Drive the historic Grossglockner High Alpine Road to Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe for sweeping views of Austria’s highest peak and the Pasterze Glacier. This private day tour from Salzburg combines short alpine walks, a national park exhibition, and mountain-side cuisine.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You crest the 36 numbered hairpins and the air thins; jagged snowfields and a ribbon of road unfold beneath the highest peak in Austria. At Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (2,370 m / 7,772 ft) the summit of Großglockner dominates the horizon and the Pasterze Glacier unfurls like an ancient river of ice.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required for short, low-elevation walks; comfortable sitting for a full-day vehicle tour is needed
Wildlife
History
The high road was constructed in the 1930s to open the High Tauern mountains to motoring and the KFJ viewpoint is named after Emperor Franz Joseph I, who popularized alpine visits.
Conservation
The route crosses Hohe Tauern National Park boundaries; stay on marked paths, pack out waste and respect seasonal closures to protect fragile alpine habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Private Grossglockner Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for rapid weather changes
Temperatures vary widely between the valley and 2,370 m; pack a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer.
Protect your eyes and skin
High-altitude sun is intense — bring sunglasses with UV protection and high SPF sunscreen.
Wear sturdy footwear
Short walks to viewpoints can be rocky and uneven; low hikers or trail shoes work best.
Plan for motion sensitivity
The road includes many tight hairpins; bring motion-sickness remedies if you’re prone to nausea.
Windproof shell
Protects against sudden alpine winds and temperature drops at high elevation.
Sturdy trail shoes
Provides traction and support for short rocky walks at viewpoints.
Sunglasses & sunscreen
High-altitude sun and reflection from snow increase UV exposure.
summer
Binoculars or zoom lens
Helps spot marmots, chamois and glacier features from viewpoints.