Getting to Know the Alps
The Alps stretch across eight countries and remain one of the most dramatic mountain ranges anywhere on earth. Between the tucked-away villages and the jagged, snow-covered peaks, there’s an almost endless supply of scenic routes worth driving. Whether you’re chasing hiking trails or you’d rather just take in the view from a comfortable seat, these roads deliver something memorable at nearly every turn.
The Great St. Bernard Pass
This is one of the oldest mountain routes in the range, carrying centuries of history along with its scenery. Linking Switzerland and Italy, the pass climbs past snow-dusted summits and green valleys, with small alpine villages along the way that make for a natural place to stop, stretch, and try some local food.
A Few Things Worth Slowing Down For
- The Hospice of Great St. Bernard, which has been sheltering travelers since the 11th century.
- Sweeping views of Mont Blanc, the tallest peak in the range.
- A decent chance of spotting ibex or marmots along the higher stretches of road.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Widely considered one of Austria’s most scenic drives, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road cuts through Hohe Tauern National Park for roughly 48 kilometers. The road keeps Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner itself, in view for much of the drive, and it’s dotted with viewpoints and visitor centers that dig into the local ecosystem.
Stops We’d Build a Day Around
- Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, an observation point that delivers some of the best panoramas on the whole route.
- Pasterze Glacier, Austria’s longest, and a striking sight even from a distance.
- Fuscher Törl, a viewpoint that’s tailor-made for photographers.
The Dolomites
Italy’s Dolomites are instantly recognizable for their jagged limestone peaks, and it’s no surprise they hold UNESCO World Heritage status. The area is riddled with trails and driving routes, offering the kind of scenery that works equally well for a hard day of hiking or a relaxed afternoon of sightseeing.
A Handful of Favorites
- Lago di Braies, famous for water so clear and green it barely looks real.
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo, three peaks that draw hikers and climbers from around the world.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo, a town that balances outdoor adventure with genuine alpine charm.
Why We Love Driving This Range
Routes like these are exactly why a private, door-to-door journey makes so much sense in the Alps. Rather than sticking to a fixed bus schedule, we can pull over whenever a viewpoint catches your eye, adjust the pace to match the weather, and let our comfortable Mercedes minivan handle the switchbacks while you take in the view. Our English-speaking drivers know these roads well and can help shape the day around whichever pass or peak interests you most.
Whichever of these six routes you choose — or if you’d like to string several together into one longer Eurotrip — the Alps reward travelers who take their time. Come for the mountains, and let the road do the rest.