Zillertaler Höhenstraße
The Zillertaler Höhenstraße is a well-maintained mountain road in the Zillertal region of Austria that climbs to approximately 1815 meters elevation. It connects five different starting points and offers wide views of peaks, valleys, and open alpine pastures along the route.
Built in the 1960s to help mountain farmers manage pastures and control mountain streams, the road gradually became a popular tourist destination. Over time it transformed from a practical access route into a scenic drive that allows visitors to experience alpine landscapes with minimal effort.
The road was originally created to serve mountain farmers managing high pastures, a purpose still visible in the landscape today. Visitors can stop at mountain lodges along the route where traditional regional food reflects the local way of life in the Alps.
The road is accessible to various vehicle types including cars, motorcycles, and small buses up to about 33 feet (10 meters) long, with different tolls for each. Visitors should note that seasonal conditions affect access, and snow or poor weather may temporarily close sections of the route.
The road was designed from the start to serve a dual purpose: managing pastures and controlling mountain streams, not just providing scenic access. This practical foundation gives the landscape a working character that visitors often overlook when enjoying the views.
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