Zillertal High Elevation Road

Zillertal High Elevation Road is a scenic mountain road in Austria, which offers stunning views of the Zillertal Alps and the Zillertal valley. The road is also known as Zillertaler Höhenstraße in German, and it is one of the most popular attractions in the region. The Zillertal High Elevation Road rises to an elevation of 2,020 meters above sea level and provides breathtaking views of the Zillertal Alps. The 48-kilometer route was built in the early 1960s to help with the growth of Alpine meadows for local farmers. As a result of its exceptional scenic driving potential, the road was made available to the general public. The route is currently used by motorcycle enthusiasts, leisure drivers, and those who want to enjoy Tirol’s rich history and gorgeous surroundings. Individuals in need of nourishment may refuel their batteries with excellent meals served at friendly mountain hotels and refreshment booths located along the route.

History of the Road

The Zillertal High Elevation Road was built in the early 1960s, as a project to facilitate the cultivation of alpine pastures for local farmers. The road was constructed by the Zillertal Alpine Road Cooperative, which consisted of 33 municipalities and 104 alpine pasture owners. The road was financed by the state of Tyrol, the federal government, and the European Union. The road was officially opened in 1967, and it was later extended and improved in the following years. The road was also opened to the public, as a scenic route for tourists and visitors. Today, the road is one of the most impressive and beautiful alpine roads in Austria, and it attracts thousands of drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists every year.

Features of the Road

The Zillertal High Elevation Road is a toll road, which means that you have to pay a fee to access it. The fee varies depending on the season, the vehicle type, and the number of passengers. The road is open from May to October, weather permitting. The road is closed during the winter months, due to snow and ice.

The road is 48 kilometers long, and it climbs up to 2,020 meters above sea level. The road starts from the Zillertal valley, and it connects five villages: Hippach, Zell am Ziller, Aschau, Ried, and Kaltenbach. The road has 21 bends, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The road is paved and well-maintained, but it is also narrow and winding, so you have to drive carefully and respect the speed limit. The road is suitable for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, but not for buses, trailers, or caravans.

The road has several points of interest along the way, such as lookout points, restaurants, huts, and playgrounds. You can stop at these places to enjoy the scenery, have a snack, or take a break. Some of the most popular stops are:

Melchboden: This is the highest point of the road, at 2,020 meters. It has a large parking area, a restaurant, and a farm with animals. It also has a ski movie track, where you can record your own ski video.
Kreuzwiesenalm: This is a cozy and authentic hut, at 1,880 meters. It has a panoramic terrace, a restaurant, and a playground. It also has a fun park, a halfpipe, and a bag jump for skiers and snowboarders.
Zellberg: This is a small village, at 1,800 meters. It has a church, a museum, and a cheese factory. It also has a toboggan run, which is open all year round.

Highlights of the Road

The Zillertal High Elevation Road is a great experience for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and driving. The road offers some of the best views of the Zillertal Alps, which are part of the Central Eastern Alps. The Zillertal Alps have more than 80 peaks over 3,000 meters, and they are home to glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls. The road also offers a glimpse of the Zillertal valley, which is one of the most popular and diverse valleys in Tyrol.

Zell am Ziller, Austria