As avid Austria explorers with years of family road trips under our belt, we've long wanted to tackle the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. This iconic route in Hohe Tauern National Park offers breathtaking views of Austria's highest peak—without the summit hike.
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Standing at 3,798 meters, the Grossglockner is Austria's tallest mountain. While climbing it isn't an option for most, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road delivers you to prime viewpoints. The journey itself—through dramatic alpine landscapes—is equally mesmerizing.
Car enthusiasts rave about the 48 kilometers of pure driving bliss. As a family traveler rather than a speed demon, I appreciate the route's sheer beauty over hairpin thrills. Opened in 1935 and meticulously maintained, it's a safe, well-paved path—no white-knuckle moments required.
Also read: Krimml Waterfalls, Europe's tallest cascades
That said, mountain driving savvy helps. The road climbs swiftly from 1,100 meters to 2,571 meters, with descents that test brakes—you'll smell it in the air from fellow drivers! Tip: Pack motion sickness meds; 36 hairpin turns can unsettle stomachs.
Scenic stops abound: info huts on glaciers, birds of prey, and marmot-filled ecology. We've found the exhibits hit-or-miss, so skip if traveling with kids. Instead, pause for short walks, panoramic views, or one of four themed playgrounds—perfect family breaks.
Also read: Stunning Weisssee Glacier World in summer
You must complete the full route. It culminates at Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (2,369 meters). Park for free in the garage; on clear days, head to the top level and stroll to the Wilhelm-Swarovski observation tower for elevated vistas. Marmots burrow nearby for close-up photos, though watch for parking lot photobombs.
Downstairs, the visitor center screens films on local flora and fauna. The promenade offers unobstructed shots of the Grossglockner and its glacier—pure alpine magic.
We kick ourselves for skipping the glacier tongue hike. Take the lift down, then a 1-hour trail to the ice edge—next time! Weather was ideal for us, but layer up; it changes fast. Also read: Baumzipfelweg Hinterglemm tree canopy walk
Instead, we honored our kids' plea for the play park at the base.
Right at the toll gate, Wild & Erlebnispark Ferleiten beckons families. Free playgrounds kept our kids entertained for hours. The wildlife park requires entry (€18.50 adults, €9.50 kids, free under 6), but our Salzburgerland Card covered it—a smart perk.
Expect native animals in natural habitats; it's enjoyable but not world-class. Great value if bundled.
TIP: Base at Landal GreenParks Rehrenberg in Viehhofen—spacious apartments, central for day trips (max 1-hour drives).
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