Drau Cycle Path R1

Destination Spittal an der Drau

Following the westernmost section from Toblach to Lienz, the Drau Cycle Path leads along the Drau River up to the East Tyrol-Carinthia border, which is marked by a distinctive bridge over the Drau. From there, it continues via Pirkach into the historic market town of Oberdrauburg. Next, the cyclist follows the Drau with alternating riverbank sides. Those who want to visit the herb village on the sunny terrace of the Upper Drau Valley need to be somewhat fit but are rewarded with a unique herbal scent and views of many small herb gardens. Worth seeing: the Pfarrstadel Herb House in Irschen.

Then it continues through the health resort Dellach to the Drau Oasis and shaded orchid forests to Berg im Drautal. From there, the route stays on the southern side of the Drau River to Sachsenburg. Stops are worthwhile in Greifenburg (bathing lake and high ropes course), at the Radlacher Drau resting place near Steinfeld, and the final station of the varied route through the Upper Drau Valley is Spittal an der Drau near the station. Here begins the next stage onwards to Villach.

A good trekking bike is completely sufficient. Those traveling with an e-bike can handle the small inclines near Berg im Drautal more easily.

In the event of prolonged rainfall, the water level of the Drau can rise, which can occasionally cause flooding of the cycle path at the railway bridge in Oberdrauburg. A detour is available and signposted.

By train to Oberdrauburg.

The train stations in the Upper Drau Valley are usually located very close to the cycle path.

Detailed information about the stages/accommodation/dining offers Drau Cycle Path

Along the cycle path there are many places to stop and eat at the Drau Cycle Path hosts. 

Unique across Europe is the herb village of Irschen between Oberdrauburg and Dellach; here you should stay a night and enjoy only the chirping of crickets and the scent of mountain herbs;