Rosi Mittermeier is the highest road tunnel in Europe

Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel is a high mountain tunnel at an elevation of 2.830m (9,285ft) above sea level located in the Austrian state of Tyrol. It’s said to be the highest road tunnel in Europe.

Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel

Why is it called Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel?

Opened as Tiefenbach Tunnel (Tiefenbachtunnel), the tunnel was named after the ski racer Rosi Mittermeier (1950-2023).

Where is the Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel?

Tucked away in the Ötztal Valley, the tunnel links Rettenbach Glacier and Tiefenbach Glacier zones. Both have extensive car parks.

When was the Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel built?

Built in 1982, road and tunnel have been built to accommodate two lanes in each direction, and the average incline is 11 %, and therefore of no problem for cars or buses. The road is accessible for heavy trucks (lorries up to 38 tons) and buses without any problem.

How long is the Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel?

Set high in the Ötztal Alps, the tunnel carries the 15km-long Panoramic Glacier Road, also known as Ötztal Glacier Road (Ötztaler Gletscherstraße in German). The tunnel is 1.729m long and totally paved.

Is the Rosi Mittermeier the highest tunnel in Europe?

The highest point of this toll road is at the southern end of the tunnel, at an elevation of 2.830m (9,285ft) above sea level. At this elevation it’s said to be the highest road tunnel in Europe.

Is the Rosi Mittermeier Tunnel open?

Due to the unique location of the Glacier Road amidst high Alpine regions, there exists always a risk of sudden unexpected precipitation or drop in temperature. It is recommended to carry the necessary equipment at any time of the year. Snow chains in winter months are advisable, as it can snow unexpectedly. The road is only open when considered not dangerous (avalanches). This can sometimes mean that a second road block is possible. Snow chains and steel tracks might be required troughout the year.
Pic: By J Abele (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

 

 

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