Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road is a breathtaking 81 km journey that starts in the city of Sölden in Austria and ends in Sankt Leonhard in Passeier in Italy. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Bliggferner and Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße, where you can experience the stunning beauty of the Alps. The best time of year to take this road trip is during the summer months, when you can enjoy breathtaking mountain views and lush green landscapes. The road conditions are generally good, making it suitable for drivers of all levels. This road trip is an experience you won't soon forget and can be managed on a moderate budget.
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number of days
81 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Sölden
Distance 81 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: slow
18.7 kWh
Airports
INN
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Sölden in Austria is the perfect starting point for the "Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road" road trip. Located in the heart of the Ötztal Alps, it is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, offering plenty to see and do. From hiking, mountain biking and skiing to cultural events, there is something for everyone.
The main attractions in Sölden include the impressive Gaislachkogl Gondola, which offers stunning views of the alpine landscape, as well as the Ice Q restaurant, which is featured in the James Bond movie Spectre. Visitors can also explore the town's historic center, which is home to many traditional buildings.
The closest international airport to Sölden is Innsbruck Airport (INN), located about an hour away. There are car rental facilities available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip and explore the area.
Once you're ready to start your trip, you can explore the beautiful Ötztal Valley, with its alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and steep gorges. Along the way, you will find many interesting attractions and sights, such as the Ötztaler Ache, the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road, and the Stubai Glacier. There is also a wealth of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Sölden is the perfect starting point for your "Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road" road trip, with its stunning natural beauty, historic buildings, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. With car rental facilities available at Innsbruck Airport (INN), you can easily explore the area and experience all the sights and attractions the Ötztal Valley has to offer.
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Sölden
- Bliggferner
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: slow
3.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the most exciting road trip stage from Sölden to Bliggferner! This 16km drive will take you less than an hour, but you will be amazed by the incredible views and attractions along the way.
First, you will be mesmerized by the picturesque views of the Ötztal Valley, where you will find the highest ski resort in Austria, the Rettenbach Glacier. This is an ideal spot for skiing and snowboarding lovers.
After that, you will reach the Gaislachkogl Mountain, where you can take the cable car up to the summit and enjoy the 360-degree views of the surrounding area.
On the way to Bliggferner, you will find the ice-covered lake of Gepatschferner, where you can take a stroll and admire its beauty.
Finally, you will reach the Bliggferner, the largest glacier in the Ötztal Alps. Here you can take a guided tour and learn about the fascinating history of this unique place.
These are just some of the highlights of this incredible stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bliggferner - Austria - Europe - Scenic Drive - en.wikipedia.org
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2
Bliggferner
- Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
9.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Then the stage from Bliggferner, Austria to Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße is the perfect choice for you! The 36km drive will take you less than an hour, but the amazing sights along the way will stay with you for a lifetime.
Start your journey in Bliggferner and take in the breathtaking views of the majestic mountains of the Stubai Alps. From there, you can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Ötztal Alps as you drive to Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße. Along the way, you will be treated to the stunning views of the Ötztaler Ache River, the lush meadows, and the lush forests.
At the end of your journey, you will reach Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße. Here you can marvel at the spectacular views of the Ötztal Alps, the Stubai Alps, and the Ötztaler Ache River.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße - Austria - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße - Austria - Europe - Scenic Drive - www.needpix.com
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3
Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße
- Sankt Leonhard in Passeier
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: modest
7.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip stage? Then get your car and start your journey from Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstraße, Austria! This 29 km long driving route will take you less than an hour and it is definitely worth it.
The first stop on this stage is the Timmelsjoch Pass, the highest pass road in Austria, with stunning views of the Ötztal Alps. After that, you can visit the village of Moos, where you can explore the local church, the old farmhouses and the picturesque alpine meadows.
Continue your journey to the village of Sankt Leonhard in Passeier, where you can explore the historical buildings and monuments. Don't forget to visit the local church and the nearby museum to learn more about the history of this place.
Finally, you can take a break at the nearby lake and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Sankt Leonhard in Passeier - Austria - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Sankt Leonhard in Passeier
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Sankt Leonhard in Passeier is the perfect ending point for the Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road. Located in the Italian Alps, Sankt Leonhard offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The town is made up of charming cobblestone streets and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the historical center, which is filled with fascinating churches and monuments. The nearby Passeier Valley is also worth a visit, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For travelers who wish to take a break from driving, there is plenty to do in Sankt Leonhard. The town is home to many shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also explore the nearby museums and galleries. Adventure seekers can take part in the popular winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
When planning a road trip to Sankt Leonhard in Passeier, the closest international airport is Innsbruck Airport (INN). From the airport, it is a short drive to the town, making it an ideal destination for a road trip.
With its breathtaking views and abundance of activities, Sankt Leonhard in Passeier is the perfect ending point for the Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road. Whether you want to explore the town’s historical center or take part in some winter sports, Sankt Leonhard has something for everyone.
Sankt Leonhard in Passeier - Austria - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Oetztal & Timmelsjoch Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Sölden
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End:
Sankt Leonhard in Passeier
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Distance:
81 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Innsbruck Airport (INN)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Ötztal & Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road is an awe-inspiring 81 km journey that stretches from Sölden, Austria, to St. Leonhard in Passeier, Italy. This route is not just a drive but an experience, traversing the heart of the Eastern Alps and offering unparalleled access to the region's natural beauty, complete with captivating Alpine views and opportunities to explore local culture in the picturesque towns en route.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
Travelers embarking on this adventure will be treated to breathtaking stops such as the Rettenbach and Tiefenbach glaciers near Sölden, and the Timmelsjoch Pass, which sits at an elevation of 2,509 meters, providing stunning views across the Ötztal Alps. The drive is internationally recognized for its dramatic Alpine scenery and for providing a vantage point to appreciate the majesty of the surrounding mountains, such as the Wildspitze, Tyrol's highest peak.
Best Time to Go:
The perfect window for this Road Trip is from June to October when the Timmelsjoch Pass is typically open. The summer months offer clear skies and lush greenery, while early autumn presents a mosaic of vibrant foliage. These seasons allow travelers to fully enjoy the panoramic views and the high Alpine environment in all its splendor.
Potential Risks:
While the Road is meticulously maintained, it is important to remain cautious, as mountain passes can be tricky due to sudden weather changes, potential fog, and limited visibility. It's advisable to check local forecasts and Road conditions before setting off and to be prepared for the occasional closure, especially outside of the peak summer months.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
The Road Trip can be done on a moderate budget, with Road tolls and potential accommodation being the primary costs. The Road itself is well-paved and suitable for most vehicles, providing a smooth drive. Along the way, there are informative stations that detail the natural and cultural history of the area, making the journey not only a visual delight but also an educational experience.
A good choice for:
With its combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and engineered marvels, the Ötztal & Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road is a quintessential experience for nature lovers and Road Trip enthusiasts. From the moment you ascend the winding Roads to the high Alpine passes, this journey promises a profound connection with the raw beauty of the Alps and an authentic taste of Alpine life in the idyllic towns dotted along the route.