Alpe Adria – Alps to Adriatic
Cycling Alpe Adria Bicycle Road: Salzburg from Gradoga bypass Slovenia Hidden Pearl
One of the most beloved cycling in Europe is the Alpine Adria. The diversity of the landscape you experience is extensive from the beautiful Salzburg through the Alpine to Italy and the warm waters of the Adriatic Sea. But why stay strictly on the road if you can spice up with a bypass things with one of the most beautiful wine areas in Slovenia?
Starting his Alpe Adria Adventure Salzburg Gastein Valley
Your adventure begins in a picturesque city in Salzburg in Austria, at Mozart’s birthplace and music sound. I recommend taking an extra day to experience this beautiful city. The Alpe Adria Cycling Road starts officially here, taking you through the Salzach River valley, which is lined by the Alps. The road is well paved and mainly flat, making a light start when you soak the views of the Alpine meadows and the charming villages through Golling. Then there is a blow above Lueg’s passport, which is short but sharp, but EBIKE has no problem. Then you will have a great downhill through the gorge and Werfen, whose admirable castle is high.
Through the valley, passed the arable land and the impressive ski jump in Bischofshophen. If you are lucky, there may be some training. It is a heart pumping that is not weak.
Climbing the gastein valley, cycling through a tunnel, but don’t worry; You are separated from traffic. The Gastein Valley is impressive with its steep sides and beautiful villages. There is a lot to rest and on a hot day you can water your toes in cool or freezing water! Bad Gastein is known for its waterfall and healing water. Each village or city with “bad” at first means natural springs in water many healing properties. Try to approach a steep mountain first in the morning when your feet are fresh. Otherwise you have to deal with 15% tired feet!
Through the north-south gap and down to Villachi
Böckstein, at the end of the Gastein valley, will take you through the “Tauernnschleus”, which will take you to the north of the Alps. The journey only takes about 15 minutes, so it’s short and cute. Remember to book your ticket.
Make Mallnitz from Mallnitz to Obervellach is as exhilarating as impressive. It is a good idea to stop at the points to cool your brakes, giving you time to take photos and soaking the surroundings.
From there, this is a peaceful cycle to Möllbrucke, where you join the Drau River, then through the Spital, reaching the city of Villach.
Villach is a beautiful city and a great place to catch overnight and catch your breath, try some local cuisine and watch the world passing by the cobblestone in the pedestrian area.
Crossing of boundaries: Villach to Tarvisi and Gemona del Friul
When leaving Villach, the route begins with a gentle climb towards the Austrian-Italian border. You turn the mountain slope across the border and pass the old train station by driving the city of Tarvisio through a new bike path. This border town is known for its cordial Italian-Austrian cuisine. This is a great place with pasta, gnocchi or car tire size!
After leaving Tarvisio, you must pass the clock through the Alpe Adria “Gateway”. Then you follow a large part of the old railway line. Together with hill slopes and viaducts carved tunnels that provide impressive views of the valley below. You also cross the river across the bridge you see. Those who are not so interested in the heights, keep their eyes straight ahead and continue to pedal.
It was my favorite part of the route, although throughout the time we did last year, the rain was cast. But we just sang and laughed and enjoyed the journey. The main thing for us was that we had a decent rain supply, so it did not break the trip and we saw this impressive part of the route. We stopped at Chiusaafte, previously in the attractive cafe, in the station platform and in the waiting room, with good cakes, great coffee and warm reception.
Bypass it Slovenia: Gemon del Friuli Gorishka Brdan
My friend had not been to this Slovenian region, so I decided to bypass Gorishka Brda wine region. This area, often called Slovenian Tuscany, is a hidden pearl filled with rolling vineyards, olive bases, thousands of fruit trees and charming villages. I think it is worth a visit and gives you a taste of Slovenia. Doing you want to return and study more.
The roads here are quieter, swirling through the mountains and offering spectacular views at every step. Stop at the local wine factory to taste some of the famous Robula wine in the area. And don’t miss the opportunity to explore medieval villages like Šmartno with its narrow cobblestone streets and friendly locals.
Editing on the Route: Gorishka Brda to Grado
After soaking the silence of Gorishka Brda, it is time to return to Italy. He is headed to the Adriatic Sea and Grado city, connected to the mainland, built -in road. Grado is the official end of Alpe Adria when you reach the warm waters of the Adriatic Sea. Grado is a popular summer destination for sun lovers, many hotels and accommodations range from this island. It has a pretty old city that is perfect for cold beer, antipast and some serious people. My only complaint about this area is that millions of small flies get everywhere. One even came to my eyes, which was incredibly painful. So, be sure to wear sunglasses and hold your mouth.
We had a lovely evening in Grado, enjoyed the seaside, dancing on the street, googling ice cream and generally soaking the atmosphere.
Direction again to the north: Grado to Udine finishes Alpe Adria Adventure
Driving to Udine is a pleasure, mostly flat landscape and time -a delicate mountain that reminds you that you are still on cycling.
Udine is a treasure of culture and history with its own Venetian -style Piazza, living cafes and a castle that offers panoramic views of the city. This is an ideal place to put your ride together with a festive meal – maybe some risotto or plate Frico, a local cheese delicacy. Think of “Death by Cheese” – you get the idea.
Journey back: Udine Villachin by train
When your cycling adventure falls, it’s time to give your feet a pause. From Udine to jump back to the train to Villach. A train trip offers a relaxing end to your trip as you look at the landscapes through the comfort of your seat. It is a jam -packed train full of cyclists on bicycles for a day or they have finished the Alpe Adria route. There is not much personal space on the train. The top tip would be to go before the train.
When you get back to Villach, you can enjoy the Austrian hospitality one night or continue your journey to Salzburg, knowing that you have conquered one of Europe’s most picturesque and rewarding bike paths.
So, whether in the mountains or throw a rainy day in the Alps, flies near Grado, or by sipping Gorishka Brda wine, keep in mind that true cycling joy is not only on your destination but also in the discovery of the road.
