Speicher Finstertal from Öetz

We did the first half via the Silzer Sattel climb. The second half, up to the reservoir, follows this same profile. There’s a very steep section in the middle of the climb, near the first tunnel (a stretch of several hundred meters at 12–15%). After that, you get a bit of a breather. Just before Kuhtai, turn right, go downhill briefly, and then tackle the grueling final 3 kilometers to the reservoir. An insane climb. At 1 km from the summit, it becomes almost impossible, with gradients of 15% once again. The long tunnel 500 meters from the finish is fascinating—water drips down its walls. It’s still a real struggle here, partly due to the altitude (2,300 meters). The view is more than worth the effort.

A beautiful climb with little traffic, generally good road surface, and… cows! For me, the toughest part of the ride to Kühtai was mainly in the first 9 kilometers, especially combined with the heat. Before Ochsengarten, the climb levels off for a bit of recovery, only to be followed by a 1-kilometer wall with an average gradient of around 11 to 12% (the elevation profile on the map doesn’t do this kilometer justice). After this wall, the climb to Kühtai is irregular, with easy sections and sections at or above 10%, which were manageable overall.

Just before the summit, I turned right toward the reservoir. Very challenging, but the reward is amazing. The summit in Küthai didn’t give me that “wow” feeling, but the views at the reservoir, on the other hand, are truly beautiful. If you’ve got the legs for it, definitely give it a try! It’s worth the effort.

Not to the summit but before that left to Kühtai Sattel as part of the Ötztaler. Nice climb through the forest. Immediately steep as you turn out of the valley, everyone stops there to take off jackets, arm pieces etcetera.

Great climb that in fact largely parallels the Kuhtai. Just before the summit, however, you take the turn towards the dam. What you find at the summit is fantastic!