Alpbach to Davos Road Trip: Alpine Drive Guide

The route from Alpbach to Davos covers approximately 200 kilometres, weaving through the Austrian Tyrol into Switzerland. The journey typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, but with stops it can easily stretch into a full day of exploration. One of the most intriguing aspects is the crossing of the border near St. Anton, where you pass through the Arlberg region, famous for its avalanche barriers and the historic Arlberg railway tunnel. This drive offers a mix of high alpine passes and lush valleys.

• Key Highways: B171 to A12 (Inntal Autobahn), then A14/E60 towards Bludenz, followed by B188 into Davos.
• Toll Information: Austrian motorway vignette required (10-day sticker around €9.40). Switzerland also requires a vignette (annual CHF 40).
• Fuel: Prices vary; fill up in Austria where fuel is typically cheaper than in Switzerland. Notable stations: Shell in Rattenberg (near Alpbach) and Agip in Landeck.

For those wondering how long to drive Alpbach to Davos, the clear road time is 2 hours 45 minutes, but budget extra for border delays in peak season. The best stops Alpbach to Davos include medieval villages and panoramic viewpoints.

Road quality is excellent throughout, with well-maintained asphalt and clear signage. However, the Arlberg region can have sudden fog banks and icy patches even in late spring. Advisable winter equipment includes snow chains, as local laws mandate winter tyres from November 1 to April 15.

For families, recommended stops include the Alpbachtal Minigolf and the Alpbach Wildlife Park (free entry). Pet-friendly options abound: many rest stops have designated pet areas, and hotels in Landeck accept dogs. For fatigue management, set rest points every 90 minutes, such as the Raststation Zams (off A12) with a coffee shop and walking trail.

Hidden off-route spots include the Gaislachkoglbahn in Sölden (famous James Bond film location) and the quiet village of Vent im Ötztal, known for its alpine botanic garden. To discover more such gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The drive passes through the Karwendel Alps, the Lechtal Alps, and the Rätikon range. Each region offers distinct geology: limestone peaks near Alpbach, greywacke zones around Landeck, and the silvery phyllite rocks of the Silvretta. In autumn, larch forests turn golden, while summer showcases vibrant green pastures dotted with wildflowers.

Local commerce thrives in small villages like Flirsch, where a weekly farmer's market sells Tyrolean cheese and speck. The things to do between Alpbach and Davos include visiting the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens (detour of 30 km) or the planned WWT (WasserWelten) hydro-electric exhibition in St. Anton.