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Gastein waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs surrounded by lush green forest, with a white historic building visible on the left.

Ciclovia Alpe Adria

An approx. 414 km long-distance cycle route that leads from Salzburg in Austria across the Alps to Grado in Italy.

A cycle tour from Austria to Italy over the Alps with luggage transport

Cycle over the Alps with light luggage. We organise this tour with two long-distance cyclists. There are options for bridging steep climbs by train. Nevertheless, we always recommend an electric bike, as it enables you to tackle the sportier sections, such as the Lueg Pass, in no time at all. You can also enjoy this more challenging stage on an electric bike on the royal stage through the Gastein Valley to the Möll Valley.

From the south of Austria to Italy

After the roaring descent into the Mölltal valley, you first cycle along the Möll river through impressive high mountain landscapes through the south of Austria. The route continues gently downhill along the Drau to Villach. The town is located in the province of Carinthia, not far from the borders with Italy and Slovenia. Villach captivates with its narrow alleyways, cobbled squares and colourful houses with a Mediterranean flair. And Italy is not far away!

Two cyclists with touring bikes and panniers riding through a green meadow on the Alpe Adria cycle path with Alpine mountains in background.

Cycling to Italy

The cycle path in Italy is also very well equipped and you cycle through unspoilt, unspoilt nature with extensive forests. 

Gemona del Friuli

The small municipality of Gemona is located in the Canal Valley north of Udine and at the foothills of the Julian Pre-Alps. Take some time to explore the historic town centre.

The first vineyards soon appear on the way to Udine. This marvellous stage takes you into the heart of Friuli.

Udine

Udine is a northern Italian pearl for which you should definitely plan enough time. The numerous historical sights and the beautiful cityscape invite you to linger. Would you like to enjoy some Italian flair? Then Udine is an excellent tip for you.

It already smells of sea air

The route continues through a vast landscape of reeds and along small water channels towards the Adriatic Sea. Grado is one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Adriatic and impresses with its historic harbour, narrow alleyways and an extensive sandy beach. What a finale!

Harbor in Grado with numerous sailboats and yachts moored in calm blue water, surrounded by colorful Mediterranean buildings under a bright sky.

Best travelling time

The best time to cycle along the Alpe-Adria Cycle Path is from May to September.

Female cyclist with helmet and red bike at wooden railing viewpoint overlooking forested valleys and dramatic Alpine peaks under cloudy sky.

Across the Alps? Is that really possible?

The Alpe Adria cycle path is a long-cherished dream for many cyclists: to cycle across the Alps from Salzburg to the Mediterranean. Do you have great sporting ambitions and have you already travelled many cycle paths, including more difficult ones? Are you wondering whether the Alpe-Adria Cycle Path might be too much of a sporting challenge?

We can understand these thoughts very well. One thing we can say: if you like it sporty and love a challenge, you're in good hands here. With an electric bike, you can enjoy the cycle path with a normal level of fitness. You can also plan train journeys, which can easily bridge a few steep inclines.

Whatever you decide, one thing is certain: the Alpe Adria cycle path is worth every effort, as it offers culture, crystal-clear lakes, impressive views and Austrian and Italian cuisine.

View of Grado marina from the water showing colorful buildings, moored sailboats and yachts under a blue sky with white clouds.
Cycling holiday on the Alpe-Adria Cycle Path

You can plan two longer train journeys during the journey and treat yourself to a breather.

You now receive special conditions when you book a trip.