Motorcycling the Nassfeld Pass Road: Austria’s Gateway to the Gailtal Alps

The Nassfeld Pass Road, officially designated as Nassfeld Straße (B90), is situated in southern Austria within the state of Carinthia. The route traverses the Gailtal Alps, connecting the town of Hermagor with the Nassfeld Pass (also known as Passo di Pramollo), which marks the border between Austria and Italy. The road is positioned in the Oberkärnten region and serves as a key alpine crossing, providing access to both the Austrian and Italian sides of the Alps. Its proximity to the Gailtal Alps and the broader Alpine range makes it a favored route for those seeking to experience the mountainous terrain of this part of Europe. An interactive map showing the Nassfeld Pass Road can be found at the end of this article.

The Nassfeld Pass Road extends for approximately 12.6 km (7.8 miles), with elevations ranging from 591 m (1,939 ft) at its lowest point to 1,533 m (5,030 ft) at the highest. The route is characterized by a very twisty alignment, making it appealing to riders who enjoy technical mountain roads. The surface is asphalt, with a moderate quality that can be described as fair—neither excellent nor poor, but requiring attention in certain sections. Most of the road is wide (about 83%), with the remainder being of medium width, and only a small portion is single-lane. The majority of the route passes through uninhabited alpine terrain, with roughly a quarter traversing or skirting inhabited areas. The road’s maximum speed limits are typically set at 100 km/h (62 mph) and 50 km/h (31 mph) in lower sections or near settlements. The ascent to the Nassfeld Pass involves a series of switchbacks and curves, demanding focus and skill from motorcyclists. The pass itself, known locally as Nassfeldpass or Passo di Pramollo, is a well-known crossing point and a highlight of the journey. For more information about the pass, see Nassfeld Pass.

The Nassfeld Pass Road is not only a thoroughfare but also a gateway to several attractions in the region. The town of Hermagor serves as the Austrian base for the route, offering amenities and access to the Gailtal valley. The road skirts the Gailtal Alps, a mountain range known for its hiking trails and alpine scenery. At the summit, the Nassfeld Pass area is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports. The pass also provides access to the Italian side, where the landscape and culture shift noticeably. The broader Alpine region, of which this road is a part, is renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Motorcyclists often use the Nassfeld Pass Road as part of longer tours through the Alps, connecting with other notable passes and routes in Austria and Italy.

The Nassfeld Pass Road is subject to seasonal closures due to snow and adverse weather conditions, typically during the winter months. The exact closure period can vary depending on snowfall and maintenance schedules, so riders are advised to check current conditions before planning a trip. There are no permanent restrictions for motorcycles, but temporary closures may occur due to roadworks or events. For up-to-date information on road status, consult the ASFINAG Traffic Information service. The road is generally open to all vehicles during the riding season, but caution is advised in wet or icy conditions, especially on the higher, twistier sections.

Currently, there is no dedicated toll or entrance fee for using the Nassfeld Pass Road itself. However, Austrian regulations require a motorway vignette for vehicles using the national motorway network, though this does not apply to the Nassfeld Pass Road, which is a federal road (Bundesstraße). Riders should be aware that toll conditions may change in the future, and it is advisable to verify the latest requirements before traveling. For comprehensive information on tolls and vignettes in Austria, visit the ASFINAG Toll and Vignette page.