Salzkammergut Cycle Trail

A Cycling Journey through Austria's "10th State"

If there's a place where nature, culture, and history flow together in perfect harmony, it's the Salzkammergut. Often called "Austria's 10th state," this region reveals its full splendor along the Salzkammergut Cycle Trail—a 320-kilometer round trip that captures the best of the Alpine foothills and the Alps. Cyclists embarking on this diverse route will discover a landscape shaped by sparkling lakes, rolling hills, and majestic mountains. At the same time, they will encounter a region whose cultural treasures and historical significance are deeply woven into the Austrian soul.

From Lake to Lake through the Salzkammergut

From Salzburg to the “Sound of Music” Film Locations

The Salzkammergut Cycle Trail is a circular route that can be started from various points. A particularly popular starting point is the city of Salzburg, whose baroque old town and status as Mozart’s birthplace make it an ideal beginning for this journey. From here, the route leads into the extensive lake district. Gentle hills and wide valleys alternate with rugged mountains and deep blue lakes. Particularly impressive is the ride along Lake Wolfgangsee, where the trail runs right along the shore, offering breathtaking views of the shimmering lake and the Schafberg mountain. Cyclists will also pass by some of the original filming locations of the world-famous movie “The Sound of Music,” shot in this region.

From Lake Wolfgangsee to the Dachstein

Shortly after Lake Wolfgangsee, you reach the picturesque town of Bad Ischl, once the summer residence of the Austrian emperor. With its elegant architecture and imperial flair, Bad Ischl is a cultural highlight of the route. In 2024, Bad Ischl – Salzkammergut will be celebrated as the European Capital of Culture, adding even more splendor to the town and the entire region. The trail continues into the Inner Salzkammergut, passing Lake Hallstatt and winding through the UNESCO World Heritage area of Hallstatt-Dachstein. The region is renowned not only for its breathtaking natural scenery and historic salt mines but also as a paradise for cyclists. The route meanders through narrow valleys, passing historic sites and traditional villages deeply rooted in the history of salt mining.

From Traunsee, Attersee, and Mondsee Back to the City of Mozart

Another highlight along the route is Lake Traun, surrounded by towering mountains. With its deep blue water and fresh air, it is a true nature lover’s paradise. Further north, you arrive in Gmunden, a district capital known for its ceramics production and its picturesque location directly on the lake. The route then leads towards Lake Atter, Austria’s largest inland lake, whose turquoise waters and rolling hills provide the perfect backdrop for wrapping up the tour, before heading back over Mondsee, Irrsee, and the Salzburg Lake District to the city of Salzburg.

©TV Mondsee

A Region Full of Treasures

The Salzkammergut Cycle Trail is not only a physical challenge but also a cultural journey of discovery. Along the route, there are numerous sights that testify to the rich history and culture of the region. These include historic towns like Salzburg, Bad Ischl, and Hallstatt, all deeply rooted in Austria’s history. Particularly impressive is the UNESCO World Heritage site Hallstatt-Dachstein, with its unique blend of natural and cultural heritage, making it a highlight of any journey through the Salzkammergut.

The Salzkammergut spans the federal states of Salzburg, Upper Austria, and Styria, linking these regions in a harmonious union of culture and nature. Because of its unique identity and strong cultural ties, the Salzkammergut is often referred to as Austria’s “10th state.”

Who Is the Salzkammergut Cycle Trail For?

The Salzkammergut Cycle Trail is ideal for leisure cyclists and families looking for a combination of nature, culture, and physical activity. The route is largely well-developed as a cycle path and runs away from busy roads, making it attractive for less experienced cyclists as well as families with children. The trail offers a balanced mix of flat sections and gentle climbs, making it manageable for most. E-bikes can help make the uphill sections, which should not be underestimated, easier to tackle.

There are many opportunities to explore individual sections or ride the tour in several stages. Along the route, there are numerous inns, guesthouses, and hotels that provide cyclists with comfortable accommodation. The many train stations throughout the region (Salzburg, Bad Ischl, Hallstatt, Bad Aussee, Gmunden, Neumarkt am Wallersee) are ideal not only for arriving by public transport but also for combining different stages of the Salzkammergut Cycle Trail.

Tips for a Successful Tour

The Salzkammergut Cycle Trail is well-signposted throughout and easy to follow. The round tour can be ridden in either direction, though many start in Salzburg and travel counterclockwise. There are numerous options for getting to Salzburg or another starting point in the Salzkammergut, including well-developed train connections.

Along the route, there are many bike rental stations and repair shops, ensuring that cyclists are always well equipped. It’s advisable, especially during the peak season, to book accommodations in advance to enjoy a stress-free trip. The region is well-prepared for cycling and offers many specialized accommodations catering to the needs of cycling tourists.