Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of the most spectacular panoramic roads in Europe and is a paradise for convertible drivers.

This legendary route winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park and offers breathtaking views of Austria's highest mountain, the Grossglockner (3,798 m). The combination of perfectly developed road, challenging curves, and a unique mountain landscape makes the drive an unforgettable experience for all those who want to enjoy the feeling of driving and nature to the fullest.

With a length of 48 kilometers, 36 bends, and an elevation difference of about 1,500 meters, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road offers an ultimate driving experience. Especially in a convertible, the tour becomes a pleasure, as you can fully experience the fresh mountain air, the scent of the alpine meadows, and the impressive backdrop.

An unforgettable drive through the Alps

Starting in Bruck: The beginning of an epic road trip

Your adventure begins in the charming town of Bruck on the Grossglockner Road. This small town is the perfect starting point for your convertible tour, where you can stock up on supplies or conduct a final check on your vehicle.

Just after leaving the town, the gentle but steady ascent begins, taking you into a completely different world.

Fuscher Törl: The first great panorama

After some breathtaking hairpin turns, you reach the Fuscher Törl (2,428 m), one of the most well-known viewpoints on the route. Here, an incredible panorama opens up over the surrounding peaks of the Hohe Tauern.

If you like, you can take a short break here and enjoy a traditional snack at the small mountain hut with a view of the impressive mountain panorama.

Edelweißspitze: The highest drivable point

A true highlight on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is the detour to Edelweißspitze (2,571 m). This narrow, paved road leads to one of the best viewpoints along the entire route.

From up here, with clear visibility, you have a panoramic view of over 30 peaks above three thousand meters. Particularly in the early morning hours, the atmosphere up here is magical.

Hochtor: The border between Salzburg and Carinthia

The Hochtor (2,504 m) is the highest point of the actual Grossglockner Road and marks the border between the federal states of Salzburg and Carinthia.

At this historic spot, trade routes were already used during Roman times. Today, it is a perfect stop to enjoy the impressive alpine landscape and take a memorable photo.

Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe: The most spectacular viewpoint

Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe is undoubtedly the most impressive viewpoint of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. Here, you not only have the best view of the Grossglockner but also of the mighty Pasterze Glacier, the largest glacier in Austria.

There are numerous opportunities for exploration:

• Visit to the visitor center, which offers fascinating insights into the geology and wildlife of the region

• Observation of marmots and chamois, which are often seen right next to the hiking trails

• A hike to the glacier, where you can experience the eternal ice up close

For those with time, a longer hike through the glacier region can also be undertaken from here – a unique natural experience.

Descent to Heiligenblut: Spectacular views until the end

After this highlight, the descent to Heiligenblut begins, one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Austria. The winding convertible journey leads through green alpine meadows and offers stunning panoramas time and again.

Once in Heiligenblut, a visit to the famous pilgrimage church of St. Vincent is worthwhile, as it, with the Grossglockner in the background, is one of the most well-known photo motifs in the Alps.

Tips for your convertible tour on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The best time for a drive in a convertible on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is from May to October, with early summer (May/June) showcasing snow-covered peaks and autumn (September/October) displaying its golden colors particularly impressively.

The classic convertible route runs from north to south (Bruck → Heiligenblut), as this way you always have the best panoramas in front of you. Those who want to avoid the main traffic should travel the road either early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Warm clothing is essential because even in high summer it can be quite cold at over 2,500 meters. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important, as the strong high-altitude radiation should not be underestimated. Additionally, be sure to have enough fuel, as there are no gas stations along the High Alpine Road. A camera or smartphone is also a must to capture the unique landscapes.

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road in a convertible

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Europe and an absolute must for anyone who loves driving a convertible. The combination of spectacular curves, high alpine landscapes, and grand viewpoints makes this road trip an unforgettable experience.

Whether you want to enjoy the imposing panorama of the Grossglockner, the impressive glacier world, or the picturesque mountain villages – on this convertible route, you will experience the Alps in all their splendor.

If you're looking for a convertible road trip that perfectly combines driving pleasure, nature experience, and breathtaking views, then you should definitely add this route to your list. So: Top down, engine on, and off you go on one of the most beautiful road trips in Europe!