Alpe Schlappold
Germany, europe
N/A
1,740 m
extreme
Year-round
# Alpe Schlappold: Germany's "Heaven's Ladder"
Nestled in the Allgäu Alps near Oberstdorf, Bavaria, Alpe Schlappold towers at 1,740 meters (5,708 ft) and marks one of Germany's highest drivable roads. Perched right on the border with Austria, this alpine gem isn't for the faint of heart.
The road itself is paved, but don't let that fool you—it's brutally narrow and relentlessly steep, averaging over 18% gradient throughout. Nicknamed "Heaven's Ladder," it zig-zags dramatically upward for several kilometers directly beneath the Fellhorn cableway, finally ending at the Schlappold station. The asphalt is rough and weathered, demanding serious driving skills and mental fortitude to navigate safely.
This climb has crushed the confidence of many seasoned drivers. The road is open to private vehicles and cyclists alike, but inexperienced drivers should seriously reconsider attempting it. You'll need nerves of steel, solid car control, and plenty of respect for the mountain. The narrow switchbacks combined with the steep gradient and deteriorating road surface create a genuinely challenging experience that separates the confident from the cautious.
If you're up for an adrenaline-pumping alpine adventure with stunning mountain scenery, Alpe Schlappold delivers—but only tackle it if you're genuinely prepared for one of Germany's most demanding drives.
Where is it?
Alpe Schlappold is located in Germany (europe). Coordinates: 51.5941, 10.0920
Road Details
- Country
- Germany
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 1,740 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 51.5941, 10.0920
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