Austria's diverse landscape, from the majestic Alps to pristine lakes and charming villages, makes it a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer journey, these scenic routes will showcase the best that Austria has to offer.
1. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Perhaps Austria's most famous driving route, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road winds through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. This engineering marvel offers 48 kilometers of curves and panoramic views, reaching an altitude of 2,504 meters at its highest point.
The road takes you through diverse alpine ecosystems, with the mighty Grossglockner (Austria's highest peak) as your backdrop. Be prepared for hair-raising turns, stunning viewpoints, and potential wildlife sightings including marmots and ibex.
2. Silvretta High Alpine Road
Connecting Tyrol and Vorarlberg, this 22-kilometer mountain road offers spectacular views of the Silvretta mountain range. The route features 34 hairpin turns and climbs to an elevation of 2,032 meters at the Bielerhöhe Pass.
The crystal-clear Silvretta Reservoir along the way provides a perfect spot for a break, with numerous hiking trails branching off from the main road for those looking to stretch their legs.
3. Villach Alpine Road
This 16.5-kilometer toll road in Carinthia leads to the summit of the Dobratsch mountain, offering breathtaking views of the Julian Alps, the Karawanken range, and the Carinthian lake district. The road ascends through different vegetation zones, from mixed forests to alpine meadows.
At the top, you'll find observation platforms, mountain huts serving traditional Austrian cuisine, and several hiking trails for further exploration.
4. Vienna Woods and Helenental Valley
Just a short drive from Vienna, this route takes you through the picturesque Vienna Woods and the romantic Helenental Valley. Begin in the spa town of Baden, then follow the winding road along the Schwechat River through the valley.
Historic ruins, including the Rauhenstein and Rauheneck castles, dot the hillsides. The route eventually leads to the former Mayerling hunting lodge, site of the infamous 1889 tragedy involving Crown Prince Rudolf.
5. Wachau Valley Drive
This UNESCO World Heritage Site follows the Danube River between the towns of Melk and Krems. The roughly 40-kilometer route takes you past terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, medieval castles, and baroque abbeys.
Must-stop locations include the magnificent Melk Abbey, the charming town of Dürnstein with its blue church tower, and any of the numerous vineyards offering tastings of the region's acclaimed white wines.
6. Nockalm Road
Winding through the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve in Carinthia, this 35-kilometer alpine road showcases the unique rolling hills (or "Nocks") that characterize this region. With 52 curves and reaching an altitude of 2,042 meters, it offers both driving excitement and natural beauty.
The area is known for its diverse plant life, including many medicinal herbs. Several themed stops along the way educate visitors about the region's natural and cultural heritage.
7. South Styrian Wine Road
For a more relaxed pace, the South Styrian Wine Road meanders through Austria's "Tuscany," a landscape of gentle hills covered with vineyards and orchards. This 25-kilometer route connects charming wine villages and offers countless opportunities for wine tasting and culinary delights.
The area's distinctive feature is the many Buschenschank, traditional wine taverns serving homemade wine and regional specialties in idyllic settings with sweeping views.
8. Salzkammergut Lake District Drive
This route takes you through the stunning Salzkammergut region, connecting crystal-clear alpine lakes surrounded by towering mountains. Start at Lake Fuschl, then continue to St. Gilgen on Lake Wolfgang, and further to Bad Ischl, the former summer retreat of Emperor Franz Joseph.
The final stretch leads to Hallstatt, possibly Austria's most photographed village, perched between mountains and lake. The entire route offers numerous swimming spots, boat rental opportunities, and charming lakeside cafes.
9. Gerlos Alpine Road
Connecting Salzburg and Tyrol, this spectacular mountain road features the impressive Krimml Waterfalls at its starting point. As you ascend via a series of hairpin turns, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Hohe Tauern mountains.
The road reaches its highest point at the Gerlos Pass (1,628 meters) before descending into the Zillertal Valley, famous for its ski resorts and traditional Alpine hospitality.
10. Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road
This cross-border route connects Austria's Ötztal Valley with Italy's South Tyrol. The Austrian section climbs through 30 kilometers of spectacular mountain scenery to the Timmelsjoch Pass at 2,509 meters.
Along the way, you'll find the Top Mountain Crosspoint, which houses a motorcycle museum at the highest elevation in Austria. The road offers dramatic views of glaciers and Alpine peaks, making it a must-drive for mountain enthusiasts.
Tips for Austrian Road Trips
- Timing: Most alpine roads are open only from May to October due to snow conditions. Check opening times before planning your trip.
- Road Access: Remember that many scenic routes in Austria require digital road access registration through services like PathFinder.
- Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Check forecasts and be prepared for sudden temperature drops, even in summer.
- Wildlife: Drive carefully, especially during dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.
- Viewpoints: Take advantage of designated viewpoints (Aussichtspunkte) for safe photo opportunities.
With its well-maintained roads, stunning landscapes, and excellent infrastructure, Austria offers some of Europe's most rewarding driving experiences. These ten scenic routes showcase the country's diverse beauty and provide unforgettable road trip adventures for travelers of all interests.
