Alpe Adria Cycle Path - Salzburg to Grado

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.

After leaving Schwarzach, you say goodbye to the Salzach River and follow the Gasteiner Ache into the breathtaking Gastein Valley. Passing through Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein, the route leads to the famous spa town of Bad Gastein, nestled at the foot of the Hohen Tauern Mountains. With its elegant Belle Époque architecture and the dramatic Gastein Waterfall at its heart, the town has long inspired artists and writers. A short ride takes you to Böckstein, where a quick 10-minute train journey through the Tauern Tunnel delivers you to Mallnitz on the southern side of the Alps. Back on two wheels, enjoy a thrilling descent into the Mölltal Valley, where your day’s ride comes to a rewarding finish.

Today’s ride follows 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 during a lunch break. This afternoon, enjoy a gentle descent along the Drau River, making for a relaxed and scenic ride. Along the way, take a break in the charming market town of Paternion, where historic churches and elegant palaces offer a glimpse into the region’s past. From here, it’s just a little more pedalling before you arrive in Villach, a lively town with a charming old centre and plenty of inviting cafés and restaurants—perfect for unwinding after a great day on the bike.

This morning you ascend by train into Italy to arrive in Tarvisio. In Italy the cycle paths are also well-developed allowing you to cycle leisurely downhill through the Val Canale-valley. As you pedal, marvel at the beauty of the Friulian alpine region with its intact, unspoilt nature and extensive forests. Your day finishes in one of the picturesque villages located in the foothills of the Julian Alps.

As you leave the Val Canale Valley, you arrive in Gemona del Friuli, one of the most beautiful historic towns in the Friulian-Julian region. Its stunning centre is dominated by the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, an architectural gem that is sure to impress. Continuing south towards Udine, the landscape begins to change, with the first vineyards appearing along the cycle route. Once in town, immerse yourself in the dolce vita—sip a coffee on the lively piazza, stroll through charming alleyways, and admire the elegant Gothic and Renaissance architecture that gives Udine its unique character.

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.