Cycling through the Salzkammergut – Part 1

Tips for cycle routes with beautiful views

Cycle route through the inner Salzkammergut

Lake Hallstatt is widely known for its fairytale setting between towering rock faces and the idyllic town of Hallstatt. This 17-kilometre cycle route takes a closer look at Lake Hallstatt. The tour starts in Bad Goisern and follows the Salzkammergut Cycle Route to Hallstatt and Obertraun. A special feature of this tour is a short boat crossing to the World Heritage Site of Hallstatt.

A visit to this international tourist magnet is a must. There is plenty to see and photograph here. Afterwards, follow the Salzkammergut Cycle Route to Obertraun. In warm weather, a lovely way to round off the day is with a refreshing dip in the lake. Alternatively, you can take the cable car up to the Krippenstein to enjoy the spectacular giant ice caves or the dizzying views from the Five Fingers. The return journey is via the same route or by train.

Lacus Felix

Lake Traunsee is certainly one of the most beautiful lakes in the Salzkammergut. It offers plenty of panoramic views and cultural attractions. The starting point for this tour is Gmunden, with its many buildings from the Austro-Hungarian era and a lovely lakeside promenade. From here, cycle along the western shore to Altmünster. Follow the R2 cycle path and continue on to Traunkirchen and Ebensee. There, board a boat and head to the eastern shore to Gasthof Hois’n. From there, cycle back over the Traun Bridge to the town centre of Gmunden. The total journey takes around 2–3 hours and covers a distance of almost 30 km.

Langbath Lakes Cycle Tour

Ebensee is the starting point for this cycle tour. This is where the 15.7 km tour begins, with 531 metres of elevation gain to tackle. This isn’t really for leisure cyclists, as you’ll work up quite a sweat here. In the centre of Ebensee, follow the signs to the Langbath Lakes. The route follows the Langbathbach stream along a well-surfaced road, climbing steadily uphill. After about 4 km, there is the option to continue along a forest track to reach the front lake.

After about 8 km, the scenery opens up and you are rewarded with the almost unreal, beautiful sight of the two Langbath Lakes. They are a nature reserve, and a walk or cycle around the lakes offers a deeper appreciation of the beauty of nature. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, and a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes is highly recommended during the summer months. Afterwards, you simply return along the same route.

By the way, you can easily hire bikes from us at Hotel Winzer in St. Georgen im Attergau.

Written by Christian Messmer