Fernpass Full Closure on 27 June 2026
The Fern Pass in the Austrian federal state of Tyrol is one of the most popular Alpine routes for continuing towards Italy via the A7 (Füssen/Reutte) without major detours. On Saturday, 27 June 2026, however, the B179 between Reutte and Nassereith will be completely closed for two hours due to a demonstration. The date coincides with the start of several summer holidays and could lead to significant traffic disruptions. Find out here which alternative routes are available, what you should keep in mind regarding the Fern Pass, and to what extent the topic of tolls plays a role.
Background: Fern Pass demonstration June 2025
This full closure is being initiated by a citizens' initiative opposing the planned Fern Pass tunnel. The demonstration will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., meaning the route will be impassable during this time. Since a high volume of traffic is expected, traffic jams are likely both before and after the closure. According to current information, a further demonstration on the same route could also occur in August 2026.
179 closure Tyrol: timing and duration
Authorities expect long tailbacks before the full closure, particularly in the morning. Patience is also required after the B179 reopens, as traffic will only clear slowly. Since this day also happens to be a major travel day, a wide detour is recommended to avoid possible traffic jams or long waiting times.
Date: Saturday, 27 June 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Section: Fern Pass route (B179) between Reutte and Nassereith
Fern Pass diversion: possible alternatives
If you are planning a trip during the period mentioned, you should choose an alternative route well in advance. Along the Fern Pass, the nearest detour option is the route Mittenwald – Seefeld – Zirler Berg to the Inntal motorway (A12); however, this is only partially suitable for vehicles with trailers, as a driving ban for trailers applies in the northbound direction. In addition, the risk of traffic jams there is also high.
Further alternatives:
Via the Memmingen interchange (A7/A96) towards Lindau and onward on the Austrian Rheintal motorway (A14) to the Arlberg expressway S16
Via the Ulm interchange (A8/A99) and Munich to the Inntal triangle (A8/A93) near Rosenheim, then via Kiefersfelden to the A12 (Inntal motorway)
These diversions are possible in both directions of travel. Anyone who allows a bit more time and sets off early can better avoid holiday traffic.
Toll information
The B179 is often regarded as a toll-free connection within Austria if you travel directly from Füssen/Reutte over the Fern Pass towards Nassereith. However, as soon as you switch to motorways such as the A12 or cover further stretches within Austria, the vignette requirement for vehicles up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight applies. For heavier vehicles (over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight), a distance-based toll using the GO-Box is required instead.
Purchase your digital vignette with us now and benefit from our simple and convenient ordering process from the comfort of your home. Our support team is available 24/7 and can assist you with any questions regarding tolls in 15 different languages. Please also note that an additional special toll may apply for certain tunnels and mountain pass roads in Austria.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
We wish you a safe journey to Austria and are happy to help with any questions regarding toll regulations. You can find detailed information about tolls in Austria in our guide. Use our route planner to plan your trip. With the help of our route planner, you will see all the toll products you need for your journey. If you have any questions about tolls that remain unanswered, you can reach our support team at any time via email.
FAQ about the Fernpass
Answers to the most common questions on this topic.
When is the Fernpass full closure?
The full closure will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
What alternative routes are there for the Fernpass closure?
A large-scale detour via A7/A96 – Lindau – A14 – S16 or via Ulm – Munich – Inntaldreieck – A12 is recommended. The route Mittenwald – Seefeld – Zirler Berg is only suitable to a limited extent and is off-limits for vehicles with trailers heading north.
How long does the B179 closure at Fernpass last?
Officially, the route is closed from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Longer traffic jams can occur before and after this time.
Is there a toll requirement on the Fernpass route?
The direct Fernpass route (B179) is usually driven without a vignette. However, as soon as you head onto Austrian motorways or need a GO-Box for vehicles over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, you should arrange the appropriate toll products in advance. Changes to the toll conditions for the Fernpass route could, however, follow in 2028. Learn more about the Fernpass in our guide.
Why is the Fernpass route being closed?
The closure is due to a demonstration opposing the planned Fernpass tunnel and advocating for a shift of traffic to rail.
Will there be further demonstrations at the Fernpass?
According to information from the demonstrators, there could be another blockade on the B179 in August 2026, although an exact date has not yet been set.
