Austrian Lakes Cycle Tour

Welcome to the stunning city of Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart. Wander the streets of this historic city and immerse yourself in Austrian culture.

Your first day in the saddle is all about discovering Austria’s charm. You’ll follow the Salzach River to Oberndorf, birthplace of the carol Silent Night. Stop in Arnsdorf to visit the museum, then continue on through the tranquil surroundings of Michaelbeuern Abbey. Ride into the picture-perfect Trumer Lakes region and pass shimmering waters like Lake Obertrum, Lake Mattsee and Lake Grabensee. If you’re looking for a shorter spin, there’s a direct route too. Take your time and enjoy the ride.

It’s a ride through nature’s peace and quiet today. Glide through the Egelseen lakes nature reserve and the charming village of Schleedorf. As the road rolls on, you’ll reach Lake Irrsee and then the magical town of Mondsee. There’s time here to explore the local castle or savour some smoky flavours at the town’s smokehouse. This is Austria at its laid-back best.

This is a day for the senses. Begin by tracing the edge of Lake Mondsee before continuing around Lake Attersee. If you're here in July or August, you can swap the saddle for a boat and cruise across instead. From there, the route takes you through the peaceful Aurachtal valley to Lake Traunsee. Visit Gmunden’s lakeside castle and world-renowned ceramics factory, then roll on to Altmünster’s bicycle museum and the dramatic Fishermen’s Pulpit in Traunkirchen.

Hop on the train and travel to Obertraun on the edge of Lake Hallstatt. If you're up for an adventure, take a detour into the Dachstein ice caves before riding on to Hallstatt, a lakeside village that looks like a postcard brought to life. Visit the oldest salt mine in the world before continuing to Bad Goisern or one of the peaceful towns nearby.

You will jump on a boat this morning that will take you to the Island of Favignana. Sitting 7km from Sicily's west coast, this is the third largest of the Aegadian Islands. Cycling along the smooth, flat coastal paths and overlooking the turquoise sea is a delight. We recommend stopping for a swim or to dip your feet into one of the many secluded bays. Immerse yourself in a relaxed, easy-going lifestyle of those in the village square and find out more about the rich fishing trade on the island. Return to Trapani this afternoon and enjoy your final evening on the Italian island.

Your final ride is a scenic sweep back to Salzburg. Start along the lake to St. Gilgen, then wind past Lake Fuschl, the serene Hintersee and the dramatic Strubklamm gorge. The Wiestal valley leads you out towards the Salzachtal. Before reaching Salzburg, stop at Schloss Hellbrunn and enjoy its playful fountains and expansive park. Then roll into the city and soak up the culture, music and energy of Mozart’s hometown. It’s a grand finale to an unforgettable journey.

Enjoy a final breakfast and check out at your leisure