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Austria is defined by the vertical majesty of the Alps. The mountain roads here are engineering marvels, designed to conquer gravity while offering some of the most dramatic vistas in Europe.
Austria offers some of the most diverse landscape experiences for travelers who believe that the journey is the destination. From the sharp mountain ridges to the coastal horizons, driving in this region is a meditative act. For those in vintage vans or heavy campers, the geography of Austria presents both immense beauty and unique challenges.
The secondary road network here is more than just infrastructure; it is a portal to history. Many of the routes we have selected follow ancient trade paths or historic borders. Unlike the fast-paced motorways, these scenic drives allow you to stop in small villages where time seems to have slowed down.
In Austria, the "Slow Road" philosophy is deeply rooted in local culture. Whether it is a wine-growing region with centuries-old cellars or a high-altitude mountain pass that is only open a few months a year, the pacing of the road dictates the pace of your discovery.
Many roads in this region feature gradients above 10%. If you are traveling in a classic vehicle with a smaller engine, ensure your cooling system is in top shape before attempting the climbs we have marked as "Steep".
Timing is everything in Austria. The high passes are often snow-locked until late May, while the coastal routes shine brightest in the golden hours of early autumn. We recommend allowing at least 25% more time than GPS suggests—not because of traffic, but because you will want to stop for the view.
Our collection for Austria includes 5 verified tracks. Each has been selected for its unique "slow" quality—minimal billboard interference, maximum horizon contact, and a road surface that speaks to the character of the land.
Many of these routes go deep into rural territory. Ensure you have enough fuel and fresh water, as services can be sparse on the secondary networks of this region.
Austria's highest mountain pass road. A masterpiece of engineering that brings you face-to-face with the Pasterze glacier and the Grossglockner, the country's highest peak. WARNING: 36 hairpins and an ascent to 2,504 meters. The climb is non-stop and very steep. This is the ultimate test for your van's temperature gauge and brakes on the way down. Use engine braking!
A stunning drive through the heart of the Austrian Lake District. This route connects crystal-clear lakes like Hallstätter See, Wolfgangsee, and Mondsee. Visit the world-famous UNESCO village of Hallstatt. The roads are mostly gentle and follow the lake shores, making it a relaxing experience for vintage vans. High mountains rise directly from the water, offering dramatic scenery without the stress of high-alpine passes.
A magnificent drive along the Danube river, Europe's second longest river. This section through the Wachau valley is a UNESCO heritage site. You'll drive past terraced vineyards, apricots orchards, and impressive monasteries like Melk Abbey. The road follows the river bank and is remarkably flat, making it an absolute joy for any vintage van. High cultural density and beautiful river views.
The 'Dream Road of the Alps'. This iconic route connects Vorarlberg and Tyrol. It features 34 hairpins and reaches its highest point at the Bielerhöhe (2,032m). You'll drive directly past the turquoise Silvretta reservoir with the Piz Buin glacier in the background. WARNING: Very steep and winding. It's a challenging climb for a vintage van, but the road is excellent and the high-alpine views are world-class.
Known as the 'Styrian Tuscany'. This narrow, winding road runs directly along the Austrian-Slovenian border through a landscape of steep vineyards, poplars, and traditional wine taverns (Buschenschank). While the terrain is hilly, the climbs are shorter than in the Alps. It's a sensory journey through one of Europe's most beautiful white-wine regions. Perfect for slow, gourmet-focused van travel.
Open our interactive map to get elevation profiles, weather forecasts, and AI co-pilot insights for every single route.
Launch Interactive Map