Experience the Majestic Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
Explore the breathtaking Großglockner Hochalpenstraße, a scenic alpine route showcasing Austria's stunning nature and its highest peak.
A brief summary to Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
- Seidlwinkl 56, Fusch, 5672, AT
- +436546650
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6:45 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6:45 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6:45 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6:45 pm
- Friday 6 am-6:45 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6:45 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6:45 pm
The Großglockner Hochalpenstraße is one of Austria's most iconic tourist attractions, known for its breathtaking views and exhilarating driving experience. This high alpine road stretches approximately 48 kilometers and connects the villages of Fusch and Heiligenblut, leading you through a landscape of stunning mountain scenery, lush valleys, and glacial lakes. As you ascend to an altitude of over 2,500 meters, the views become increasingly spectacular, culminating in the breathtaking sight of the towering Großglockner peak, Austria's highest mountain. Along the route, you'll find numerous lookout points with well-placed viewing platforms, perfect for taking in the panoramic vistas and capturing memorable photographs. The road is not just a journey, but an experience that highlights the natural beauty and grandeur of the Austrian Alps. For those looking to enhance their visit, several hiking trails branch off from the main road, leading to hidden gems and offering a chance to get up close with nature. The area is also rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for chamois, marmots, and a variety of bird species. The Großglockner Hochalpenstraße is open year-round, but it is most accessible during the summer months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant with wildflowers. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the visitor center at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, where you can learn about the glacier and the history of this magnificent region. Whether you are driving, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenery, the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most beautiful alpine landscapes.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, even in summer.
- Check road conditions before your trip, as snow can occur year-round at higher altitudes.
- Consider taking a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the area's geology and ecology.
- Don't miss the interactive exhibits at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitor center.
Getting There
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Bus
From Zell am See, walk to the nearest bus stop (Zell am See Bahnhof) and take the bus line 660 towards Mittersill. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the stop 'Fusch an der Großglocknerstraße'. From the bus stop, walk approximately 1 km along the main road, following the signs for Großglockner Hochalpenstraße. The entrance to the scenic road is located at Seidlwinkl 56, 5672 Fusch.
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Train and Bus
Start at Zell am See train station. Take a train to Bruck Fusch (approximately 10 minutes). From Bruck Fusch station, transfer to the bus line 660 towards Mittersill. Get off at the stop 'Fusch an der Großglocknerstraße'. Walk approximately 1 km to reach the entrance of Großglockner Hochalpenstraße at Seidlwinkl 56.
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Walking and Public Transport
If you enjoy walking, you can take a scenic route. Start from the center of Zell am See and head towards the lake. Walk along the promenade until you reach the Fuschbach stream. Follow the stream, which will eventually lead you to the main road. From there, catch a bus or continue walking along the road for about 4 km to reach Fusch an der Großglocknerstraße, where you can find the entrance to the scenic road.
Attractions Nearby to Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
Landmarks nearby to Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
- Hohe Tauern – die Nationalpark-Region in Kärnten Tourismus
- Stausee Margaritze
- Kernzone National Park
- Gamsgrubentunnel
- Grossglockner Gletscherbahn
- Pasterze
- Wasserfallwinkel
- Jungfernsprung
- Wasserfallwinkelkeessee
- Wild & Adventure Park Ferleiten
- Gletscher Pasterze
- Hörndlscharte
- Wasserfall Erlebnisweg
- Walcher Grundalm
- Schleierfall