Alpe Adria Cycle Path - Salzburg to Grado in Comfort

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

The trip concludes after breakfast.