Innsbruck to Salzburg
This special European bike tour connects two of Austria’s best known cities, in a way which is sure to take your breath away.
With the steep, and towering North Chain of the Karwendel mountains (the largest mountain range of the Northern Limestone Alps) on one side, you can ride comfortably along the River Inn’s cycle path. You will then head inland, towards the idyllic Zillertal (Ziller Valley) where you will cross the Gerlos Pass by bus transfer. Upon arrival in the state of Salzburg, you can admire Europe’s biggest waterfall, before jumpping back on your bike for a leisurely ride along the scenic and purpose-built cycle tour.
The hugely popular Tauern cycle path will guide you along the River Salzach to Lake Zell, where you will see the snow-capped Kitzsteinhorn mountain reflected in the crystal water. Be prepared for a sprint on your bike, as you then follow the river Saalach, along its valley, until you arrive in world-famous Salzburg.
What are you waiting for? Discover Tyrol’s tradition and Salzburg’s spectacular culture, on this unforgettable cycle tour.
Itinerary
Today rental bikes will be distributed for the week. There will also be a full tour briefing. In Innsbruck tourists can see the world famous Bergisel Ski Jump and the Golden Roof.
On your first ride, you will head to Wattens. The towering North Chain of the Karwendel mountains will be at your side, as you ride on a pleasant and flat cycle path. You will pass through the historic and UNESCO designated town of Hall with its famous Mint tower. You can also visit the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, an enchanting experience that offers an insight into the world famous crystal manufacturers. After, you will cycle along the Inn cycle path past Schwaz, where there is a silver mine. You will remain on this path until you reach the cycling village of Strass.
Today you can enjoy an easy-going ride along the Zillertal bike path until you get to Zell, or even a bit further along to the well-known ski resort of Mayrhofen. On this route, you can enjoy an amazing view of the Zillertal main ridge, with its highest peaks over 3000m high. There will be a bus transfer, in the early afternoon, to Krimml over the Gerlospass. While on this journey, you can enjoy a view of Europe’s highest waterfall, which you will view again later, by foot, on a high path.
Today you will pass through the Hohe Tauern national park and Upper Pinzgau. While you ride, you can enjoy the view of snow-capped mountains. The scenery will be enchanting; alternating between lush green meadows and small, traditional villages. Once you arrive into Kaprun, you can visit the Kaprun high mountain reservoirs.
We highly recommend that you take the time for a refreshing swim in Lake Zell today. The sporty cyclists among you will also have the chance to go for an extra spin. You will arrive quickly into Saalfelden, via Maria Alm, where there is a famous pilgrimage church. This is a good place for you to stop and enjoy your lunch. Further highlights on your way to Lofer include the Seisenbergklamm (gorge) and the Lamprechtshöhle (caves) near Weißbach.
Your last day of cycling today will lead you through the tranquil Saalach valley. You will be captivated by the bavarian flair of Bad Reichenhall. From there, there is only a little further to go, before you arrive in the Mozart City of Salzburg. The cultural highlights of the city are sure to impress. You should have enough time to visit Mozart’s birth house, and enjoy a stroll around the ‘Old Town’.
Route overview
Difficulty: Leisurely
You prefer to cycle along flat, well-established cycle paths, which have lots of good places to stop on. You cycle simply bring a smile to your face. You don’t actually get your bike out the garage much at home, but you have the urge to give cycling holiday a go!
This Innsbruck tour is predominantly on cycle paths, with occasional slight hills. Some riding on natural trails and very brief sections on small side roads.
Total distance cycled: 255 km
Route Map (for guidance only):
Cycling in Salzburg routes may be subject to change or alteration. All route notes, maps and day-by-day information will be given to you upon arrival at the first hotel or at the welcome meeting. GPS/GPX files are available for most of our Austrian cycling holidays we offer. Please ask us for details.
What’s included
- Accommodation in 3/4 star hotels
- Standard Bike Hire
- Breakfast buffet
- Luggage transfers whilst in Austria
- Welcome briefing
- Transfer by bus from Zell am Ziller to Krimml incl. your bike
- Telephone service hotline
- Signposted route
- Detailed travel documents (route maps/descriptions, local attractions, important telephone numbers)
Not included
- Flights to/from the start and finish of you Innsbruck cycling holidays
- Evening meals whilst in Austria (unless stated)
- Local daily taxes (payable at the hotel)
- Helmets
- Water bottles
- Travel insurance
- Transfers (unless stated)
- Bike Hire available as an optional extra (rental bike insurance included in hire price)
Check Availability
We have put a calendar of events together that will provide you with some inspiration of what you can expect on your holiday, and when the best time to jet off is. Now’s your chance to travel further than you can by foot and be part of a memorable and exciting two-wheel journey with us.