Beautiful Road Cycle Tours without Borders in Carinthia

The mild climate on the southern side of the Alps makes it possible to take extended tours as early as in March, with the season generally lasting until November. The routes also provide variety, which is made possible by the distinctive mountain and lake scenery of the Alpe-Adria region that borders Italy and Slovenia.

The Carnic Dolomite Road

The Carnic Dolomite Road is another insider’s tip. It leads from Carinthia to Italy and back again via two beautiful mountain roads through the Carnic Alps. Geological features, witnesses to the passage of history and small linguistic enclaves in the Italian region of La Carnia accompany road cyclists.

Those who like to take on rewarding climbs should take an excursion to Carinthia’s sunniest outlook, Diex, a lovely little town with an average of 2,000 sun hours per year. The panoramic views of the Jauntal Valley, the Lavanttal Valley, the Karavankas, the Steiner Alps and the Petzen reward cyclists for the challenging ascent.

Another treasure of the south are the gentle epicure routes in the spacious Lavanttal Valley, which is also affectionately known as ‘Carinthia’s fruit pantry’. With its thousand-year history of fruit and wine growing, the valley is known for its pleasures and continues to lure visitors into taking a comfortable respite amidst the numerous cider growers and vintners. The Steiermark and Slovenia are also accessible from here via lovely routes.

And even more beautiful road cycle Tours

Three countries in one day means pleasure cubed: cultural, scenic and culinary. The famous ‘Three Country Tour’ starts at the desired departure point around Villach and follows serene roads to the national boundary and into Italy. Near Tarvisio it turns off into a romantic tributary valley that leads to idyllic Lado del Predil and winds its way up to the Predil Pass. Arriving at the top, cyclists finds themselves in Slovenia, and in Triglav National Park. This is a good place to pause and allow the stunning mountain scenery to have its effect. The path continues on into the famous valley of the Soča, which is amongst the most beautiful turquoise rivers in Europe. The incline to the Vrsič Pass rewards cyclists with a wonderful vista of the Trenta Valley before making a brisk descent in the direction of Kranjska Gora. The last climb travels over the Wurzen Pass, and the cyclist finally arrives in Carinthia once again after wonderful hours of cycling. Cyclists should forget about the time on the way because cycling too quickly through this impressive scenery will cause them to miss the unique scenic delights. On the contrary, cyclists should live in the moment and allow the Alpe-Adria region to work its magic. The best way to treat yourself to the local cuisine along the way is with prosciutto and cappuccino in Tarvisio, or with a ‘Gibanica’, a traditional flaky pastry, in the famous World Cup site of Kranjska Gora. The imaginative creations of Carinthian Alpe-Adria cuisine lure cyclists to an enjoyable finish on the many lakeside terraces. 

In the footsteps of Ironman Austria

A ride on the famous Ironman Austria route is a treat for any passionate road cyclist. It travels on the lovely Süduferstrasse along Lake Wörthersee past the picturesque Maria Wörth pilgrimage church and further on to Rosegg. Here, cyclists can take in the magical views from the lofty summits of the Karavankas Mountains. The ‘speed course’ at the turquoise Lake Faaker See provides a thrilling experience and lets cyclists feel the refreshing air rush by. The climb up the Rupertiberg crowns the tour with a grandiose view of the Rosental Valley. It travels along this valley via Klagenfurt towards Lake Wörthersee, where cyclists can proudly proclaim that they have experienced first-hand the intensity of the Ironman route. The tour is well signposted throughout with the unmistakable Ironman logo.