The most beautiful panoramic road in the world The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a masterpiece of engineering, is one of the most impressive panoramic roads in the world and one of the three most visited tourist destinations in Austria. It climbs 48 kilometres to spectacular heights, right into the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park – up to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe at the foot of the Grossglockner (3,798 m), Austria's highest mountain, and the Pasterze, the longest glacier in the Eastern Alps. A breathtaking experience that showcases nature in an impressive way!
Highlights 2026
“The Greatest Roadtrip” in the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is far more than a panoramic route. It is an Alpine landmark, a masterpiece of engineering and an experience landscape within Central Europe’s largest protected area – Hohe Tauern National Park. Over 48 kilometres, it winds its way up spectacular hairpin bends to 2,571 metres above sea level, combining nature, contemporary history and innovative spirit in a truly unique setting.
Since it first opened, the road has stood as a symbol of the connection between people and the high mountains – for access paired with responsibility, for mobility in harmony with the landscape, and for mindful encounters with Alpine diversity. In 2026, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road sets new thematic accents and underscores its role as one of Austria’s most significant cultural, natural and experiential destinations.
Experience Landscape “Glockner Meadows”
Biodiversity between glacier ice and a sea of blossoms
The new exhibition “Experience Landscape Glockner Meadows” focuses on the sensitive natural habitat around Austria’s highest mountain. The Glockner meadows are among the most species-rich ecosystems in the Alps – up to 140 plant species can be found on just 100 square metres.
The exhibition explores Alpine survival strategies, climate change and the importance of traditional mountain meadow mowing for preserving this unique landscape. Interactive listening stations and scientific insights make nature not only visible, but also understandable – for families and for nature enthusiasts alike.
170 years of the Emperor’s visit
“Summit Meeting of Their Majesties”
To mark the anniversary “170 years since Emperor Franz Joseph’s visit to the Grossglockner”, a new exhibition will open in 2026 at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe.
The imperial couple’s visit in 1856 was not a romantic Alpine getaway, but a demanding journey of state. The exhibition traces this historic moment authentically – beyond idealised portrayals – and offers insights into political contexts, personal challenges, and the tension between power, duty and humanity.
A central element of the new visitor experience is the Kaiser Franz Josef Panorama Trail, which turns history into a walkable journey. In addition, “Dining like an Emperor” explores the culinary culture of the Viennese court and offers a surprisingly personal perspective on the monarchy.
140 years of automotive history
The highest vehicle exhibition in the world
At the visitor centre on the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, you will find the world’s highest automobile and motorcycle exhibition at 2,369 metres above sea level.
From June 2026, a special exhibition will spotlight 140 years of automotive history – from the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen to today’s vehicle models. Historic and modern vehicles illustrate technological progress as a continuous principle.
The exhibition combines Alpine high culture with engineering excellence, creating an extraordinary contrast between pristine nature and technological innovation.
finish of the 75th Tour of Austria
From 7th to 12th July 2026, the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe will host a stage finish of the 75th Tour of Austria. The traditional cycling race brings international attention to a high-Alpine setting and highlights the Grossglockner High Alpine Road as both a sporting challenge and a symbolic finish line.
HighFive – the “Big Five” of the Alps
What the “Big Five” are in Africa, the “HighFive” are along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road: ibex, golden eagle, marmot, Apollo butterfly and the Glockner bumblebee.
This deliberate reference places five animal ambassadors of the high-Alpine habitat centre stage. “High” stands for their living areas above 2,000 metres, “Five” for the selected flagship species – and, at the same time, for enthusiasm and shared nature experiences.
The HighFive experience worlds create thoughtfully designed play and learning spaces for children and families. The aim is to make nature tangible through play and to build early awareness for wildlife and nature conservation.
With the new “Apollo butterfly” adventure playground, the third station has already been realised. New in 2026: a dedicated HIGH FIVE audio play and a sing-along, dance-along title song that emotionally connects the individual locations.
Sustainability and the future - Grossglockner ePower
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road continues to invest in sustainable infrastructure. As part of Grossglockner ePower, the charging infrastructure in the region is being expanded on an ongoing basis – powered by 100% renewable energy and designed for high reliability.
This allows the road to combine immersive nature experiences with responsible development, positioning it as a future-oriented mobility route in the high mountains.
For further information:
Mag.a (FH) Patricia Lutz
t: +43 (662) 87 36 73-116
e-mail: lutz@grossglockner.at