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The Alpe Adria Cycle Way is a visually dramatic long-distance cycling route that stretches from Salzburg, Austria, to Grado on the Adriatic coast in Italy, covering approximately 415 kilometers. Experience this iconic cycle route at a relaxed pace, taking in the ever-changing landscapes from the Austrian Alps to the sparkling Adriatic Sea. This journey is all about slowing down and enjoying the ride—cycling alongside glacial rivers, past roaring waterfalls, and through charming medieval towns steeped in history. As you cross into Italy, the scenery softens, the pace eases, and the Mediterranean influence comes to life in the food, culture, and welcoming atmosphere. With plenty of time to pause, explore, and indulge in regional specialties, this is a ride that rewards the senses at every turn. And at the journey’s end? The turquoise waters of the Adriatic, the perfect place to reflect on an unforgettable adventure.
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22kg of CO2-e PP per day
(202kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Salzburg
Make your way to Salzburg, the vibrant city of music, culture, and history. Wander through its charming alleyways and lively squares, where every turn reveals a story from the past. Take time to soak up the atmosphere in one of its traditional cafés, indulging in classic Austrian treats. From Mozart’s legacy to its stunning baroque architecture, Salzburg is the perfect place to begin your journey.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Cycle along the Salzach River to Golling (30km/19mi)
The first stage of the Alpe Adria Cycle Path from Salzburg is a gentle introduction to the journey ahead, blending culture with nature. Leaving behind Salzburg’s baroque charm, the route follows the Salzach River, winding through picturesque meadows and traditional villages. Along the way, you'll pass Hallein, known for its ancient salt mines and renowned Celtic Museum and passing the Gollinger waterfall before reaching Golling. This pretty market town is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Tennen Mountains.
Meals: B
Day 3
Cross over the Lueg pass enroute to St Johann (35km/22mi)
Leaving Golling, the ride begins with a steady climb to the top of Lueg Pass (552m), where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Tennengebirge Mountains. From here, the landscape becomes more dramatic as the Salzach River carves its way through the deep, echoing gorge of the Salzachöfen. The towering Hohenwerfen Castle comes into view, a striking medieval fortress standing guard over the valley. As you continue, the twin spires of St. Johann’s Pongau Cathedral rise ahead, marking your arrival in this charming alpine town.
Day 4
Cycle to Böckstein and train through the Tauern Tunnel to the Mölltal Valley (60km/37.5mi plus train)
After leaving Schwarzach, you say goodbye to the Salzach River and follow the Gasteiner Ache into the breathtaking Gastein Valley. Passing through Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein, the route leads to the famous spa town of Bad Gastein, nestled at the foot of the Hohen Tauern Mountains. With its elegant Belle Époque architecture and the dramatic Gastein Waterfall at its heart, the town has long inspired artists and writers. A short ride takes you to Böckstein, where a quick 10-minute train journey through the Tauern Tunnel delivers you to Mallnitz on the southern side of the Alps. Back on two wheels, enjoy a thrilling descent into the Mölltal Valley, where your day’s ride comes to a rewarding finish.
Day 5
Cycle to Spittal through the Drautal Valley (30km/19mi)
Today’s ride follows the river through stunning alpine landscapes, leading you into the Drautal Valley at Möllbrücke, the gateway to Austria’s sunny south. From here, it’s a relaxed cycle to Spittal an der Drau, a town with a rich history as a key crossroads for pilgrims in the Middle Ages. Its vibrant past is still reflected in its charming streets and cultural landmarks, making it a great place to explore at the end of your day's ride.
Day 6
Continue along the Drau river to Villach (40km/25mi)
Enjoy a gentle descent along the Drau River, making for a relaxed and scenic ride. Along the way, take a break in the charming market town of Paternion, where historic churches and elegant palaces offer a glimpse into the region’s past. From here, it’s just a little more pedalling before you arrive in Villach, a lively town with a charming old centre and plenty of inviting cafés and restaurants—perfect for unwinding after a great day on the bike.
Day 7
Cross into Italy by train and continue by bike to Gemona or surrounds (60-70km/375.-44mi + train)
This morning you ascend by train into Italy to arrive in Tarvisio. In Italy the cycle paths are also well-developed allowing you to cycle leisurely downhill through the Val Canale-valley. As you pedal, marvel at the beauty of the Friulian alpine region with its intact, unspoilt nature and extensive forests. Your day finishes in one of the picturesque villages located in the foothills of the Julian Alps.
Day 8
Cycle to the charming town of Udine (55km/34mi)
As you leave the Val Canale Valley, you arrive in Gemona del Friuli, one of the most beautiful historic towns in the Friulian-Julian region. Its stunning centre is dominated by the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, an architectural gem that is sure to impress. Continuing south towards Udine, the landscape begins to change, with the first vineyards appearing along the cycle route. Once in town, immerse yourself in the dolce vita—sip a coffee on the lively piazza, stroll through charming alleyways, and admire the elegant Gothic and Renaissance architecture that gives Udine its unique character.
Day 9
Last stage to the Adriatic and the coastal resort town of Grado (55km/34mi)
As you near the Gulf of Venice, the landscape shifts to wetlands and canals, creating a peaceful ride towards the coast. A stop in Aquileia, once a major Roman city known as the "Second Rome," is well worth it to explore its rich history. Your journey ends in Grado, a historic fishing town and popular Adriatic beach resort. With its sandy beaches, scenic harbor, and charming alleyways lined with restaurants, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the coastal atmosphere and toast your epic cycle journey.
Day 10
Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast.
What's included
What's not included
A mix of 3 & 4 star hotels with ensuite facilities.
In Austria a twin room is not always associated with having two beds. Quite often a twin bed has one or two mattresses on the same bedframe but with two separate duvets. Sometimes there might be two beds positioned together, but they cannot be separated because of constraints of the room.
During the trip you will be provided with a 21 speed bike with derailleur gears and free wheel. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a handlebar bag, repair kit and lock. Please be aware that on some tours only unisex bikes are available. Please advise us of your preference when booking. 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. Helmets are mandatory on all bike tours. You can either purchase one, must be pre-booked or bring your own well-fitted helmet.
This is a sportier bike with a diamond frame with many upgraded parts of the bike, from the saddle to the brakes and gears. On request, supplement applies.
An electric bike is available on request, supplement applies.
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. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 12 years and a minimum height requirement is 148cm / 4ft10in.
Most of the route follows well-developed cycle paths and quiet secondary roads. You will encounter traffic entering and exiting cities, towns & villages.
GRADE 3 -Daily distances of between 30-60km/ 19-38 miles over undulating terrain, the most challenging section between St. Johann and the Gasteiner-valley can also be completed and bypassed by train. The Alpe Adria Cycle Way is not entirely traffic-free, but it does feature long sections of dedicated cycle paths—especially in Austria—while in Italy, it follows a mix of quiet country roads and repurposed railway tracks. Key Route Features: * Austria (Salzburg to Villach): Mostly on dedicated cycle paths, particularly along rivers and valleys. This section is well-maintained and largely free from motor traffic. * Austria-Italy Border (Tarvisio area): One of the highlights is the railway-turned-cycle path, offering a smooth and scenic ride through tunnels and viaducts. * Italy (Tarvisio to Grado): A mix of dedicated cycle paths and quiet roads, with some sections on shared roads, particularly near towns. To prepare for your cycle, we recommend cycling in light traffic in the lead up to your trip with some hills. An E bike can be requested (supplement applies) and if used can make the trip easier on the legs, although pedalling is still required. Also you need to be a competent cyclist to ride an E bike as they are heavier and faster than regular bikes.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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