Why is it called Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel?
Austria, europe
15 km
2,830 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Austrian Tyrol, heading up, up, UP into the Ötztal Valley. You're on the Panoramic Glacier Road (or Ötztal Glacier Road if you're feeling German), a 15km stretch of pure alpine bliss.
Then, BAM! You hit the Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel, named after the legendary ski racer. This isn't just any tunnel; at 2,830m (9,285ft) high, it's said to be the highest road tunnel in Europe! It's a 1.729m paved tube connecting the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach Glaciers, both rocking huge car parks.
Built back in '82, it's designed for two lanes each way, so even buses and trucks (up to 38 tons) can handle the 11% incline. But hey, a word of warning: this is serious mountain territory. The weather can flip on a dime, so be prepared for anything, especially snow. Snow chains are a smart move, and keep an eye out for potential road closures due to avalanche risk. Steel tracks may be required throughout the year. But trust me, the views are worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- Austria
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 15 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,830 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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