying the road to the fullest, stopping repeatedly to take in the mountainous landscape and enjoying the fresh alpine air.

Third Stage: Heiligenblut to Spittal an der Drau

After the high mountains, the route leads into the Drau Valley, to Spittal an der Drau. The landscape becomes gentler, the roads wider, yet the driving pleasure remains intact. Spittal is a charming town with historical buildings, like the Renaissance Castle Porcia, and invites you to take a stroll through its streets. Driving through the town in a convertible is a special experience because the mix of history, culture, and alpine flair makes this section varied. If you like, you can take small detours along the Drau and head to hidden viewpoints.

Fourth Stage: Spittal an der Drau to Mittersill

The final stage takes you back to the heart of the national park, to Mittersill. The route winds through the Salzach Valley and offers views of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and alpine pastures. Mittersill itself is an ideal starting point for hikes or excursions into the surrounding nature. The town combines alpine flair with historical architecture and offers numerous opportunities to unwind and conclude the convertible tour in a relaxed manner. Being on the road in a convertible here mainly means: enjoying the last kilometers, soaking in the views of the mountains, and intensely experiencing the freedom of the alpine roads as you drive the final kilometers back to Zell am See.

Tips for the Convertible Tour through the Hohe Tauern

The Hohe Tauern are a high mountain range – even in summer, the weather can change quickly. Therefore, plan for wind- and rain-proof clothing. Fuel stations are limited on the passes, so prepare the route accordingly. For photo stops, hikes, or small detours, you should allow enough time – often, the most beautiful viewpoints and natural highlights can only be reached on foot. Culinary highlights include the combination of regional specialties such as cheese dumplings, fresh fish from mountain lakes, and hearty alpine dishes.

Conclusion: Nature, Driving Pleasure, and Freedom

Driving through the Hohe Tauern National Park in a convertible means experiencing all facets of the Alps: majestic peaks, green valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and historic towns. From Zell am See through Heiligenblut and Spittal an der Drau to Mittersill, this tour showcases the diversity of the region. Each stage is an experience in itself: winding passes, panoramas, and small places where one can feel nature. Those traveling in a convertible here experience freedom, driving pleasure, and the incomparable beauty of the Alps in all its intensity.