The Malta Hochalmstraße is one of the most spectacular Alpine roads in Carinthia and leads into a fascinating high mountain landscape. The destination of this impressive route is the majestic Kölnbrein Dam at 1,902 meters above sea level, one of Austria's most imposing structures. With the country's highest dam and the picturesque Kölnbrein reservoir, it is one of the most popular destinations in Carinthia.
A wide range of experiences awaits you at your destination: the impressive Kölnbrein Dam with the spectacular “Airwalk” viewing platform, the informative VERBUND Energy World Malta exhibition, the “Damm High” practice via ferrata, the family-friendly Kölnbrein Adventure Trail, a souvenir shop and the cozy Malta mountain hotel, which pampers you with culinary delights in the Hochalm panorama restaurant.
The spacious parking lot at the Kölnbrein Dam is also an ideal starting point for numerous hikes and mountain tours that bring the alpine beauty of the region to life.
SEASON 2025: May 10 to October 26
Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Dear guests, your safety is our top priority! Please note that the start of the season may be postponed at short notice due to weather or avalanche conditions. Especially in the months of May and October, we recommend that you check the current conditions at our excursion destination before your arrival.
Safety on the Malta Hochalmstraße
At the narrowest points of the Malta Hochalmstraße, two sets of traffic lights ensure a smooth and safe flow of traffic.
Tip: The first traffic light is located directly at the impressive Maralmbach Falls. The maximum waiting time here is 22 minutes. Use this time to experience the spectacular waterfall up close. A waiting time display on site shows you exactly when the green phase will begin – you won't miss a thing!
The waiting time is significantly shorter at the second set of traffic lights. While you are waiting, enjoy the breathtaking view of the Kölnbreinsperre dam and the picturesque Galgenbichl reservoir – a perfect place for unforgettable photos!
By public transport to the Kölnbreinsperre dam. From July 8th to September 8th, 2024, you have the option of taking the on-demand bus to the Kölnbreinsperre dam.
Timetable for 2025 not yet available.
You can download your holiday photo here!
The Malta High Alpine Road was originally built as a construction road for the impressive Kölnbrein Dam and later opened to the public to offer visitors a unique Alpine experience.
The Alpine road winds its way through 14.4 kilometers of tunnels carved into the rock and tight bends, past rushing waterfalls, up to the Kölnbreinsperre. Even the journey to this popular excursion destination is an unforgettable experience that impressively combines the beauty of nature and the art of engineering.
An unforgettable adventure for the whole family awaits you in the middle of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of VERBUND and experience exciting insights into the generation of electricity and the harmonious connection between nature and technology.
The magnificent mountain scenery invites you to take countless hikes past rustic huts and through picturesque landscapes. For climbing enthusiasts, the family-friendly practice via ferrata 'Damm High' offers a safe and exciting experience. In addition, an adventure trail enthrals young and old with special views and interactive stations. A perfect destination for active families and nature lovers!
The annual motorcycle blessing, the legendary bungee jumping and the daily tours along the impressive dam wall – the events at the Kölnbreinsperre are something very special because of their breathtaking backdrop alone. Whether you are a biker, adventurous, a technology enthusiast, a family or looking for adventure – everyone will find their personal highlight at the Kölnbreinsperre.
Enjoyment and relaxation at 1,933 meters
Located right next to the impressive Kölnbrein Dam, the cozy Berghotel Malta and its panorama restaurant Hochalm await you, nestled in the spectacular mountain world of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Indulge in culinary delights and enjoy the unique view of the majestic landscape from the panorama restaurant – one of the most beautiful places in Carinthia.
For a special experience, the Berghotel Malta offers the opportunity of an unforgettable overnight stay in an extraordinary location at 1,933 meters above sea level. This idyllic retreat is ideal for nature lovers and mountain enthusiasts who want to enjoy the peace and beauty of the Alps.
Day ticket for cars: €24.00
Motorhomes: €32.00
3-week ticket: €44.00
Season ticket: €115.00
Kärnten Card holders: free
Passengers without a Kärnten Card: €6.00
*Important information for motorhome travelers
Please note that camping is strictly prohibited along the entire Malta Hochalmstraße and on the motorhome parking lot at the Kölnbreinsperre. Thank you for your understanding and consideration!
| Day ticket | € 17.00 |
| 3-week ticket | € 41.00 |
| Kärnten Card holders | Free |
| Passenger without Kärnten Card | € 6.00 |
Day ticket per adult €8.00
(max. 40 people, max. €320.00 per bus)
Day ticket per child aged 6-15 €6.00
(max. 40 children/pupils, max. €240.00 per bus)
Carinthia Card holders go free
Group combo offers / Toll & lunch at Berghotel Malta
Day ticket per adult Price
Toll & lunch 2-course menu at Berghotel Malta € 30.00
Toll & lunch 3-course menu at Berghotel Malta € 33.00
The package price decreases on a pro-rata basis for groups of 40 or more.
Detailed information about our group offers can be found here.
*Definition of a travel group
A travel group consists of at least 15 paying persons. From this number, the booked package including all services for the bus driver and the tour guide is free of charge! Please note that the group offer is only valid for bus tour groups. Individual trips by car are not recognized as a travel group.
Collaborating partners
Use the discounted advance-sale tickets, which you can purchase from our collaborating partners such as Motorradland Kärnten, Gemeinde Malta Gästekarte.
Kärnten Card
The Kärnten Card grants the holder free use of the Malta High Alpine Road. Other people travelling in the same vehicle without a Kärnten Card pay €6.00/person. Guided tours of the dam are available at a discount as a bonus partner of the Kärnten Card.
Overnight accommodation
You can also enjoy discounts when you stay overnight along the Malta High Alpine Road at the Berghotel Malta, in chalets or guesthouses. Please make inquiries with your host in advance. Refunds are not possible.
Gift vouchers
Give a voucher for a visit to the Malta High Alpine Road and Kölnbreinsperre dam or for an overnight stay in a mountain hotel. Browse through our voucher offers and give someone a special kind of mountain experience.
