Here is a view into the Passer valley on our way up to the Pass itself.
The road on the Italian side is steep, bending and narrow but breathtaking. Definitely worth some stops along the way up (The pass is closed however for lorries and vehicles with trailers due to elevation, steepness and the narrow road).
The name Timmelsjoch is older than that of the Brenner, first being documented in 1241 as "Thymelsjoch", but the road officially opened up for public on July 17th, 1959 after four years of construction work.
Due to the exposed high mountain situation the opening date of the Timmelsjoch - Hochalpenstrasse depends essentially on the snow situation as well as area conditions.
According to experience the road can be opened mostly between the end of May and the beginning of June and is closed in fall (in winter the road is ofcourse also closed).
The pass had just opened up and therefore the amount of snow was still enormous.
Slowly we drive into the Oetztal valley. We just don't know where to look first.
Even Elgar was enthusiastic about this 'secret gap' in the alps. He was thrilled to be out of the car and enjoyed the scenery. But all good things come to an end and with one more look we drive on towards Oetz.
This was an exceptional beautiful day. We really can recommend anyone to take this pass instead of the Brennerpass, but only when you have plenty of time and the weather is good.