Roads, safety and driving in winter
Snow is very normal in the Alps. Whereas in some countries, such as the Netherlands, even a thin layer of white snow can cause complete disruption, in the Alps, thick layers of snow are nothing out of the ordinary. For the locals, it is an annual phenomenon that they have to live with, and daily life is adapted accordingly. Villages and roads are adapted to the winter weather and the inhabitants know how to deal with it. As a tourist, it is a little more difficult, especially if you come from somewhere where snow is not so common.
Snow clearance: ploughing, gritting or leaving it where it is
In inhabited areas and on major transport routes, snow is actively cleared. Large snow ploughs are a familiar sight and often start work early in the morning. In heavy snowfall, they even work day and night. This keeps the roads passable for traffic.
After ploughing, salt is sometimes spread, but because of the significant impact on nature, this is done with care. It is always a balance between road safety and nature. In some places, grit or gravel is used. This provides grip without unnecessarily harming the environment.
High mountain roads and (less important) passes are often closed in winter due to extreme snowfall and avalanche danger. Well-known examples of this are the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße, the Stelvio Pass and the Silvretta Hochalpenstraße.
Avalanches and safety
Avalanche danger is part of mountain life, especially after fresh snowfall or rapidly changing temperatures. Roads and villages are protected against this with avalanche galleries, nets and dams. In cases of increased risk, roads are sometimes closed as a preventive measure or controlled avalanches are triggered. Safety always takes precedence over accessibility.
Driving in the snow: what is expected of you?
Anyone travelling by car in the Alps in winter must take winter conditions into account. Winter tyres are compulsory in many Alpine countries as soon as weather conditions require them. This is not a matter of the calendar, but of the situation. If there is snow, ice or slippery conditions, your car must be prepared for them.
In addition to winter tyres, snow chains may also be mandatory. This also applies if you are already driving on winter tyres. It is therefore wise to always carry snow chains with you and to know in advance how to fit them. This is clearly indicated by signs on many mountain roads.
Driving behaviour in the Alps also differs from what many tourists are used to. You are expected to drive calmly and predictably, keep a safe distance and not take unnecessary risks. Rushing or braking abruptly can actually create dangerous situations, especially on narrow or winding roads.
In addition, it is normal to have to wait sometimes. Roads may be temporarily closed for snow clearance or due to avalanche danger. This is generally well communicated and is part of winter traffic in the mountains. Flexibility and patience not only make driving in the Alps safer, but also a lot more enjoyable.
Last but not least
Snow in the Alps is not always magical, but can sometimes make life a little more difficult. Roads are generally cleared, closed where necessary and always with safety in mind. For visitors, good preparation, patience and flexibility make a winter trip through the Alps a lot more enjoyable. So don't let a thick layer of snow stop you, but prepare well and enjoy yourself.
