What is the Timmelsjoch Tunnel?
The Timmelsjoch (colloquially “Timmel”) and the tunnel accessible via the High Alpine Road (Timmelsjoch Tunnel) form a border tunnel between Austria and Italy. The Timmelsjoch Tunnel connects the Austrian federal state of Tyrol with the autonomous region of Trentino–South Tyrol in Italy. Over a total length of around 34 km, the High Alpine Road leading to the Timmelsjoch Tunnel with roughly 30 hairpin bends offers impressive Alpine scenery and provides a more relaxed alternative to everyday commuter and motorway traffic.
Like many other Alpine and mountain pass roads as well as tunnels in Austria, the Timmelsjoch Tunnel towards Italy is a special toll section and is therefore subject to the route toll (special toll). The route toll for the Timmelsjoch Tunnel can be paid on site at the toll station on the Austrian side. The station is located just beyond Hochgurgl (coming from Sölden).
While the Timmelsjoch Tunnel itself is not subject to a vignette, the access roads to the High Alpine Road are vignette-obligatory. It is therefore advisable to purchase a vignette (ideally digital) in our online shop before you travel.
What is the elevation of the Timmelsjoch?
Different figures circulate regarding the exact elevation of the Timmelsjoch. The official Austrian map states 2,474 metres. For comparison, South Tyrol’s GIS lists 2,472 metres. In general, reported values range between 2,470 and 2,480 metres. Divergent figures were temporarily shown on the roadside sign at the pass road and on the operating company’s website. Since construction of the Timmelsjoch Tunnel in 1955 and its opening in 1965, an average of 80,000 to 100,000 cars and 75,000 to 80,000 motorcycles pass through the tunnel each year. The South Tyrolean sections of the pass road have always been part of the Texel Group Nature Park.
FAQ about the Timmelsjoch Tunnel
Is the Timmelsjoch Tunnel subject to a (route) toll?
Yes, the Timmelsjoch Tunnel is toll-liable because a route toll must be paid.
Is the Timmelsjoch currently passable?
Yes, the Timmelsjoch is open daily from 7:00 to 20:00.
How long does it take to drive over the Timmelsjoch?
The drive over the Timmelsjoch and through the Timmelsjoch Tunnel, including the adjoining High Alpine Road down to Merano, takes around 1.5 hours (90 minutes).
Is the Timmelsjoch free of snow?
Yes, the Timmelsjoch is currently snow-free and can be used as normal.
Where is the toll station at the Timmelsjoch located?
The toll station is situated above the tourist resort of Hochgurgl. This is where the fees for both the Italian and Austrian sections of the road are collected.
What is the gradient of the Timmelsjoch?
The average gradient is 6.3%, with a maximum gradient of 13%.
