One of the last,
true winter adventures
The Planai-Classic
Registration for the 30th Planai-Classic is now open!
The Planai-Classic is an uncompromising challenge for both man and machine. Our focus is on finding the snowiest and most remote routes in the Austrian Alps and putting participants to the test under extreme conditions. We deliberately choose secluded, snow-covered back roads and mountain passes while consistently avoiding busy main highways in order to preserve the authenticity of the winter driving experience. Instead of well-maintained asphalt roads, deep snow, icy surfaces, and demanding alpine conditions set the pace. Those who take part experience a return to true analog motorsport, where electronic driving aids have no place and driving skill takes center stage in historic vehicles built up to 1976. The event features regularity tests, timing tests, and various forms of time controls, all designed to challenge both precision and endurance.
How the Planai-Classic Works
Thursday: The Start of the Adventure on the Dachstein Road
Thursday begins with technical scrutineering and participant check-in. The first highlight follows shortly thereafter: at dusk, the field sets off onto the closed Dachstein Road. The journey begins in the renowned winter sports resort of Schladming, where participants are instantly transported into a different world. The climb to elevations of up to 1,700 meters challenges drivers with difficult light conditions, blowing snow, and strong winds. It is an immediate immersion into the event, testing both driving skill and the reliability of the classic cars under extreme alpine conditions.
Friday: The Winter Stages
On Friday, the field ventures deep into the snow-covered side valleys of the Enns Valley. The route is designed to push both driver and machine to their limits. Every kilometer on remote back roads demands maximum concentration, as the stopwatch never stops ticking. At midday, participants once again tackle the ascent of the Dachstein Road, this time in daylight, followed by a ride on the Dachstein cable car to a shared lunch at an altitude of 3,000 meters. The afternoon features numerous regularity and timing tests, including a unique challenge at the trotting track in Gröbming, where participants must set and maintain their own target lap times on the horse-racing circuit. The day concludes in a relaxed atmosphere, with participants enjoying traditional Austrian hospitality and cuisine in a classic local inn.
Saturday: The Grand Finale on the Planai
Saturday marks the sporting climax of the event. Following a stage across the snow-covered Niederöblarn Airfield, participants face the grand finale on the closed Planai mountain road. Two runs are contested on this iconic route, guaranteeing winter driving challenges under the toughest conditions. The ascent is characterized by narrow roads, towering snowbanks, and unpredictable gusts of wind sweeping across the summit regions. Precision, endurance, and driving skill are put to the ultimate test as competitors tackle the final kilometers of the rally. The subsequent awards ceremony brings the adventure to a close, celebrating an event that captures the spirit of motoring from a bygone era and immerses participants in the raw beauty and demanding conditions of the alpine winter landscape.
KEY FACTS ABOUT THE PLANAI-CLASSIC 2027
- Date: 14–16 January 2027
- Registration deadline: 15 November 2026
- Eligible vehicles: Up to model year 1976
PLANAI-CLASSIC 2026 | Aftermovie