Alpine sightseeing on the Silvretta High-Alpine Road
Would you like to explore lofty heights without having to go hiking or climbing? It’s easy: Simply get in your car, board a bus, get your motorcycle ready or hop in the saddle of your mountain bike! With its breathtaking views and world-famous twists and bends, The Silvretta High-Alpine Road between Partenen and Galtür attracts countless mountain enthusiasts every summer.
From transport route to tourist attraction: the Alpine pass
The magnificent mountain scenery the famous Alpine pass road winds through has been captivating visitors for decades. Numerous hairpin turns, an impressive Alpine panorama and the deep blue waters of Lake Vermunt and the Silvretta reservoir create a unique landscape.
Originally, the Alpine road was created to transport materials during the construction of the power plant between 1925 and 1930. Eight years later, in 1938, the high-altitude transport route constituted the first section of the Alpine connection between Partenen in the Montafon region and the Tyrolean Paznaun valley. The pass road was opened to public traffic on 23 June 1954. Two-lane traffic was possible from 1961 onwards.
Facts & figures about the Silvretta High-Alpine Road
Over a distance of 22.3 kilometres, the Silvretta High-Alpine Road boasts 34 hairpin turns and a maximum gradient of 12 per cent. It starts in Partenen in the Montafon region, at 1,051 metres above sea level, and continues over the Vermunt mountain pass to Silvretta-Bielerhöhe. There, the Alpine pass reaches its highest point at 2,032 metres. The route traverses through the Silvretta mountain range into Tyrol’s Paznaun valley.
Here are some key facts:
- only open in summer
- toll road
- € 15 per car
- no trailers
- no overnight parking
- maximum length of 13.8 metres for coaches
Exploring the Alpine twists and bends on two wheels
Do you prefer to explore nature from the saddle of your bicycle or motorcycle? Whichever you prefer, the Silvretta High-Alpine Road will be a rewarding experience. Did somebody say potholes? Not on this road! Motorcyclists navigate the 32 distinctive hairpin turns on a perfect road surface.
You can also explore the magnificent mountain scenery at more than 2,000 metres above sea level by mountain bike, for instance during the Silvretta Bike Safari. The moderately difficult tour covers a total distance of 31.5 kilometres and takes about four hours to complete. When you take a break, you can even catch a glimpse of Vorarlberg’s highest peak, the Piz Buin, towering above the natural panorama of the Montafon region.
Silvretta-Bielerhöhe
While for many visitors, the drive along the Silvretta High-Alpine Road is the main attraction, high-altitude enthusiasts are also drawn to Silvretta-Bielerhöhe. For those who take a break there, the highest point of the Alpine pass offers impressive views of the Piz Buin and plenty of opportunities for great summer adventures.
For instance, treat yourself to an exciting mountain bike tour, take a walk around Silvretta reservoir or embark on a high-alpine fishing trip!
Silvretta Classic Rallye
In early summer, you can see an unusually high number of stylish vintage cars up on the steep road and down in the valley. Since 1998, the Silvretta Classic Rallye has been taking place every year in Vorarlberg’s Montafon region. The event is world-famous, attracting fans of all ages to the Alpine region.
The subsequent E-Vehicle Competition makes for additional excitement on the winding road and keeps spectators on the edge of their seats. An event tip not to be missed!
