Driving the curves and tunnels of Malta High Alpine Road
Austria, europe
14.4 km
1,902 m
easy
Year-round
# Malta-Hochalmstraße: Austria's Alpine Thrill Ride
Ready for one of Austria's most exhilarating drives? Head to Carinthia in the southern Alps, just north of the charming village of Malta in Spittal an der Drau District, and discover the Malta-Hochalmstraße—a spectacular toll road that'll have you gripping the steering wheel in the best way possible.
This 14.4km (8.94 miles) beauty climbs high into the majestic Hohe Tauern range, winding its way up to Kölnbreinsperre, Austria's highest concrete dam sitting at a jaw-dropping 1,902m (6,240ft) elevation. Originally built to help construct that engineering marvel, the road was later opened to the public as a tourist attraction—and honestly, it's worth every detour.
Buckle up for a driving experience that's part scenic tour, part adrenaline rush. The road hugs the Malta river as it snakes through six dramatic natural stone tunnels carved directly into the rock face, complete with tight switchbacks that'll test your skills. With gradients reaching 13% and some hairpin sections narrowing to single-lane, you'll need focus and respect for this road. Two strategically placed traffic lights manage flow at the trickiest points, keeping everyone safe.
Just a heads up: this route is only open May through October, between 7 am and 6 pm, and the entire road is perfectly paved. Whether you're driving a car or riding a motorcycle, this is the kind of journey that reminds you exactly why you love the open road.
Where is it?
Driving the curves and tunnels of Malta High Alpine Road is located in Austria (europe). Coordinates: 47.8774, 13.5462
Road Details
- Country
- Austria
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 14.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,902 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 47.8774, 13.5462
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