A place to live & relax: Nature and humans in harmony
In 1980 the Carinthian people came to the decision that the Nockberge ought to serve future generations as a place to live and relax in – an area where people and nature could exist in harmony. The emphasis was on protecting the many and varied plants and animals, as well as preserving this agricultural landscape. In 2012 these efforts were recognised by UNESCO, who designated the conservation areas a the. GROHAG, the company who operate the Nockalm Road, are thinking about the maximum sustainability in every conceivable way.
Step by step to greater sustainability
Our daily actions in all areas is geared towards ensuring maximum sustainability and attentive use of natural resources. To do this, GROHAG implements a range of measures to safeguard and protect the environment:
- Deployment of an innovative wast separation system
- A speed of 70 (km/hr) along the entire route
- Ecological mowing to protect insects and wild bees
- Operationg the Sommerbus to supplement individual transport
- Printing of all advertising media and print materials on PEFC-certified paper from sustainably managed forest in austria
- Switch to sustainable materials and regional products for items in the shop
- Promoting E-Mobility
We are of course planning even more ideas to provide greater sustainability and environmental protection. After all, without unspoilt natural surroundings the Nockalm Road wouldn’t be worth visiting …
E-Mobility & Glockner ePower
E-Mobility & ePower in Carinthia's NockbergeOne challenge that GROHAG has increasingly faced in the last few years, is the mobility and energy revolution and the switch to electromobility. For that reason, a few years ago GROHAG began investing in the expansion of e-mobility. As well as discounted tariffs for E-cars and E-motorbikes, the Nockalm Road has also set up its first E-charging stations at Nockalmhof Biosphere Reserve Center (1700 m) and at the Zechneralm (1900 m).
Speed: 70 cruising, not racing!
On the Nockalm Road, as on all other GROHAG experience roads, the speed limit is 70 (km/hr). There are several reasons for this. On the one hand, a reduction in speed increases road safety on high Alpine, twisting roads. Racing and careless driving have no place on the Nockalm Road! For that reason, the speed limits on the Nockalm Road are strictly enforced. On the other hand, the 70 (km/hr) speed limit also protects the unique natural landscape in the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve. Those who drive more slowly emit fewer pollutants. And, last but not least, those who drive more slowly simply have more time to look, marvel and enjoy! Good reasons enough to enjoy the Nockalm Road wholly in keeping with the maxim: ‘cruising not racing’.
„What we do today decides how the world will look tomorrow .“
(Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach)
Tips for your excursion on the Nockalm Road:
pay attention to signposting
Pay attention to signposts in place. These designate various protection zones and indicate areas that are particularly protected.
Avoid making noise & keep to the paths
Be mindful of the plants and animals in the Biosphere Reserve. Always keep to the marked paths and avoid making any unnecessary noise.
take nothing away, leave nothing behind
Do not leave any objects in the Biosphere Reserve! Rubbish in particular can be lethal for many animals. Keep in mind the long-known mountaineering rule – what you take with you up the mountain, you bring back down again. Take nothing with you from the Biosphere Reserve. Animals and plants are conservation-protected and are not to be removed. Minerals too are to be left where they are.
Ensure you have adequate equipment
Please be aware of the fact that along the Nockalm Road you are in Alpine terrain. Wear decent footwear and always bring weatherproof clothing with you. Pay heed to the weather, to Alpine dangers, including avalanche and rock falls. Get information on site from people who have mountain experience about possible risks.
no Camping
Even if it is extremely tempting to pitch a tent for the night with your camper van at a legendary viewing point in the Nocky Mountains, camping and lighting fires is not permitted. There are campsites in many towns in Carinthia districts that you can avail of. Or you could stay the night in one of the many cosy inns along the Nockalm Road.
Bringing your dog with you to the biosphere reserve
Dogs are welcome along the Nockalm Road and in the Biosphere Reserve. Please be aware that leads are compulsory throughout the area.
do not feed wild animals
In spite of best intentions, feeding wild animals can have fatal consequences. If they are fed too often by people, they become dependent on them for food. Animals can also get sick if they consume the wrong kinds of food.
Do you have ideas as to how the Nockalm Road can become even more sustainable? Ideas about additional measures we could put in place to protect our natural surroundings? Then write to us!