The Grossglockner High Alpine Road and cyclists - a summertime story full of misunderstandings

Mr Hörl, should cyclists really only use the Grossglockner High Alpine Road during off-peak times?
No, of course the road can be used by any cyclist at any time of day, we don't make any rules.

But would you prefer cyclists to arrive early in the morning and later in the afternoon?
Currently, 80 per cent of cyclists ride at rush hour. For safety reasons, we would like to point out that this is a high mountain road, that there are no cycle paths and that accidents involving cyclists have increased significantly. It is therefore advantageous for all road users to be kept apart. The volume of traffic is significantly lower at the edge of the day. If you have the choice, it is best to avoid the ‘rush hours’. This increases safety and also enables a more intensive experience of nature. Our recommendation is therefore to make more use of the off-peak times.

In your opinion, what is the ideal time to experience the Grossglockner High Alpine Road by bike?
A departure in the valley in the morning between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., at the latest by 8:00 a.m., is a good time. And in the afternoon from 3.00 pm, when the road is much less busy.

Can you understand if the cycling community feels disadvantaged that it should be left behind because of the high volume of traffic?
As I said, this is a recommendation. The bottom line is that all road users should be able to enjoy the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in the best and safest way possible. That is why we have cooperated with the police and taken measures with regard to motorised traffic: a 70 km/h speed limit, additional speed cameras and a slow driving campaign with the police and ÖAMTC. 

How do you get the message about the ideal times to ride uphill out into the biking community?
We spread the information via our website and social media. The most effective way is direct communication on the ground. We are therefore grateful for the support of tourism partners and accommodation providers in the region who actively inform their cycling guests to make more use of off-peak times.