Silvretta Hochalpenstraße Special Toll
What is the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße?
The Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in the Alps and is not without reason referred to as a "dream road for connoisseurs". It connects the Montafon in Vorarlberg with the Paznaun Valley in Tyrol and winds for around 22 kilometres through a breathtaking high-alpine landscape. With its 34 hairpin bends, the route climbs from Partenen at 1,051 metres up to the Bielerhöhe at 2,032 metres and continues towards Galtür. Along the road, spectacular views await you, as well as the well-known reservoirs Vermuntsee and Silvrettasee. The combination of route alignment, altitude and natural scenery makes the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße a truly special driving experience — an adventure that thrills motorists, motorcyclists, cyclists and vintage car enthusiasts alike.
The road owes its present-day form to the expansion carried out in connection with the power plant construction by Illwerke. Initial development took place between 1925 and 1930, before the route was opened to public traffic in 1954 and fully completed by 1961. Since then, it has been one of the most well-known alpine roads in Austria.
Current Status: Closure until 2030
The Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is currently completely closed and not accessible at this time.
The reason for this is several rockfalls and mudslides in 2024 and 2025. Despite initial safety measures, geological surveys have shown that a short-term reopening is not possible.
A reopening is currently planned for no earlier than summer 2030. Extensive construction work will be necessary until then. Further information can be found in our news article on the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße. Should there be any new updates on the closure, you will find them in that news article.
Special Toll: What does it mean?
The Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is fundamentally a so-called special toll route. This means that a separate fee is charged for its use (in addition to a vignette or distance-based toll). Currently, however, no toll is payable, as the road is completely closed and therefore cannot be driven on. After reopening, the special toll will presumably be levied again on a regular basis.
Alternatives & current visiting options
Even though the classic drive along the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is currently not possible, the region remains accessible.
Via the Vermuntbahn on the Vorarlberg side, visitors can still reach the area towards the Bielerhöhe in summer. From the Tyrolean side via the Paznaun Valley, certain sections are accessible and even toll-free during the construction phase.
The surrounding regions also offer charming landscapes and views. Nevertheless, the fact remains: the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße in its entirety is a unique experience that cannot be fully replaced by any alternative route.
If driving the complete panoramic road is a central highlight of your trip, it may be worth postponing this section to a later date (ideally after the planned reopening in 2030). Feel free to find out more about the most beautiful panoramic roads in Austria that you should not miss. Nevertheless, a visit to the region around the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is still worthwhile for those who would like to see the Bielerhöhe.
Important traffic regulations
Even during normal operation, special rules apply on the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße:
Trailer ban on the entire route
Overnight parking ban
Coaches: maximum length of 13.8 metres must not be exceeded
These regulations serve to ensure safety on the high-alpine road.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
Even though the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is currently closed, the region around the Bielerhöhe remains a worthwhile travel destination. After the planned reopening in 2030, the route will presumably once again be one of the highlights of any trip to Austria.
Please note when planning your trip that many roads in Austria are subject to a vignette requirement or a distance-based toll. You can easily purchase your digital vignette for Austria conveniently online with us. Detailed information on toll and special tolls in Austria can be found in our guide. If you have any questions about tolls in Austria or our digital products, our multilingual support team is available at any time by email.
FAQ on the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße
Is the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße currently open?
No, the road is currently completely closed.
When will the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße reopen?
The reopening is planned for summer 2030.
Is the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße subject to a toll?
Yes, it is fundamentally a special toll route. During the closure, however, no toll is charged, as you cannot use the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße.
Are there alternatives to the route?
Yes, certain sections remain accessible. However, a complete drive-through is currently not possible.
