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Alpe Adria Cycle Route: Salzburg to Grado

Ride the Alpe Adria Cycle Path to the Adriatic Sea

This cycling tour begins in the picturesque festival city of Salzburg. After paying homage to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, you'll embark on a breathtaking journey from the Alps to the sea. What makes this cycling adventure truly unique is the perfect blend of cultural highlights, awe-inspiring natural landscapes, and enchanting small towns. At its core, this tour is all about enjoying the moment. After all, what would a cycling tour be without indulging in culinary delights along the way? Intrigued? Hop on your saddle and set your course southward.

The Alpe Adria Cycle Path, often referred to as the Alpe-Adria Radweg is a renowned long-distance cycling route that covers approximately 410 kilometres (255 miles) in length. It connects three stunning regions, starting in Salzburg, Austria, and concluding in Grado, Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. Along the way, cyclists traverse diverse terrains, from the majestic Austrian Alps to the tranquil shores of the Adriatic. This route offers not only a scenic journey but also a rich cultural experience, with opportunities to explore historic towns, sample local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the regions you pass through.

Details of the cycle tour from Salzburg to Grado

After drinking a leisurely drink in Salzburg's historic old town, your cycling journey takes you onward to St. Johann im Pongau. As you pedal through this enchanting landscape, you'll be treated to breathtaking natural scenery. Your ride continues, filled with pleasure, as you venture into the picturesque Carinthian countryside.

Throughout your journey through the Austrian countryside, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in unspoiled customs, relish delectable cuisine, and bask in the warmth of local hospitality. With each pedal stroke, you draw closer to your ultimate destination, Italy. Upon reaching Grado, an overwhelming sense of joy will wash over you.

Grado beckons with its irresistible Italian charm, a charming old town, and a heartwarming atmosphere. The allure of La Dolce Vita is palpable, inviting you to fully enjoy the good life. It's a moment for indulgence and celebration!

Book this holiday: Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Salzburg to Grado

Highlights of the Alpe Adria Cycle Path from Salzburg to Grado

  • Renaissance Porcia Castle: Your stopover in Spittal an der Drau is a cultural delight. For aficionados of the Renaissance, this town is a true gem. Here, you can explore the most exquisite Renaissance structure in the northern Alps - Porcia Castle.

  • Grado: As you reach this charming fishing town at the conclusion of your journey, you'll find the perfect place to unwind. The restaurants tucked away in the winding alleys of the old town are ready to pamper your taste buds with delectable pizza, pasta, and fine wines. It's a delightful culinary experience!

  • Scenic route: The Alpe Adria Cycle Tour offers a breathtaking journey through diverse landscapes, from the Austrian Alps to the Adriatic Sea, showcasing stunning natural beauty.

  • Cultural exploration: Travelers can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the regions along the route, including historic towns and customs.

  • Culinary delights: The tour provides opportunities to enjoy the local cuisine, from Austrian specialities to Italian delicacies, ensuring a gastronomic adventure.

  • Varied terrain: Cyclists will encounter a mix of terrains, from mountainous paths in the Alps to flat coastal roads, providing an exciting challenge for all skill levels.

  • Well-maintained paths: The cycle paths are well-maintained, making the journey safe and comfortable for riders.

Interesting facts about the cycle tour from the city of Mozart to the Italian coast

Over eight days, you will traverse approximately 375 kilometres along meticulously maintained cycle paths. With daily stages ranging from 55 to 75 kilometres, there's ample time for relaxation and pure enjoyment. Feeling the need for a breather?

During two of the longer stretches, you can opt for a well-deserved rest by hopping on the train, allowing your body to recharge and rejuvenate for the journey ahead.

Book this holiday: Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Salzburg to Grado

Tour information
Medium
  • 8 Days / 7 Nights
  • Self-Guided
  • Luggage transfers included
  • Total cycling distance: approx. 365 km
Steven Rittey
Steven Rittey
+44 1706 618 155 Contact
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Itinerary

Embarking on an individual journey to the festival, Mozart, and the cultural city of Salzburg, you'll discover winding alleys and squares that invite you to stroll, as well as dreamy cafes where you can enjoy genuine Austrian coffee specialities. Here, you'll immerse yourself in culture and history at every turn.

 

Departing from Salzburg, head south as you cycle through shaded meadows alongside the Salzach River, leading to Hallein, a Celtic town historically known for its wealth derived from salt mining. Hallein captivates with its romantic old town, replete with narrow alleys, charming archways, and houses adorned with magnificent facades.

Continuing your journey, you'll pass the rushing waterfall of Golling and continue along the meticulously maintained cycle path, ultimately arriving in St. Johann. It's impossible to miss the unmistakable twin peaks of the Pongau Cathedral, rising gracefully into the sky.

Shortly after reaching Schwarzach, you bid adieu to the Salzach River, as from this point onward, the Gasteiner Ache River accompanies you on your journey through the wild and romantic Gastein Valley. You'll pass through Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein, making your way to the renowned spa and winter sports haven of Bad Gastein, nestled at the base of the Hohe Tauern mountains.

This charming town offers an array of natural, historical, and architectural wonders, with its standout attraction being the Gastein Waterfall, situated at the heart of the town, a subject of inspiration for many painters and poets over the years.

Now, it's just a stone's throw away from Böckstein, where you can catch a train on the Tauernschleuse, which will swiftly transport you to the other side of the Alps, to Mallnitz, in a mere 10 minutes. Once you're back in the saddle, enjoy the invigorating descent as you make your way to your hotel in Mölltal.

Today, your journey takes you along the River Möll, meandering through awe-inspiring high mountain landscapes.

Upon reaching the village of Möllbrücke, you'll enter the Drau valley, marking the beginning of Austria's sunny south. Almost effortlessly, your bike glides downhill alongside the gentle flow of the Drau River. In Spittal, a visit to the Renaissance castle Porcia is a must – often referred to as the "most beautiful Renaissance building north of the Alps."

A few more pedal strokes, and you'll arrive in Villach, where the heart of the town beats in its charming old quarter, exuding southern charm, and offering cosy "Beisln" and restaurants for you to enjoy.

To conquer the ascent to Tarvis, you have the option to take a train, easing your journey. Once in Italy, the cycling path is exceptionally well-maintained, providing a comfortable downhill ride through the Canal Valley. From your saddle, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Friulian Alpine region, featuring pristine, untouched nature and expansive forests.

Your overnight stay is set in one of the charming villages nestled at the base of the Julian Alps, providing a picturesque and serene accommodation option.

 

Located at the southern end of the Canal Valley, you'll discover one of the most stunning historic towns in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Gemona del Friuli is graced by the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a structure that dominates the town's skyline and is sure to leave you inspired.

As you continue your journey towards Udine, you'll start to notice the first vineyards lining the cycle route. Upon reaching Udine, you can fully embrace the "dolce vita" lifestyle, either by enjoying a coffee in the charming "piazza" or by strolling through the winding alleys. Be sure to admire the late Gothic and Renaissance buildings that contribute to Udine's unique architectural heritage.

 

As you pedal along, a warm Scirocco breeze gently caresses your senses. You'll journey through expansive reed landscapes alongside small water channels, all leading you toward the Gulf of Venice. Before you reach your final destination, make sure to include a stop in the Roman city of Aquileia, often referred to as the "Second Rome."

Your ultimate destination is the historic fishing town of Grado, one of the most beloved seaside resorts along the Adriatic. Grado is renowned not only for its extensive sandy beach but also for its historic harbour and charming narrow alleys adorned with cosy restaurants, all brimming with an unmistakable Italian flair.

Departure from Grado or spend extra nights in Grado or head to Trieste for extra nights on the Adriatic coast.

Route information

Throughout the journey, you'll primarily ride along well-maintained cycle paths and peaceful side roads. There are only a few segments where you'll encounter heavier traffic or unpaved paths. On the whole, the route is gently undulating, with the most demanding section between St. Johann and the Gastein Valley offering the option to take a train for ease.

Prices and dates

Prices are per person in GBP and exclude flights. All bookings are ABTA-protected.

Price calculation and check availability: Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Salzburg to Grado

Place of arrival: Salzburg
  Season 1
27.04.2024 - 10.05.2024
28.09.2024 - 05.10.2024

Daily
Season 2
11.05.2024 - 24.05.2024
07.09.2024 - 27.09.2024

Daily
Season 3
25.05.2024 - 06.09.2024

Daily
Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Salzburg - Grado, AT-AARSG-08X
Base price
1,049.00
1,169.00
1,229.00
Single room surcharge 339.00 339.00 339.00

Hotel information: 3*** and 4**** hotels

Season 1
Apr 27, 2024 - May 10, 2024
Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 5, 2024
Daily
Season 2
May 11, 2024 - May 24, 2024
Sep 7, 2024 - Sep 27, 2024
Daily
Season 3
May 25, 2024 - Sep 6, 2024
Daily
Alpe Adria Cycle Path: Salzburg - Grado, AT-AARSG-08X
Base price
Single room surcharge
1,049.00
339.00
1,169.00
339.00
1,229.00
339.00

Hotel information: 3*** and 4**** hotels

Season 1
Apr 27, 2024 - May 10, 2024
Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 5, 2024
Season 2
May 11, 2024 - May 24, 2024
Sep 7, 2024 - Sep 27, 2024
Season 3
May 25, 2024 - Sep 6, 2024
Salzburg
Double room p. P.
Single room surcharge
Grado
Double room p. P.
Surcharge single room
85.00
59.00
89.00
35.00
85.00
59.00
89.00
35.00
99.00
59.00
89.00
35.00
Additional nights
Place of arrival: Salzburg
  Season 1
Apr 27, 2024 - May 10, 2024
Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 5, 2024

Daily
Season 2
May 11, 2024 - May 24, 2024
Sep 7, 2024 - Sep 27, 2024

Daily
Season 3
May 25, 2024 - Sep 6, 2024

Daily
Salzburg
Double room p. P. 85.00 85.00 99.00
Single room surcharge 59.00 59.00 59.00
Grado
Double room p. P. 89.00 89.00 89.00
Surcharge single room 35.00 35.00 35.00
Price
21-Speed Unisex Bike
21-Speed Men's Bike
27-Speed Bike PLUS
Unisex E-Bike
7-Speed Unisex Bike
99.00
99.00
159.00
239.00
99.00
Prices per person in GBP

Our rental bikes

Included services and travel information

Services

Included:

  • Overnight stays as listed
  • Breakfast
  • Personal tour information (DE, EN)
  • Luggage transfers
  • Well-prepared route guide
  • Detailed travel documents 1 x per room (DE, EN, FR)
  • 1 train ride Böckstein - Mallnitz incl. bike
  • 1 train ride Villach - Tarvis incl. bike
  • Navigation app and GPS data
  • Service hotline

Optional:

  • Return transfer to Salzburg every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning, cost per person € 175,-, for own bike additional € 39,-; reservation required, payable in advance.
  • With rental bike incl. rental bike insurance
Travel information

Arrival / Parking / Departure:

  • Salzburg train station
  • Salzburg Airport
  • Parking approx. EUR 10,- to 20,- / day, payable on spot, no reservation possible/necessary!
  • Public garage approx. EUR 95,- / week
  • The return journey by public transport is only possible with a change of train.

Important information:

  • Visitor's tax, if due, is not included in the travel price!
  • Further important information according to the Package Travel Act can be found here!