1,560 m, Rossfeld Panoramastraße, Germany, circular road from/to Berchtesgarden: This is a beautiful but extremely steep and technically demanding climb, with several sections over 20% gradient and a maximum of around 25%. After the toll section, the road becomes quiet, with only occasional tourists. The upper part has some steep ramps but is generally a beautiful climb with around 6% average gradients, good road surface, and excellent summit views.

1,409 m, Riedbergpass, Germany, pass road connecting Fischen and Balderschwang: The Riedbergpass is a tough little Alpine climb and Germany’s highest paved mountain pass. From Fischen/Obermaiselstein, the ascent is particularly demanding, with long sections above 10% and several steep ramps. The road surface is excellent, but traffic can be heavy and fast-moving in summer. Despite this, the pass offers a rewarding climb with impressive mountain scenery and a few restaurants near the summit.

1,178 m, Oberjochpass, Germany, pass road connecting Bad Hindelang in Germany and Schattwald in Austria: 
A beautiful, winding road climbs from Bad Hindelang to the pass, with eight well-spaced switchbacks and a smooth, perfectly engineered surface. The route continues into the Tannheimer Valley and towards the picturesque Haldensee, with lovely mountain views throughout. A scenic and enjoyable Alpine road that is as rewarding to ride as it is to admire.

1,129 m, Spitzingsattel, Germany, pass road connecting Neuhaus and Valepp: The climb to Spitzingsattel/Spitzingsee a tough part of the route toward Valepp and Rottach, which is the a highlight. The road is wide and in good condition, with beautiful Alpine scenery, waterfalls and streams. The climb is steep (often over 10%) for nearly 2.5 km, with no hairpins to provide respite. It’s relatively short but physically demanding. Traffic can also be heavy on good-weather days and holidays.

1,123 m, Sudelfeldpass, Germany, pass road connecting Brannenburg, Niederaudorf and Bayrischzell: The Sudelfeld climb from Brannenburg is a beautiful and well-maintained ascent, with much of the lower section shaded. The opening kilometres are relatively easy before a very steep section of up to around 18%, including a short but steep tunnel. After the tunnel, the gradient eases and the remainder of the climb is more manageable. Traffic is generally limited because of the toll road and daytime motorcycle restrictions, although it can become busier, particularly in good weather. Early mornings and weekdays are recommended for a quieter ride. The road is wide and in excellent condition, and the climb provides a good route into the Sudelfeld ski area, with options to continue towards Bayrischzell/Schliersee or Kufstein.

1,118 m, Ammersattel, Germany, pass road connecting Plansee and Groswang: Despite the at times heavy traffic, particularly motorcycles, this is a beautiful Alpine road with plenty to enjoy. The route winds through dense pine forest, with a small river running alongside the road and a handful of idyllic houses scattered through the valley. The scenery has a character of its own, quite different from the landscapes around Plansee or Ettal. The route also passes close to Linderhof Palace, one of Bavaria’s most famous and beautiful sights. Although the palace itself isn’t visible from the road, it is well worth stopping to visit if you have the time.

941 m, Achenpass, Germany/Austria, pass road connecting Kreuth (Germany) and Achensee (Austria): The Achenpass connects Lake Tegernsee in Germany with Lake Achensee in Austria, with the border crossing the pass itself. The route has a distinctly different character on either side: the German section winds through dense woodland, while the Austrian side opens into beautiful alpine meadows with impressive mountain views. Although the road is not a major through route, it can still be busy at times. A cycle path on the Austrian side provides a quieter alternative. Riding early in the morning or outside the main season transforms the route, giving the pass a wonderfully peaceful and remote Alpine character.

869 m, Ettaler Sattel / Ettaler Berg, Germany, pass road connecting Oberau and Oberammergau: The route passes the famous Ettal Abbey and can be particularly busy during the peak tourist season and when the Oberammergau Passion Play is being performed. It remains an enjoyable road to cycle though, with a cycle path providing a quieter option through the wider sections of the valley. Ettal Abbey is certainly worth a stop, making this a rewarding route despite its popularity.

858 m, Kesselberg, Germany, pass road connecting Kochelsee and Walchensee: The Kesselberg is a steady, well-surfaced climb through forest, with a series of sweeping hairpins and a consistent gradient. The main attraction is the view over Lake Kochelsee, which provides a welcome backdrop to the ascent. Traffic, particularly motorcycles, can be noticeable, but early morning or quieter weekdays offer a more relaxed experience. As part of a longer ride towards Innsbruck and Seefeld, the Kesselberg makes an excellent opening climb, with the road continuing to rise gradually for many kilometres beyond the pass.