Cycle tour 401 | Zillertaler Höhenstraße

Zellberg, Zillertal / Tux Alps
Difficulty ratings: difficult
Route length: 52.6 km
Duration: 7:40 h

Even though the mountain road is far from flat, it makes up for the strenuous climb with wonderful views of the Tux and Zillertal Alps.

Tour character

Five different ascents, one steeper than the other. The longest variant combines the ascent from Ried im Zillertal with the descent to Ramsau. There are hardly any sections to take a deep breath on the ascent, single-digit gradients are the exception. This remains the case until you reach Neuhüttensiedlung, where there are several places to stop for refreshments. You then lose altitude again, which is then regained past the Hirschbichlalm in some extremely steep ramps. Towards Melchboden, the highest point of the mountain road, the terrain slowly levels out and you can finally really enjoy the fabulous view over the Zillertal Alps. This is followed by the winding, also very steep descent back into the Zillertal. Narrow roads throughout with manageable traffic (toll road).

Tour information

  • Requirement: difficult
  • Length: 52.6 km
  • Duration: 7:40 h
  • Elevation uphill:1,890 hm
  • Elevation downhill:1,890 hm

Starting point

Ried i. Z. - Haltestelle Zillertalbahn

Finishing point

Ried i. Z. - Haltestelle Zillertalbahn
  • Fitness level 5 / 6
  • Technique 5 / 6

Features

  • Circular route

Best time of year

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December
Source: Zillertal Tourismus GmbH

Description

The Zillertal High Road is one of the most impressive cycle routes in the Zillertal. Steep climbs, numerous hairpin bends and a route that is paved throughout make it a challenging ride for road cyclists and mountain bikers – accompanied by panoramic views that quickly make you forget the effort.

Anyone wishing to experience the Zillertal High Road in its entirety should start the ascent in Ried im Zillertal. Via the Riedberg, the route climbs steadily uphill, past traditional mountain farms and through wooded slopes to the Neuhüttensiedlung. As you gain altitude, the landscape opens up, repeatedly
revealing impressive views across the Zillertal and the surrounding mountains
.
Along the actual Höhenstraße, the route winds through expansive alpine meadows and high-alpine landscapes. Numerous viewpoints invite you to stop for a moment and enjoy the view of the Zillertal and Tux Alps. The highest point of the tour is at Melchboden at 2,020 metres – a special vantage point high above the valley and, at the same time,  the ideal spot for a well-deserved break.

The route also has plenty to offer in terms of cuisine: numerous alpine inns, huts and snack bars are situated directly on or not far from the Höhenstraße. From a quick bite to eat to a leisurely meal featuring regional specialities, there are plenty of opportunities along the route
to recharge your batteries.

Nearby huts and mountain restaurants

Getting here

  • Parking

    at Mizun Reservoir or at the designated huts

More tours in the surrounding area

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