R2/R19 Salzkammergut Cycle Path

By bike, you can simultaneously admire crystal-clear lakes and impressive mountain peaks here and follow in the footsteps of the imperial family. Historic, scenically impressive, and picturesque – a comfortable route with a striking scenery through the states of Upper Austria, Salzburg, and Styria, which already inspired artists like Gustav Klimt.

320 stunning kilometers through Salzburg State, Upper Austria, and Styria

No matter where you join the route – cyclists are immediately immersed in one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Alpine region. And: The journey following the footsteps of the Habsburg monarchy can be supplemented or shortened at any time by ship or train connections and junction points.

If you set off in the city of Salzburg in front of Mozart's birthplace, you surely have one thing in mind: drifting along to the master's melodies to Lake Wolfgang – or following the rattling rhythm of the former Ischlerbahn. Even today, one mostly takes the peaceful railway line that once ran from Salzburg to Bad Ischl.

At Lake Wolfgang, the gateway to the landscape opens up, which with more than 76 crystal-clear lakes and many easily accessible mountain peaks makes this route so special. Here, cyclists can decide whether to quickly switch to one of the scheduled ships, such as the one to St. Wolfgang, or to quickly climb the peaks of Zwölferhorn or Schafberg by cable car or mountain railway. Stopping at the “Weiße Rössl” feels like a journey back in time into an operetta and a mountain excursion wonder if you want to rest briefly. With Bad Ischl – European Capital of Culture 2024 – a hub is reached in several respects: Here, all threads of Empress Elisabeth's passion for the summer retreat come together, which can still be experienced in her former tea house or in the Kaiservilla today. Here, cyclists can take a deep breath on the shores of the Traun – probably most enjoyably with a pastry from the k.u.k court confectionery Zauner. From Bad Ischl, it goes toward the Styrian Salzkammergut, the home of traditional costume and – in culinary terms – of the char fish.

No question that the further route into more alpine terrain to Trautenfels in the Enns Valley is very rewarding. On the way are the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hallstatt with the oldest salt mine in the world, gigantic ice caves in the Dachstein massif, and on the Styrian side Bad Aussee on the edge of mystical waters such as Lake Altaussee or Lake Grundlsee and the Kulm ski flying hill.

If you prefer the shorter option from Bad Ischl, an enjoyable ride awaits at Lake Traunsee from Gmunden on board the oldest coal-fired paddle steamer in the world. Now we turn west and head toward the turquoise Lake Attersee. Enjoy one of the wonderful beach bars here or a plunge into the water on the way towards Unterach and Lake Mondsee. From Mondsee, the route goes via side roads and cycle paths to Lake Irrsee and further into the Salzburg Lake District, which also includes Lakes Wallersee, Mattsee, and Obertrumer See. You should definitely visit the new BioArt Campus in Seeham before heading back towards Salzburg.

Numerous excursion and supplementary options make the cycle path network around the Salzkammergut Cycle Path one of the most beautiful cycling regions in the Alpine region.

Several cycling hubs also allow for shorter circular routes. Using alternatives by train and ship, the cycle path is also suitable for families, especially the routes Salzburg-Mondsee, along Lake Wolfgang, and along the Traun.

• The difficulty is rated between easy and medium.


• The route mostly runs on cycle paths and low-traffic secondary roads. For sections on federal roads, a ship or train ride offers an alternative (Hallstatt Lake, Traunsee, Wolfgangsee, Attersee).


• Signage is provided in both directions, each within the framework of the state cycle path network (R2 in Upper Austria, R19 in Styria).

Modern trekking bikes or mountain bikes are ideal. Racing bikes are less recommended.

Breakdowns can happen: a basic set of tools and accessories never hurts!

• Tire repair kit


• Multitool


• Spare tube, pump, tire levers


• First aid kit

Salzkammergut Tourism
+43 6132 26909
www.salzkammergut.at

In July and August, the places on the Salzkammergut lakes are in high season, which limits the availability of accommodation for one night. It is recommended to book day by day in advance during July and August – local tourist boards are happy to assist in finding accommodation.

www.salzkammergutradweg.com