Austria / Italy · Ötztal Alps
Timmelsjoch Pass (Passo del Rombo) — Alpine road guide
Plan the Timmelsjoch Pass between Austria and Italy. Compare the two sides, seasonal opening, toll, vehicle rules, cycling access and summit height.
Quick facts
- Pass elevation
- 2,509 m
- Length
- 11.9 km (Untergurgl)
- Max gradient
- 13%
- Road surface
- Paved
- Typical season
- Late May–October
Map
Timmelsjoch Pass, called Passo del Rombo in Italian, links the Ötztal valley in Austria with the Passeier valley in South Tyrol. The road operator lists 2,509 metres as the road's highest point. Its more recent opening notices describe the pass saddle itself as 2,474 metres; the two figures refer to different points on the crossing.
The two approaches
From the Austrian side, the operator measures 11.9 km from Untergurgl to the road's high point. The road rises through open Ötztal scenery and passes the toll station at Hochgurgl. If you start farther down the valley in Sölden, your ride will be longer.
From the high point to Moos in Passeier, the operator measures 22.7 km. The Italian side is narrower, with tighter bends and vehicle-size restrictions. Choose your direction with the descent in mind: a long mountain descent can be cold even when the valley is warm.
When is Timmelsjoch open?
There is no fixed annual opening date. Snow clearance normally allows the road to open in late May or early June, and the operator usually closes it toward the end of October. Weather can shift both dates or interrupt travel during the season. Check the operator's current road notice shortly before you set out.
Toll and access
Motor vehicles pay a toll; current rates and vehicle rules are published by the operator. The narrow Italian side restricts larger vehicles and trailers. Cyclists may use the road, but the operator requires working bicycle lights. Check the day's permitted hours before planning a crossing, especially a late descent.
History and stops
The Austrian road reached the summit in 1959; through traffic into Italy began in 1968. The Timmelsjoch Experience places small exhibitions along the route about the crossing and its communities. The Top Mountain Motorcycle Museum is beside the Austrian toll station at Hochgurgl.
For a longer ride, pair Timmelsjoch with Grossglockner on an Austrian Alpine tour, or follow the High Alpine Crossing itinerary.
Sources and measurements
The road operator's facts and figures provide the high point, approach distances, gradient and road history. Its snow-clearance guidance explains the typical season. A 2026 opening notice gives the pass saddle as 2,474 m. Figures for a climb depend on its starting point; this page's length fact starts in Untergurgl.