Kühtai is a high mountain pass situated in the Austrian Alps, well-known as both a winter ski resort and a challenging summer destination for cyclists. The pass reaches an elevation of 2,020 meters and connects the Ötztal Valley in the Tyrol region with the Sellraintal Valley, providing spectacular alpine scenery along the way.

The approach to Kühtai can be tackled from either the Ötztal side or the Sellraintal side. From Ötz in the Ötztal, the ascent to Kühtai is about 18 kilometers long with an average gradient of around 6.5%. However, several sections of the climb feature much steeper gradients, some reaching up to 18%, which can be particularly deceptive and challenging.

The road to Kühtai is well-maintained but is characterized by a series of sharp bends and steep inclines that demand both physical and mental endurance from cyclists. The elevation and steep grades contribute to the perception that this climb is more difficult than the numbers might suggest.