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The Alpe Adria Cycle Way is one of Europe’s most spectacular long-distance cycling routes, stretching from the alpine city of Salzburg to the sun-kissed shores of Grado on Italy’s Adriatic coast. Over seven rewarding days in the saddle, you’ll ride through ever-changing landscapes – from Austria’s glacier-fed rivers and dramatic alpine passes to Italy’s rolling hills and Mediterranean villages. Stay in comfort each night at mostly 4-star hotels, many with wellness centres where you can unwind after a day on the bike. This journey is all about enjoying the rhythm of the ride: stopping for local delicacies, wandering cobbled town centres, and soaking in the cultural shift as the Germanic alpine scenery gives way to Italian charm. With the Adriatic Sea as your final destination, you’ll finish your trip with a sense of achievement – and maybe a celebratory gelato by the water.
More info about grading system
21kg of CO2-e PP per day
(165kg 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, cross the Lueg pass to St Johan (65km/40.5mi)
The first stage today 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. 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.
Meals: B
Day 3
Follow the Gasteiner Ache to Bad Gastein (40km/25mi)
Leaving the Salzach River behind near Schwarzach, you follow the Gasteiner Ache, a tributary of the Salzach River) as it winds through the wild and picturesque Gastein Valley. Ride through the charming villages of Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein en route to the famed spa and ski town of Bad Gastein, nestled at the base of the mighty Hohe Tauern mountains. Known for its unique blend of natural beauty and Belle Époque architecture, the town is home to the striking Gasteiner Waterfall – a dramatic cascade at the heart of the village that has long inspired poets and painters alike.
Day 4
Train through the Tauern Tunnel then cycle to Spittal (50km/31mi + train)
In the morning it is only a short distance to Böckstein, where a 10 minute train ride takes you through the ”Tauernschleuse” to the other side of the Alps in Mallnitz. Back you your bike you follow 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. Ovenight Spittal
Day 5
Cycle along the Drau River to Villach (40km/25mi)
Today’s ride is a gentle downhill cruise along the scenic Drau River, making for an easy and enjoyable journey. About halfway, consider stopping in the quaint market town of Paternion, known for its elegant churches and historic palaces. From there, it’s a short ride to Villach, where you’ll be welcomed by a lively old town, a distinctly southern flair, and plenty of inviting cafés and local eateries to unwind and soak up the atmosphere.
Day 6
Cross into Italy and pedal to Tarvisio (35km/22mi)
Following the Gail River, you’ll pedal out of Austria and soon cross into Italy – a smooth transition between cultures that’s felt as much in the landscape as in the language. This corner of Europe, where Austria, Slovenia and Italy meet, is known as the Canal Valley. At its heart lies Tarvisio, a charming alpine town where German, Romance and Slavic cultures have coexisted for centuries. It’s a fascinating blend of traditions, architecture and cuisine – a perfect place to pause and take it all in. The Julian Alps rise to the east and southeast of the town, forming part of the mountainous backdrop that defines this culturally rich and geographically striking area.
Day 7
Cycle to the charming town of Udine (60km/37.5mi + train)
The ride today follows a well-maintained cycle path as you glide gently downhill through the scenic Val Canale. Take your time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Friulian Alps – a peaceful landscape of thick forests, alpine meadows, and quiet villages nestled at the base of the Julian Alps. Your cycling stage ends in one of these charming foothill towns, where you’ll board a local train and continue to the vibrant city of Udine. Once there, embrace the dolce vita – sip an espresso in a sunny piazza, wander the narrow lanes, and admire the graceful architecture of the late Gothic and Renaissance eras.
Day 8
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 9
Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast.
What's included
What's not included
Throughout your journey from Salzburg to Grado, you'll stay in comfortable, mostly 4-star accommodation that blends character, charm and convenience. From stylish city hotels and lovingly restored historic buildings to cosy alpine lodges and elegant seaside villas, each property has been selected for its unique atmosphere and welcoming hospitality. Many feature wellness areas with saunas, pools or rooftop terraces—perfect for unwinding after a day on the bike. Expect modern comforts, locally inspired design, and a warm European welcome at every stop.
In Austria, a "twin room" doesn’t always mean two separate beds. Often, it refers to a shared bedframe with one or two mattresses and individual duvets. In some cases, two beds may be placed side by side but can’t be moved apart due to room layout. For friends travelling together, this setup may feel a bit too close for comfort. If full bed separation is important, we recommend requesting a single room (a supplement applies).
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 35-65km/ 22-41 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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