Driving the scenic Schlegeis Alpenstrasse in Tyrol
Located in the province of Tyrol, in Austria, the Schlegeis Alpenstraße is a very scenic mountain road winding its way up into the breathtakingly beautiful mountains. It’s one of the scenic Austrian Alpine roads.
How long is the Schlegeis Alpenstrasse in Tyrol?
Built in 1907, the toll road is fully paved. It’s 13.3 km (8.26 miles) long, running from the village of Ginzling, south of Mayrhofen, to the Schlegeis reservoir. The road is usually open between mid-May and the end of October (weather permitting).
How challenging is the Schlegeis Alpenstrasse in Tyrol?
Its many twists, turns, and narrow sections can pose a challenge to even the most experienced drivers. Some sections are only single-lane and regulated by traffic lights. It has eight hairpins and four tunnels carved into the rocks. With several tunnels along the way, its maximum gradient is 12%. The road starts at 1,000 meters above sea level and takes you around eight hairpin bends and through four natural rock tunnels (3.6 meters height restriction) to the car parks at Schlegeis Reservoir, at 1,806 meters above sea level. The elevation gain is 806 meters.
Is the Schlegeis Alpenstrasse in Tyrol worth the drive?
The journey offers an exhilarating driving experience, with superb views. The drive takes visitors on a spectacular journey up into a high alpine landscape. The panoramic road comprises many beautiful vantage points with views of the Zillertal Alps. Along the route through many natural rock tunnels, you will see waterfalls and the glacier in several places.
Pic: https://www.tirol.at/reisefuehrer/ausflugstipps/ausflugsziele/a-schlegeis-alpenstrasse