Cycling Holidays on the Drava Cycle Path
From Italy to Slovenia
The Drava Cycle Path is one of the most beautiful long-distance cycling routes in Europe, leading through South Tyrol, East Tyrol, Carinthia and Slovenia. On this varied cycling holiday along the Drava River, you will experience a southern atmosphere south of the Alpine ridge. The route combines impressive mountain landscapes with warm bathing lakes, lively towns and idyllic villages. The tour starts in the charming town of San Candido (Innichen) on the Italian-Austrian border. From there, the excellently developed, 5-star rated cycle path leads via Lienz and Spittal to Villach and on to Lake Wörthersee or through the Rosental Valley to Lake Klopeiner See, the warmest bathing lake in Europe.
➡ HERE are the most popular sights ⬅
2024 on the winners' podium
First place
The German cycle travel magazine "Bike&Travel" once again called for a big reader vote last year.
Over 29,000 votes were cast for the most popular cycle tours in the categories ‘Germany’, ‘Alps’ and ‘Europe & Elsewhere’.
We are particularly proud that the Drau Cycle Route is one of the winners:
1st place category ‘The most popular Alpine tours’: Drau Cycle Path in Carinthia
TOP sights on the Drau cycle path
THE BEST FISH ALONG THE DRAU AT FISHERY STEFFAN
on Lake Klopeiner See
Located directly along the Drava Cycle Path in Carinthia, the restaurant Fishery Steffan at Lake Klopeiner See is a true insider tip for cyclists and fish lovers. In a peaceful natural setting, guests enjoy freshly prepared fish dishes, traditional Carinthian cuisine and vegetarian specialties. The terrace offers a beautiful view of the green Drava River and the surrounding landscape. The restaurant’s excellent cuisine has been recognized in the Falstaff Restaurant Guide. For cyclists on a cycling holiday along the Drava Cycle Path, Fishery Steffan is the perfect place for a relaxing and delicious break.
THE BEST KASNUDELN ALONG THE DRAU
at the Hotel Rosentaler Hof
The 4-star Hotel Rosentaler Hof in St. Jakob im Rosental is famous throughout Carinthia for its traditional Carinthian kasnudeln (cheese-filled pasta). Located directly on the Drava Cycle Path, this charming country hotel is a popular stop for cycling travelers. Regional ingredients and traditional recipes are at the heart of the kitchen. The peaceful setting in the Rosental valley and the welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place for a relaxing break. Anyone on a cycling holiday along the Drava should not miss the opportunity to try this regional specialty.
EGGER-LIENZ-GALLERY
at Bruck Castle
The Egger-Lienz Gallery at Schloss Bruck in Lienz is one of Austria’s most important art collections. It houses the largest collection of works by Austrian painter Albin Egger-Lienz outside Vienna. Visitors gain insight into the artist’s development from historicism to expressionism. Schloss Bruck itself is a historic castle located above the town of Lienz and offers impressive views of the surrounding Alpine landscape. For culture lovers, the gallery is a worthwhile stop during a cycling trip along the Drava Cycle Path.
OCHSENSCHLUCHT
near Berg im Drautal
The Ochsenschlucht near Berg im Drautal is a spectacular natural attraction along the Drava Cycle Path. This romantic gorge fascinates visitors with its impressive rock formations and unique geological features. Walking paths and viewpoints allow visitors to explore this beautiful landscape up close. The gorge is also known for hosting the famous open-air play “Berger Jedermann”, performed here approximately every ten years. For cyclists, the Ochsenschlucht offers a scenic and refreshing stop during a cycling holiday along the Drava River.
PORCIA CASTLE
in Spittal an der Drau
Porcia Castle in Spittal an der Drau is considered one of the most beautiful Renaissance buildings north of the Alps. Built in the 16th century, the castle impresses with elegant arcades and richly decorated stucco and relief details. Its architectural style resembles an Italian palazzo and makes it one of the most important historical landmarks in Carinthia. Cultural events and theatre performances are regularly held in the castle courtyard. For travelers on a cycling holiday along the Drava Cycle Path, Porcia Castle is a fascinating cultural highlight.
LANDSKRON CASTLE
The Landskron Castle ruins, located above Villach, are one of the best-known landmarks in Carinthia. Originally expanded into a magnificent Renaissance castle by the Khevenhüller family, only the impressive ruins remain today. From the castle, visitors enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Villach, Lake Ossiach and the surrounding Alpine landscape. The site is also famous for its spectacular bird of prey show, attracting visitors from around the world. For cyclists on the Drava Cycle Path, Landskron is a rewarding detour with unforgettable views.
SEESPITZ RESTAURANT IN THE FALKENSTEINER SCHLOSSHOTEL
in Velden at the Lake Wörthersee
The stylish Restaurant Seespitz at the Falkensteiner Schlosshotel in Velden on Lake Wörthersee is located directly on the lakeshore. Cyclists can enjoy modern gourmet cuisine prepared with fresh regional ingredients and creative flair. The spacious terrace offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. In addition to fine à la carte dishes, guests can enjoy aperitifs, cocktails and delicious desserts from the hotel’s own patisserie. For travelers on a Drava Cycle Path cycling holiday, Seespitz is an elegant place for a relaxing culinary break.
VILLACH
The charming town of Villach is the lively center of the region along the Drava Cycle Path. As the second-largest city in Carinthia, it delights visitors with historic buildings, cozy cafés and a beautiful pedestrian zone. From the tower of St. Jakob’s Parish Church on the main square, visitors enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Villach is also the gateway to nearby lakes such as Lake Faak and Lake Ossiach. For cyclists, the town is the perfect place to stroll, relax and explore during a cycling holiday along the Drava.
GERLITZEN
The Gerlitzen Alpe is one of the most beautiful panoramic mountains in Carinthia and offers spectacular views of Lake Ossiach. A cable car conveniently takes visitors up to around 1,800 meters above sea level. From the summit, an impressive panorama opens up over the surrounding lakes and the Alpine landscape. The mountain features an extensive hiking network as well as cozy alpine huts and restaurants. For cyclists traveling along the Drava Cycle Path, the Gerlitzen is an ideal excursion for enjoying nature and breathtaking views.