Driving the Pustertaler Hohenstrasse road in Tyrol
Austria, europe
32 km
1,441 m
easy
Year-round
# Pustertal High Alpine Road
Ready for an epic Alpine adventure? The Pustertal High Alpine Road is basically the poster child for scenic Austrian driving—think dramatic twists, jaw-dropping mountain vistas, and charming villages straight out of a postcard. Built back in 1923, this 32 km (19.88 miles) beauty connects the villages of Leisach and Abfaltersbach while climbing over 700 vertical meters through some seriously stunning terrain.
What makes it so special? Everything, really. The road winds through lush meadows, dense forests, and picture-perfect little towns, all completely toll-free. You'll hit a maximum elevation of 1,441m (4,727 feet) at the highest point, with some sections climbing at a gnarly 17% gradient. That means plenty of hairpin turns and switchbacks to keep things interesting—definitely an unforgettable ride if you're into winding mountain roads.
The best part? It's open year-round and fully paved, so you can tackle it whenever the mood strikes. Whether you're a road trip enthusiast or just looking for an incredible drive through the Austrian countryside, the Pustertal High Alpine Road absolutely delivers on every front.
Where is it?
Driving the Pustertaler Hohenstrasse road in Tyrol is located in Austria (europe). Coordinates: 47.5583, 14.2108
Road Details
- Country
- Austria
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 32 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,441 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 47.5583, 14.2108
Related Roads in europe
moderateRoute Chalais-Vercorin
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Route Chalais-Vercorin: A Thrilling Alpine Drive Nestled in the heart of Switzerland's Rhone Valley, the Route Chalais-Vercorin is an absolute gem for anyone craving dramatic mountain scenery. This 10.2 km stretch connects the charming villages of Chalais and Vercorin and delivers some seriously fun driving through the Swiss Alps. The well-maintained asphalt road is a driver's dream—think hairpin turns hugging the mountainside with jaw-dropping valley views below. It's exhilarating stuff, though fair warning: things get considerably busier on weekends and during peak holiday season, with over a thousand vehicles sometimes making the climb in a single day. Here's where it gets interesting. The route squeezes through three narrow tunnels that are genuinely tight—we're talking single-file traffic only, so passing isn't an option. There's a strict 4-meter height restriction too, so oversized vehicles need not apply. The real challenge? Frequent rockfalls keep this stretch genuinely unpredictable, particularly between the tunnel sections. Bottom line: If you're after a scenic, adrenaline-pumping Alpine drive with some teeth to it, Chalais-Vercorin delivers. Just go in with your eyes open and respect the mountain's moods.
hardArflinafurgga
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Arflinafurgga: Alpine Adventure Awaits Looking for a real mountain challenge? Arflinafurgga is calling your name. This badass pass sits at 2,245m (7,365ft) in the Plessur Alps of Graubünden, Switzerland, and it's not messing around. Here's the real talk: this isn't a scenic highway cruise. The road is gravel and rocky, with stretches that'll rattle your teeth and test your nerve. Steep grades, tippy sections, and bumpy terrain are all part of the deal. You'll need serious 4x4 credentials and a solid off-road setup to tackle this beast. **Timing matters.** The pass typically locks down from October through June, so plan your assault for the warmer months. Even then, weather can be a total game-changer—thunderstorms roll in fast and can turn the already gnarly road into a legitimate four-wheel-drive obstacle course or shut it down entirely. **Who should attempt this?** Experienced off-road warriors only. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your jam, if heights make you queasy, or if your vehicle isn't equipped for serious alpine terrain, this one's not for you. But if you're confident behind the wheel, love a genuine challenge, and don't mind some white-knuckle moments, Arflinafurgga delivers the authentic Swiss Alps experience that'll make for some seriously memorable stories.
hardSex de Marinda
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Sex de Marinda: Switzerland's Rugged Alpine Challenge Ready for an adventure? Sex de Marinda is calling—a seriously high mountain pass sitting pretty at 2,797 meters (9,176 feet) in Switzerland's Valais region. This is legitimately one of the country's loftiest roads, and yeah, it definitely feels like it. Here's the real talk: this isn't your typical Sunday drive. The road to the summit winds through the Swiss Pennine Alps as a gnarly mix of gravel, rocks, and bumpy terrain that'll test your skills. Expect constant elevation changes—up, down, left, right—with a trail that doesn't mess around. The 5.9km ascent packs in 542 meters of elevation gain, averaging a steep 9.18% gradient with some sections pushing past 12%. Even seasoned drivers find the tight twists and narrow sections genuinely challenging. The pass is typically accessible from late June until the first major snowfall hits, but honestly? Conditions can close it down anytime. Snow clearance isn't always guaranteed, so road closures are pretty common. Always check before you head out. **What you need to know:** This route demands a 4x4 vehicle—no exceptions. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your jam, skip this one. Summer thunderstorms can turn the gravel into impassable mud in minutes, so pay attention to the forecast. Bottom line? Sex de Marinda is pure, unfiltered alpine adventure for those who can handle it.
hardIs N232 Road paved?
🇵🇹 Portugal
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on Portugal's N232! This mountain road, nestled in the heart of central Portugal, is not for the faint of heart. We're talking twisty-turny to the MAX. Seriously, some sections are switchback city! The road's paved and generally in good nick, offering some surprisingly fast corners. Just be warned, it gets pretty narrow in places. You'll climb to a whopping 1,427m (that's 4,681ft!) above sea level, with some ramps hitting an 8% gradient! How long is this epic drive? It stretches for 86.6 km (53.81 miles) from Mangualde (off the A25) to Belmonte (connecting to the N18). Budget about 2 hours to soak it all in. And is it worth it? Absolutely! You'll be cruising through the stunning Serra da Estrela Mountains, with views that'll blow your mind. The most intense section is a 37km (23 miles) stretch between Gouveia and Manteigas, boasting over 100 turns! Get ready for a white-knuckle ride with incredible scenery.