There are several hydroelectric reservoirs in the Montafon, and this road was originally built to service those installations. The high point of the road is the Bieler Höhe, beside the Silvretta Stausee, at an altitude of 2,037 m. From here, a spectacular view opens across the lake toward Piz Buin and its glacier. The reservoir was constructed between 1937 and 1951, regrettably involving forced labour during World War II. Today, exhibits on the dam document the history of its construction.

Work on the road began in 1925 and it was initially completed in 1954 to serve the reservoirs. It was later expanded to its current form by 1961. The result is a remarkable piece of engineering, both in design and in how naturally it threads its way through the mountains. As the Montafon valley comes to an abrupt end, the road begins to climb in beautifully flowing switchbacks, passing the first reservoir before continuing deeper into the mountains toward the Bieler Höhe and the second, impressive reservoir.

I have ridden this road many times, and it is always a wonderful experience. At 15.2 km in length with 1,015 m of elevation gain, it is not the longest, steepest, or highest climb, yet it remains one of my favourites. The road has an almost calming character, alternating between pine forests and open views of the valley below. It is a place where you can truly find your happy place on the bike.