Motorcycling the Wurzenpass Straße: Crossing the Karavanke Alps

The Wurzenpass Straße is situated in southern Austria, within the federal state of Carinthia. The road serves as a key alpine crossing, linking the Austrian town of Arnoldstein with the border at the Korensko Sedlo – Wurzenpass, before descending into Slovenia. The route traverses the Karavanke mountain range, a prominent natural barrier between the two countries. The starting point is located near Arnoldstein, approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) from the town center, while the endpoint is also close to Arnoldstein, at a distance of about 6.3 km (3.9 miles). An interactive map showing the precise route of the Wurzenpass Straße can be found at the end of this article.

The Wurzenpass Straße extends for approximately 7.8 km (4.8 miles), providing a relatively short but purposeful alpine crossing. The road is predominantly wide (about 97%), with two lanes throughout its length, ensuring comfortable passage for both motorcycles and larger vehicles. The asphalt surface is of high quality, rated as excellent by most standards, which contributes to a smooth and predictable ride. The route is moderately curvy, offering a mix of gentle and more pronounced bends, but it does not reach the extreme twistiness found on some other alpine passes. Elevation ranges from 522 m (1,713 ft) at its lowest point to 1,079 m (3,540 ft) at the summit, with the actual mountain pass, Korensko Sedlo – Wurzenpass, situated at 1,073 m (3,520 ft). The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly a third of its length, with the remainder traversing forested and mountainous terrain.

The highlight of the Wurzenpass Straße is its crossing of the Wurzen Pass (Korensko Sedlo), a historic route that has long served as a gateway between Austria and Slovenia. The pass is part of the Karavanke mountain range, which forms a natural border and is known for its rugged peaks and dense forests. The broader region is encompassed by the Alps, offering expansive views and a sense of alpine grandeur. While the road itself is primarily functional, the surrounding landscape provides ample opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the cultural heritage of the Carinthia region. Notable nearby attractions include the town of Arnoldstein, with its historic monastery ruins, and the tri-border area where Austria, Slovenia, and Italy meet.

The Wurzenpass Straße is generally open to motorcyclists throughout the year, although temporary closures may occur during periods of heavy snowfall or adverse weather conditions, particularly in winter. There are no permanent restrictions on motorcycle access. As of the latest available information, there is no toll or entrance fee required to use the Wurzenpass Straße. However, toll conditions and regulations may change in the future, so riders are advised to consult official resources for the most up-to-date information. For details on road tolls and fees in Austria, visit the ASFINAG toll information page.

Speed limits on the Wurzenpass Straße vary along its length, with posted limits of 30 km/h (19 mph), 50 km/h (31 mph), and 100 km/h (62 mph) depending on the specific section and proximity to settlements. The road's wide lanes and excellent surface quality make it suitable for riders of all experience levels, though caution is advised during inclement weather or when sharing the route with heavy vehicles. Fuel and basic services are available in Arnoldstein, which serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding region. For those interested in extending their journey, the nearby tri-border area and the scenic valleys of Carinthia offer additional riding opportunities. An interactive map of the Wurzenpass Straße is provided below for route planning and navigation.