Alpe-Adria Cycle Path – Salzburg to Grado

After making your own way to the birthplace of Mozart, welcome yourself in this cultural city by wandering round the backstreets and traditional squares; why not stop at one of the famous coffee shops for a taste of Austrian specialities? It would be impossible to not have an amazing cultural experience in this city.

After a night’s stay in Salzburg, it’s time to jump on the peddles and head southward. Cycle along shady-wetland paths along the river Salzach until you get to Hallein, which was once a affluent Celtic town thanks to the salt-mining industry. This perhaps lesser-known town does not disappoint, especially if you are a fan of historical town centres, winding alleyways, and extravagant house fronts. As you head on to St. Johann, you pass a vibrant waterfall and the small market town of Golling all on sturdy bike paths. Once you’ve reached your destination marvel at the heights of the towers of the Pongau cathedral.

The first place to note on today’s journey is Schwarzach, after which you will leave the banks of the Salzach River; your journey will now head along the incredibly scenic Gastein Valley. Passing through Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein you will eventually get to the famous spa and ski resort of Bad Gastein, which finds itself at the bottom of the Hohen Tauern-mountain chain, where you can see a mixture of natural beauty and wonderful architecture. A true gem of the area is the Gasteiner Waterfall, which has been inspiration for artists and poets in years gone by. Push on just a short distance to Böckstein, where you’ll take a 10-minute train ride via the “Tauernschleuse” to Mallnitz which is on the other side of the Alps. Complete the rest of your journey on your bike to your destination of Mölltal Valley.

Kick off the day along the River Möll passing through gorgeous alpine scenery. Enter the Drautal Valley in the village of Möllbrücke and head for what is known as “the sunny south of Austria”. Enjoy effortless downhill paths by the river Drau. Take a stop in Spittal where some history awaits you in the “Porcia”, a Renaissance palace (this has been called the most beautiful renaissance building north of the Alps). Continue on a short distance further to Villach, where you can find multi-coloured buildings and quaint local cafes and pubs.

Today it’s time to say hello to country number 2, Italy! You descend into Tarvis by train. In Italy your cycle will be blessed with well-built cycle paths, so you can head through the Kanaltal Valley pleasantly. On this route you will also be able to enjoy the stunning landscape of the Friulian alpine region; here you can see dense forests and untouched nature scenes. Round off the day in a beautiful village at the bottom of the Julian alps.

Leaving the Kanaltal Valley on the south side you’ll see some truly special villages in the Friulian-Julian-Veneto. The highlight of the village of Gemona del Friuli is the impressive cathedral Santa Maria Assunta, which is truly breath-taking. As you head on to Udine you will have your first dose of vineyards and vines of the trip. Arrive in your stay for the night and bask in the Italian dream, drinking coffee on the Piazza or strolling down alleyways while enjoying the stunning historical architecture.

You are now on the home stretch, along which you will see some fantastic sights. Cycle past wild-growing plants and little waterways in the direction of the Gulf of Venice. You will pass by the Roman city of Aquileia, also known as the “second Rome”, we highly recommend taking a break here before reading your final destination of the trip. Your route ends in Grado, this historical fishing town offers a long sandy beach, accompanied by a traditional harbour and thin walkways dotted with special Italian restaurants.

Alternative 10 days / 9 nights – Please contact our team for prices on this.