Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Salzburg-Villach

Arrive individually in the enchanting Mozart town of Salzburg. Explore its charming winding alleyways and squares, perfect for leisurely strolls. Don't miss the opportunity to savour Austrian delicacies at a traditional café. Immerse yourself in culture and history with every step you take.

Embark on your bike tour from Salzburg, pedaling through the shaded Salzach lowlands along the riverside. Your journey takes you to Hallein, a city once enriched by salt excavation, making it a thriving Celtic hub in the past. One of the highlights is the renowned Celtic museum. Continuing along the river, you'll encounter the stunning waterfall, the picturesque market square, and the historic 13th-century fortress in Golling.

As you travel from Golling to Pass Lueg, revel in the breathtaking vistas of the majestic mountain range. The subtle incline will hardly be noticeable. The mountains draw nearer, and the sound of rushing water grows louder. Traverse the impressive "Salzach-Öfen," a grand canyon carved by the river. At the base of Mount Hochkönig, you'll arrive in Werfen. Before continuing to Bischofshofen, enjoy a final glimpse of Hohenwerfen Fortress. A few kilometres further, you'll reach St. Johann. The unmistakable towers of the Pongau Cathedral rise like double mountain peaks.

Soon after leaving Schwarzach, you'll bid farewell to the Salzach and follow the course of the Gasteiner Ache through the wild and romantic Gastein Valley. Pedal through Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein to reach the renowned spa and winter sports haven of Bad Gastein, nestled at the foot of the Hohe Tauern.

This area is a treasure trove of natural wonders and architectural marvels. A short distance away lies Böckstein, where you can catch a Tauernschleuse train to Mallnitz on the other side of the Alps in just 10 minutes (at a self-paid cost of around €5 per person). After the train ride, take the reins again and enjoy an exhilarating downhill ride to your Mölltal hotel.

Set out along the banks of the Möll River and pedal through a spectacular mountain landscape. As you reach Möllbrücke, you'll enter the Drautal Valley, basking in the sunny ambiance of Austria's southern region. Enjoy a leisurely pedal over the final kilometres to reach Spittal an der Drau. During the Middle Ages, this city played a vital role as a junction for pilgrims, contributing to its prosperity.

Savor the delights of this route as it gently descends along the Drau River. Be sure to plan a stop in Paternion, where you'll find captivating churches and palaces. In a short distance, you'll arrive in Villach, a charming old city exuding southern flair, complete with inviting pubs and restaurants.

After breakfast, your journey comes to an end. Or will you continue to enjoy the sun in Villach for a few more days?