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Embark on a captivating multi-activity journey through the breathtaking Austrian Lakes District, where pristine alpine lakes meet lush pastures and scenic mountain trails. From the spellbinding landscapes of the Salzkammergut discover serene cycling paths and enchanting hiking routes showcasing Austria's natural beauty. Pedal through tranquil valleys and alongside shimmering, mountain-ringed lakes as you make your way to iconic destinations such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Hallstatt, the picturesque Mondsee, and the historic imperial town of Bad Ischl. Along the way, uncover the region's rich cultural heritage by visiting majestic castles, ancient salt mines, and timeless villages steeped in history. Immerse yourself in the region's warm, authentic hospitality with stays at carefully selected mountain hotels and character laden guesthouses. Whether you're cycling, hiking forested trails to view awe-inspiring glaciers, or simply soaking in the beauty of alpine meadows, this trip offers the perfect way to experience Austria's magnificent natural landscapes.
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14kg of CO2-e PP per day
(111kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Lake Wolfgangsee
On arrival at Lake Wolfgangsee make your way to the joining hotel where check-in is possible from mid afternoon. We use a few different hotels in towns at the lake, subject to availability, from St Gilgen to Strobl. The afternoon is free to walk around the lake or relax at a cafe. At 6pm you will have a welcome meeting in the hotel.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Walk to Lake Schwarzensee (4-5hrs)
This morning you first take a ferry to St Wolfgang then set out on foot along the Sattel (saddle) walk to Lake Schwarzensee, where Madame Lore of the lake hut waits to treat you with local specialities. Continue down into the valley by a gorge and around the Bürglstein to the lake promenade at Strobl. The lakeshore is perfect for a relaxing break and perhaps a strudel. Afterwards, follow the lakeside trail back to the peninsula of Abersee (or take the boat). Overnight Lake Wolfgangsee. Distance: 15.5 km/9.5mi, +354m/1162ft and –354m/1162ft
Meals: B
Day 3
Cycle via Mondsee to Lake Attersee (55km34mi)
Spectacular views and breathtaking scenery make this an unforgettable day in the heart of Austria's Lake District. The cycle route takes you along Lake Wolfgangsee to the Mozart village of St Gilgen. Later you cross Lake Mondsee where at Mondsee you can visit the church where the wedding for the “Sound of Music” was filmed. The last stage is along the banks of Lake Mondsee (Moon Lake) to Lake Attersee, the largest of Salzkammergut's lakes. Overnight in Attergau. Distance: 55km/34mi cycle. Route: There is an ascent for about 2.5km/1.5mi or you can take the local train for about 10 minutes.
Day 4
Cycle to Lake Traunsee then Bad Ischl/Lake Traunsee (65km/40mi or 45km/28mi)
The cycle route today is gently undulating with some moderate climbs and descents. Along the way you will pass small villages and farmhouses as you head to Lake Traunsee. Enjoy the lovely lakeside town of Gmunden with its water castle. Afterwards follow the cycle trail along the lake until Ebensee, where you can take the train to Bad Ischl. To shorten the cycling, you can take the boat from Gmunden to Ebensee. Overnight Bad Ischl or Lake Traunsee. In Bad Ischl, take your time exploring this spa town, with its Emperor’s Villa and the delectable Zauner pastry shop. On Lake Traunsee, take a walk by the lake shore and enjoy the beautiful views. Distance: cycle 65km/40mi to Bad Ischl or cycle 45km/28mi + train to Bad Ischl. Route: One steeper ascent at the start (100m/328ft of altitude) and a small ascent between Lake Attersee and Lake Traunsee. Flat along Lake Traunsee to Bad Ischl.
Day 5
Bus to Gosausee and scenic lakes walk back to Bad Ischl/Lake Traunsee (4hrs)
A rest from cycling today. This morning you take the public bus from Bad Ischl to Gosausee, where your walking will start. It's a lovely walk to the three little Lakes Gosauseen. At the end of the valley an alpine hut invites you for a “Jause” – a typical Austrian lunch-break. Enjoy wonderful scenery with views to the Dachstein glacier. Return to Bad Ischl / Lake Traunsee by public bus. Distance 12.65km, +300m/984ft, -300m/984ft
Day 6
Train to Tauplitz, cycle to Bad Aussee then Bad Goisern or Hallstatt (45-55km/28-34mi)
Today with your bike you take the train to Tauplitz (included), where you will find a wide valley with mountain ranges on both sides. Enjoy cycling through meadows and alpine pastures. Depending on your fitness you can cycle over a little mountain pass to Lake Grundlsee, or follow the river cycle trail to Bad Aussee. The last part of the trail leads you along the river passing the nature reserve of Koppenvalley. Overnight Bad Goisern or Hallstatt. In Hallstatt we highly recommend visiting the salt mine/museum located above the town. *If the train is not running (ie due to railway works), you will cycle from Bad Ischl to Hallstatt.
Day 7
Loop walk along alpine trails on the flanks of Mt Krippenstein (3-8hrs)
Today's walk is in the World Heritage region around Hallstatt. Board the local bus or cycle to the cable car station in Obertraun (5km). Catch the cable car to the summit of Mt Krippenstein where you can jump off or if you prefer, continue to a station further along where you have the option to walk back up to the summit. After enjoying the wonderful views, catch the cable car down to the middle station to join a guided tour of the ice cave (included). Depending on your fitness you can choose from an easy round trip walk of 3 hours, up to a more demanding 8 hour hike. With the constant backdrop of Mt Dachstein, the highest in the region, the wonderful alpine vistas and viewpoints over the lakes far below are exhilarating. Overnight Hallstatt/Bad Goisern. Distance: 5-15km/3-9mi, +250m-1500m/820ft-4921ft and -250-1500m/820ft-4921ft. Choose from easy walking to alpine climbing!
Day 8
Ferry across Lake Hallstatt, cycle to Lake Wolfgangsee (35-45km/22-28mi)
With the ferry you cross Lake Hallstatt and continue along a dedicated cycle trail via the lakeshore and river to Bad Goisern, a charming alpine village set in the valley. Following the brine pipeline trail you come again to Bad Ischl, where you take the former Roman road to Lake Wolfgangsee. Continue along the lakeshore with wonderful views to St Wolfgang and the mountain. Overnight Lake Wolfgangsee. Distance: 35-45km/22-28mi
Day 9
Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast.
What's included
What's not included
The accommodation is chosen to reflect the charm of the region staying in a combination of 3 star hotels and guesthouses. All rooms with ensuite facilities. In Austria please note that a twin room is not always associated with having two separated beds. Quite often a twin bed has one or two mattresses on the same bedframe together with two separate duvets. Sometimes there might be two beds positioned together, but they cannot be separated because of constraints of the room.
Option to upgrade to carefully selected accommodation. Staying either 5 nights in 4 star and 3 nights in 3 star hotels if booked in Hallstatt, or 5 nights 4 star, 2 nights 3 star superior and 1 night 3 star hotel if we have to book accommodation in Bad Goisern due to availability. Located conveniently along the route allows for easy access to nearby services.
You will be provided with a 21 or 24 speed rental bike which is perfect for the terrain. You will also receive a helmet, pannier, lock, handlebar bag and repair kit. Please use the lock to secure your bike every time you leave it unattended. In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. A puncture repair kit is included in the equipment provided so you can fix the issue.
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedalling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Both men's and ladies frames available. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists.
Walking - While the paths are well defined and the gradient is not too difficult, the terrain is undulating. Cycling – Undulating cycle route on mainly dedicated cycle paths. There will be sections of road walking or cycling when entering and exiting towns and villages.
GRADE 3 - This is a self guided cycle and walk with daily walks between 3-8 hours and 30-55km/18.5-34mi per day cycling. WALKING - While the paths are well defined and the gradient is not too difficult, the terrain is undulating. The route is well marked except as noted in the directions provided – the map should be used in conjunction with the directions provided. CYCLING – Undulating cycle route on mainly dedicated cycle paths. A good level of fitness is required, although most stages may be shortened through the use of public transport. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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