24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Duration
9 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 8 nights inss, guesthouses and hotels
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 8 Breakfasts

Price

$1550USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: VTG

Trip highlights


  • Exploring UNESCO World Heritage cities - Graz and Baden near Vienna
  • Experiencing the traditional wine-growing areas in the Vienna Basin
  • Cycling through the Styrian thermal and volcanic land with numerous spas and health resorts
  • Discovering the towns along the way such as Wiener Neustadt, Hartberg, Fürstenfeld and Feldbach
  • Tasting regional specialties such as pumpkin seed oil and Uhudler wine

Embark on a cycle odyssey from the enchanting city of Vienna to the green heart of Austria and the region of Styria. The carefully devised route takes you through hilly terrains and charming villages enveloped by lush meadows, orchards and vineyards. As the landscape unfolds, be ready for a delightful shift – from green forest slopes to picturesque southern Styria. Along the route, you'll encounter hidden thermal spas and rejuvenating health resorts and the Vienna Basin showcasing a centuries-old wine industry. The Styrian thermal spa and volcano region is the sunniest in Austria which is perhaps the reason for the prolific vineyards and the regional specialties such as Uhudler, a famous local wine and pumpkin seed oil. Throughout your journey, experience the warm embrace of local hospitality and indulge in the rich culinary traditions. Every turn of the pedal reveals a new chapter in Austria's captivating tapestry of history, culture, and culinary wonders. Get ready to savor the journey from Vienna to Graz – a celebration of the senses and a feast for the soul.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Make your own way to Vienna and the hotel, where you will receive your travel documents. The remainder of the day is free to explore. You can enjoy a stroll through the imperial city or visit a typical Heurigen (rustic wine taverns) to try some local food and goodies - there are lots of options in the 'City of Waltz'.

Meals:  Nil

The city of Vienna is left behind as you pedal into the Vienna basin, home to traditional vineyards and interesting sights such as the visually stunning Laxenburg Castle with its parklike grounds. For wine lovers, the region is a jewel. At Freigut Thallern, one of Austria's oldest and most traditional wineries, which has been growing grapes since 1141, you can taste the fine wines of this region. Continue to the wine growing village of Gumpoldskirchen and your overnight accommodation.

Meals:  B

Vineyards line the bike path until you reach the first highlight of the day, the spa city of Baden. With its spas and thermal springs, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the distance, you can already see the Viennese Alps. Wiener Neustadt is considered a lively hub of this region with a great history. The city was built with ransom money for the English King Richard the Lionheart, who was held in Dürnstein. There are many things to see here. Stroll through the old town and enjoy the pubs and shopping opportunities, visit the gothic cathedral or wander around the 13th Century Theresian Military Academy, a four-towered castle.

Meals:  B

The cycle route today takes you through the Buckelige Welt and the Wechselregion, a favourite recreational area for the Viennese. Cycle past rolling hills, lush forests and fragrant meadows and through traditional villages where time seems to stand still. Numerous castles and picturesque churches tell stories of times gone by. The cycle ends at the charming mountain village of Mönichkirchen am Wechsel, a climatic high-altitude health town with numerous hiking opportunities. As the last 10 km of the day’s stage have considerable inclines, the accompanying vehicle can be used as a transfer for this part.

Meals:  B

From this section on, you will experience Styria, the green heart of Austria, characterised by rolling hills, alpine pasture views and lush green landscapes. The people of the region are known for their warm hospitality. Feel the freedom in nature and spoil your palate with typical Styrian specialties. The Brettljause and pumpkin seed oil are omnipresent. Hartberg captivates with its charming old town and inviting cafes.

Meals:  B

The Styrian thermal spa and volcano region is a delight to cycle through. During the cycle route you pass Numerous spas. In addition to the thermal springs, this specific spa and volcano region is also known for its world-class wines. Typical for the region are the rosé wine "Schilcher" as well as Buschenschänke, traditional restaurants where local specialties are offered.

Meals:  B

Starting from Fürstenfeld "the capital of the thermal region" you will experience another day of a combination of cycling and relaxation in the thermal and volcanic region. The route leads along quiet country roads and bike paths through rolling hills, fragrant orchards and green meadows. One highlight is Riegersburg Castle, which sits majestically on a volcanic cone and offers breathtaking views of the region. The "Zotter" chocolate manufactory, known throughout Austria, entices visitors with sweet temptations. In Feldbach, a lively city with a charming city center awaits you.

Meals:  B

Following the river Raab you cycle at a leisurely pace through river meadows, green pastures and small villages. The town of Gleisdorf offers rest stops to explore the old town before you reach the healing climate spa town of Laßnitzhöhe. Take deep, soothing breaths and prepare for the final highlight of the tour. Graz, the capital of Styria, will enchant you from the start. The imposing Schlossberg and the historic old town are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Meals:  B,D

Enjoy the day in Graz. If you wish, you can take the train back to Vienna. Direct trains to Vienna leave every hour taking about 2.5 hours.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 8 breakfasts, 1 dinner (Graz). Continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, occasionally eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner will consist of a main course and one alcoholic or non acoholic drink
  • 8 nights in typical comfortable inns and guesthouses (4 star hotel in Vienna and Graz) with ensuite facilities on a twin share basis (option to upgrade to Category A, 4 star hotels - surcharge applies)
  • Accompanying vehicle during the trip incl. luggage transport Vienna - Graz (max. 2 pieces of luggage (max. 20 kg / piece) with a total of max. 30 kg / person)
  • handlebar bag with with information material and Navigational app (also available as GPS Tracks file)
  • One Brettljause on day 6 (meat and cheese plate voucher EUR15) or beverage in a Buschenschank (wine growers tavern)
  • wine tasting at the Freigut Thallern in Gumpoldskirchen
  • ticket for the Schlossbergbahn (funicular railway) in Graz
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Vienna and from Graz
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks - dinner option available - supplement applies
  • Helmet - can be purchased and provided locally (must be pre-booked & pre-paid)
  • Travel insurance
  • Guide - this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Rental bike insurance - covers liability in case of loss or damage to the rental bike (when properly used and secured). Excluded are lost keys, batteries and chargers of e-bikes, as well as damage due to intent or gross negligence.

Bike information


Grading

moderate  

Daily cycling distances range from 30-64km / 18.6-40mi. The route is hilly and includes some challenging climbs. Half of the tour is along bike paths that are separated from road traffic. Otherwise, the bike path runs on country roads, secondary roads or forest roads. Increased traffic is to be expected in towns and cities. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. It is considered suitable for cyclists with a good level of fitness including older children. For parents pulling trailers or trail-a-bikes please be aware that the cycling effort required is increased depending on the weight of the children. We recommend e-bikes for this trip unless you have good cycling fitness. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.


Departure dates


Notes

DN3
.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1550USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Electric Bike SupplementUSD$140
  • Single SupplementUSD$240
  • Solo Traveller SupplementUSD$240
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


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Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

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With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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