The Drau Cycle Path – Group tour for families
The “Drau Radweg” (Drau Cycle Path) is one of the most spectacular cycling routes in Europe and because of its characteristics is well suited for first-time cyclists and families with children.
This route, which was also popular with Gustav Mahler, who stayed in Dobbiaco and Lake Wörth, is an ideal link between Alta Pusteria and Carinthia. It starts from Dobbiaco/Villabassa in the Dolomites, where the springs of the Drau are located, and through Val Pusteria to sunny Lienz before continuing on to Berg a.d.Drau and Villach.
Follow the comfortable bike path along the Drau river, surrounded by a fairytale landscape, until you reach the Carinthian lake region. Here we will have the opportunity to stop for a refreshing swim or relax under the sun! The wonderful views of the Dolomites and the turquoise lakes of Carinthia will be great travel companions on this two-wheeled holiday dedicated to the fun of everyone, young and old!
ITINERARY
Day1: Arrival in Alta Pusteria (Villabassa/Dobbiaco)
Individual arrival. Free unattended parking is available in the vicinity of the hotel. Late afternoon meeting with the guide. Dinner together to get to know each other and prepare for this adventure!
Day 2: Alta Pusteria (Villabassa/Dobbiaco): circular tour (about 20 km)
The first stage by bike takes us to the nearby Lake Dobbiaco, a jewel set in a wonderful mountain landscape, situated right on the border between the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Nature Park and the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park. Enjoy the effect of the water with its green and blue shades reflecting the rocky peaks of the mountains all around. We will then continue on towards Villabassa to give vent to all the desire for fun: at the Kurpark, slides, sandpits with bulldozers, swings, climbing equipment for children and the “Adventureland” area (from 12 years) with a magnificent tree house. The main attraction in summer remains the water games: here, both young and old can build dams to store water. While the children are having fun, the adults can relax at the Kneipp plant” (extra €5/adult) or take a leisurely walk along the botanical nature trail, which provides interesting information about the flora and fauna of the area. If we still have energy, on the way back we can visit a dairy or the jam factory. Today you’ll be free for dinner.
Day 3: Villabassa/Dobbiaco- S. Candido – Lienz/surroundings (about 50 km)
Leaving Dobbiaco we will cycle in the direction of the enchanting San Candido, a famous holiday resort where it is pleasant to take a walk through the pedestrian streets of the centre. After passing Sillian and the border with Austria we will continue in the eggera descent to Lienz, one of the sunniest cities in Austria. Along the way we will we will stop at the Loacker Goodness World in Heinfels where you can enjoy a thousand delicacies: from the exhibition, where you can discover the Loacker brand with all your senses to the Loacker Café where you can taste Loacker’s confectionery art and buy all the wafer specialities, great to keep on hand for your next snack! As we approach Lienz we will encounter the Galitzenklamm Gorge, a natural playground made of stone, wood and water, with a water labyrinth; always near Lienz the Osttirodler toboggan run: open all year round the Alpine Coaster, which descends to Lienz, is one of the most famous toboggan runs in Austria and if speed is guaranteed, the safety of those who decide to embark on this exciting adventure (not included) is equally guaranteed.
Day 4: Lienz/ – Berg im Drautal (approx 35 km)
Leaving Lienz, following what was once the route of a Roman trade route, we arrive in Oberdrauburg, a city rich in museums and still dedicated to wheat processing. We will then continue on to today’s destination, Berg im Drautal. Along the way attractions for children and the whole family such as the Aguntum Museum, about 5km after Lienz, to discover life in Roman times.
Day 5: Berg im Drautal – Spittal a.d. Drau/Millstättersee/dintorni (45-50 km approx)
Today’s stage takes us on a bike ride through an idyllic landscape between dreamy villages. If the sun is shining we can reach the shores of Lake Millstätter See for a quick dip before continuing along the “culture walk” from Upper Carinthia to “Spittal a.d. Drau”, where you can visit Porcia Castle and its museum of folk culture; in July and August renowned theatre performances are also held here.
Day 6: Spittal a.d. Drau/Millstättersee/dintorni – Villach (40 km approx)
On the way to Villach you can make a few stops to visit the Mycological Museum, the puppet world of Elli Riehls, archaeological excavations or take a swim in lakes such as the Ossiacher See or the Faaker See. Today’s destination is Villach, Carinthia’s second largest, lively and Mediterranean city. The old town, full of views reminiscent of Italy, serves as a theatre for many events, and of course in the centre you can’t miss the varied mix of boutiques, specialist shops, cafés and restaurants.
Day 7: Villach
Individual departure or possibility to extend your stay.
