Deluxe Alpe Adria Cycling 9D8N (Alpine Valleys, Medieval Villages & Sun-Drenched Coast), Fully Guided

Approx. 15km (9 miles), 2 hours biking

Welcome to Austria! Upon your arrival, our team will be there to meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Salzburg. Once you’ve checked in and had some time to settle, we’ll get your bikes ready for a casual afternoon ride. This will give you a chance to get comfortable with the equipment and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Salzburg, known for its stunning Alpine scenery and historic charm.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a traditional Austrian dinner featuring local specialties like schnitzel. The meal will be complemented by the rich cultural heritage of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, setting the tone for an unforgettable trip.

You’ll stay at Hotel IMLAUER & Bräu in Salzburg, just steps away from the historic Old Town and Mirabell Palace, making it perfect for exploring the city's cultural landmarks.

Approx. 53km (33 miles), 3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 470m (1542 ft)

Your adventure begins with an early morning start as we depart from Salzburg on our bikes, riding through Austria's picturesque valleys. The day's highlight is a visit to the Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves in Werfen, renowned as the largest ice caves in the world. Here, you'll join a local guide for a tour through a subterranean labyrinth of otherworldly ice formations and frozen waterfalls—a truly unforgettable experience.

Following our exploration of the caves, we will enjoy a hearty Austrian lunch, featuring traditional homemade dishes and a refreshing Weiss beer. Afterward, our journey continues along the scenic riverside path to Bischofshofen. The route offers numerous opportunities to pause for photos and simply appreciate the stunning landscapes that unfold around you.

You’ll stay at Harry’s Home, nestled amidst the captivating scenery of Bischofshofen. Rejuvenate your senses in the panoramic spa, where a Finnish sauna, steam bath, and serene relaxation areas await, providing the perfect sanctuary after a day of exploration.

Approx. 48km (30 miles), 4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 770m (2526 ft)

After a hearty breakfast, our journey continues south into the breathtaking expanse of Hohe Tauern National Park. As we pedal, you'll find yourself encircled by the towering peaks of the Austrian Alps and the pristine wilderness that is home to an abundance of native wildlife.

We’ll pause for a revitalising lunch amidst the crisp mountain air of Sportgastein, a high-alpine valley known for its stunning panoramic views and cross-country ski trails in winter. From there, the ride continues into the famous spa town of Bad Gastein. Feel the wind in your hair as you descend along a route framed by scenery so beautiful it feels as if it were plucked from a dream.

Later in the evening, we will take a leisurely stroll to explore the elegant Belle Époque architecture of Bad Gastein, admire the iconic waterfall that cascades through its town centre, and conclude the day with a relaxed dinner together.

You’ll stay at MONDI Hotel Bellevue, nestled in the heart of Bad Gastein, with breathtaking views of the Hohe Tauern mountains. Indulge your senses in the expansive wellness area, featuring pools, saunas, and a whirlpool.

Approx. 80km (50 miles), 4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 622m (2040 ft)

Today, we start with a short bike ride to the train station, where we board a train that takes us through a tunnel into a new part of Austria. From there, we enjoy a scenic downhill ride that leads us to the beautiful Drava River. This route runs through Carinthia, a picturesque region of Austria located near the borders of Italy and Slovenia. Along the way, you’ll experience the classic Austrian countryside, complete with the sound of cowbells and the sight of eagles soaring above.

After a break for lunch, we head to Villach, a charming city known for its rich history and relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can explore the quaint streets, check out local shops, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Villach is also a great place to take in the blend of Austrian traditions and the influence of its neighboring countries, making it a memorable stop on our journey.

You’ll stay at Voco Villach Hotel in Villach. Rejuvenate your senses in the tranquil spa, complete with a sauna, steam bath, and vitality pool or indulge in an exquisite dining experience at the award-winning gourmet restaurant, LAGANA.

Approx. 48km (30 miles), 3-4 hours biking, Elevation gain: 600m (1969 ft)

The ride from Villach to the Italian border is a stunning 25 km stretch that’s perfect for cycling enthusiasts. The route takes you through scenic landscapes, from the rolling hills of Austria to the picturesque views as you approach the Italian border. Once we cross into Italy, we’ll stop in Tarvisio, a charming alpine town known for its mix of Italian and Slovenian influences. Here, we’ll enjoy a coffee break and have time to explore the town’s quaint streets and local shops.

From Tarvisio, we’ll continue to Lake Predil, a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by mountains. Lunch will be served with incredible lake views, and you’ll have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip if you’d like. It’s the perfect way to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.

In the evening, we’ll wrap up the day with a traditional Italian dinner at a cozy local restaurant, where you’ll get to enjoy hearty, authentic dishes and experience the warm hospitality Italy is famous for. It’s a day filled with cycling, culture, and stunning scenery!

You’ll stay at the charming, Hotel Edelhof, located in the heart of Tarvisio. Enjoy a relaxing wellness centre with a sauna and Turkish bath, alongside exquisite dining featuring local flavours, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Julian Alps.

Approx. 65km (40 miles), 4 hours biking

After starting the day with a cappuccino and fresh brioche, we head through Val Canale, a beautiful valley known for its lush landscapes and historic significance. From there, we take a cable car up to the Santuario del Monte Lussari, a stunning mountaintop sanctuary that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a peaceful and breathtaking spot, perfect for taking in the scenery.

The route then takes us past historic train tunnels, charming villages, and along the River Delta, known for its tranquil beauty. Make sure to bring a camera to capture some of these incredible views.

We’ll spend the night near Lake Cavazza, a serene and picturesque location ideal for relaxing. After lunch, we’ll visit Venzone, a small but incredibly charming village that’s considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. With its whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved ancient town walls, it’s like stepping back in time. It’s the perfect place to wander, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy a leisurely ice cream.

You’ll stay at Hotel Trilago, nestled in the picturesque town of Venzone, offers a serene escape surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes and the stunning Lago dei Tre Comuni. Indulge in at the wellness spa complete with panoramic infinity pool, before a fine dining experience featuring locally inspired cuisine.

Approx. 43km (27 miles), 3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 190m (623 ft)

After leaving the lake, we head toward Udine, a city surrounded by mountains and known for its historic castle. The route today includes a combination of gravel and paved roads, offering a bit of variety and a small sense of adventure.

Once we arrive in Udine, there’s plenty of time to explore. The city is known for its charming narrow streets, vibrant piazzas, and historic landmarks like Piazza Libertà and the Loggia del Lionello, a stunning Venetian Gothic building. Feel free to wander through the city at your own pace and take in its unique blend of Italian and Austrian influences.

Lunch is enjoyed at a terrace along one of the scenic canals, where you can sample local dishes that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. In the late afternoon, we visit a local winery for a relaxed wine tasting session, followed by an aperitivo to wind down the day.

You’ll stay at Hotel Suite Inn, nestled within the historic heart of Udine. After a day of discovery, surrender to serenity in the intimate wellness area, complete with a sauna and Turkish bath, before retreating to your exquisitely designed suite.

AApprox. 45km (28 miles), 2 hours biking

The final stretch of our journey takes us from Udine south to the Adriatic Sea. The flat terrain makes for an enjoyable and relaxed ride, giving us time to soak in the scenery. As we approach the coast, we’ll cross the beautiful lagoons of Grado, a unique area known for its picturesque views and wildlife.

We’ll end the ride together at the Grado seafront, where we’ll capture a group photo to mark the end of our incredible journey. Afterward, we’ll explore Grado’s charming old town, known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to choose a local restaurant for a well-deserved lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a scenic boat trip to a secluded island nearby, offering a peaceful retreat and stunning views. The day concludes with a special final dinner, a celebratory moment to reflect on our adventure from Salzburg to the Adriatic Sea.

You’ll stay at Hotel Astoria, nestled in the heart of Grado, offering a serene sanctuary just moments from the sea. Indulge your senses at the thermal water spa and wellness centre, or ascend to the rooftop terrace for a dip in the saltwater pool, complete with breathtaking views over the lagoon.

As all great journeys must, our adventure together draws to a close. After a final, leisurely breakfast and an optional early morning ride for those who wish to soak in one last sunrise, we will arrange your transfer to the airport.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.