Riding the Grattinger Sattel Pass: Auenwinkelstraße – Wöbring in Austria

The Auenwinkelstraße – Wöbring road is situated in Austria, crossing the Grattinger Sattel mountain pass within the Gurktaler Alps. The route connects the settlements of Auenwinkelstraße and Wöbring, with the town of Murau located approximately 6.7 km (4.2 miles) from the starting point. The road lies within the broader Gurk- und Lavanttaler Alpen region, a subrange of the Alps known for its forested slopes and moderate elevations. An interactive map showing the precise route of the Auenwinkelstraße – Wöbring road can be found at the end of this article.

The Auenwinkelstraße – Wöbring route extends for approximately 8.9 km (5.5 miles), with an elevation range from 901 m (2,956 ft) to 1,188 m (3,898 ft). The road is predominantly surfaced with asphalt of good quality, providing a generally smooth ride. Riders will encounter a mix of gently curved and moderately twisty sections, making it suitable for those who appreciate a technical but not overly demanding mountain pass. The road is mostly of medium to wide width (about 90%), with a smaller proportion being narrow. Most of the route consists of a single lane (about 74%), requiring attentive riding, especially when encountering oncoming traffic. Only a small portion (15.3%) passes through inhabited areas, so expect a largely rural and natural environment throughout the journey.

The highlight of this route is the crossing of the Grattinger Sattel, a mountain pass at 1,170 m (3,839 ft) that serves as a gateway between valleys in the Gurktaler Alps. The pass is not widely known by a specific nickname among motorcyclists, but its local name is well recognized in the region. The surrounding Gurktaler Alps offer a landscape of rolling alpine meadows and forested hills, with opportunities for detours to nearby attractions such as the historic town of Murau, known for its medieval architecture and brewery. The area is less frequented than some of Austria’s more famous alpine passes, providing a quieter riding experience.

The Grattinger Sattel pass and the Auenwinkelstraße – Wöbring road are generally open to motorcycles throughout the year. However, due to their alpine location and elevation, winter conditions can lead to temporary closures or hazardous riding surfaces, especially after heavy snowfall or during periods of ice. Riders are advised to check local traffic reports or the ASFINAG traffic reports for up-to-date information on road conditions and closures before planning a trip. There are no known event-related closures affecting this route on a regular basis.

Currently, there are no tolls or entrance fees required for motorcycles on the Auenwinkelstraße – Wöbring route or the Grattinger Sattel pass. Riders should be aware that toll conditions may change in the future, and it is recommended to consult the ASFINAG toll information website for the most current details regarding tolls and vignettes in Austria. The road is suitable for most motorcycles, but caution is advised on narrow sections and during adverse weather conditions.