Only 30 miles east of Salzburg, Austria's Lake District is a bewitching contrast of soaring mountain peaks and undulating lowlands, laced with necklaces of sparkling rivers and lakes. It's the perfect destination for a self-guided cycling holiday. It is known as the 'Salzkammergut', literally the 'Treasure Trove of Salt', and as a result it was spectacularly wealthy in the 17C when salt was as valuable as gold. Rich in architecture, history and culture, this is where Kaisers and Empresses traditionally came to take the waters and enjoy the famous Summer Opera season - still celebrated in Bad Ischl today.
Near Lakes Mondsee, Attersee and Traunsee, the gentle landscape is sprinkled with Tyrolean homesteads and tiny fields of rustling corn and wheat, interspersed with rows of colourful tulips where passers by pick their own flowers and drop money into honesty boxes. This a wonderful region to explore on a relaxed cycling holiday, with gentle flat cycling routes to explore.
Further south this open country collides spectacularly with the dramatic ragged mountain peaks of Zwolferhorn (1521m) and Schafberg (1782m), whose shimmering reflections can be seen in the surfaces of the cleanest and bluest lakes in all Austria - Wolfgangsee and Fuschlsee. The famous composer, Gustav Mahler, was so inspired here he declared he had 'Set the landscape to music'; Gustav Klimt painted local castles, and Mozart's mother, was born in tiny St Gilgen. Pilgrims come to pray in St Wolfgang's medieval lakeside church, while others follow in the foot.
But don't just take our word for how amazing it is - you must see it for yourself. If you're about to plan your next holiday and have any questions about one of our cycling holidays in Salzburg, one of our experienced team will be able to help.
Explore Austria's Salzkammergut on a 6-night cycling adventure through crystal clear lakes, alpine villages, and lush meadows. Explore the historic depth of Bad Ischl and the charming town of Gmunden on Lake Traun, surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks and crystal-clear waters. Savour local culinary treasures like Pinzgauer Bierkäse and Mozart Kugeln marzipan chocolates. Immerse yourself in the captivating natural beauty and rich history of the region, a delightful mix of adventure and cultural exploration.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
Experience the enchanting Austrian lakes district on this cycling holiday through Salzkammergut. Roam idyllic alpine villages and serene blue lakes. Begin your journey in Salzburg, Mozart's hometown, pedalling along the scenic Salzach river to Mondsee. Explore Attersee, the region's largest lake, and be captivated by the charm of Lake Wolfgangsee. Discover UNESCO-listed Hallstatt and St Wolfgang, immersing yourself in rich history, and explore the Imperial past of Bad Ischl. Stay in carefully selected unique 4-star hotels, where luxury seamlessly blends with Austrian traditions.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
Stay in a luxury 4-star hotel with a top-of-the-range wellness centre and choose from a host of activities: walking, cycling (route notes for both provided), water sports, boat trips, and ice caves. Complimentary Headwater bikes are included for the duration of your stay.
DEPARTURE MONTHS
