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Adriatic Tours & Trips

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10 best Adriatic tour packages

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Melissa Adriatic travel expert at TourRadar

Croatia Sailing Adventure

Dubrovnik and split, private tour, best of croatia 11 days, self-drive, private tour albania in 3 days~ berat - durres - kruje., bari & lecce: focaccia & pasticciotto private experience - 5 days, croatia island hop & stop - 8 days, best of croatia - 7 days dubrovnik to zagreb, discovering bari, private sailing: 3 islands & 2 caves.

“Overall the tour was amazing to visit different islands and was amazing weather, great company.” Jake Carosella, traveled in September 2023

• Island Hopping
• Walk the ancient walls of Dubrovnik
• Explore Split on a vibrant city tour
• Taste local wines in charming Korcula

“Dubrovnik and Split just are stunning to all your senses. Included transfers were great and on time.” Constantinos Antzoulatos, traveled in August 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Explore Dubrovnik's ancient walls and old town
• Taste authentic Croatian wines in Split
• Enjoy a boat ride to the magical Island of Lokrum

“Good and quality car that gives travellers the assurance that the car can bring them through all the outback region.” Chee Cho, traveled in April 2024

• Walk the cascading paths of Plitvice Lakes
• Explore Opatija, the Pearl of the Adriatic
• Drive through Zagreb's historic Upper and Lower Towns

“The communication with Visit Albania through Tour Radar was efficient and the whole team were very accommodating and informative.” Rachael Britten, traveled in October 2023

• Christmas & New Year
• Discover the Archaeological Museum of Durres
• Explore 64 lakes from Elbasan to Belsh
• Hike to Bogove waterfall in Tomorr Park

• Taste the authentic focaccia barese in Bari
• Explore Bari's historic Basilica of San Nicola
• Stroll through the timeless streets of Bari Vecchia

“We really enjoyed our '8 day Croatia Island Hop & Stop'. The accommodation varied from 'pretty average' to excellent.” Grant McLean, traveled in June 2024

• Walk the walls of Dubrovnik's old town
• Sail from Dubrovnik to the island of Korcula
• Uncover the secrets of Split's Diocletian's Palace

“The tour was really amazing. The itinerary was perfect. Places we visited were just insanely beautiful.” joyce cheng, traveled in September 2019

• Food & Culinary
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Discover the secrets of Split Old Town
• Explore UNESCO-listed Old City of Dubrovnik
• Tour the historic and vibrant city of Zagreb

• Taste homemade Italian ice cream in lively squares
• Discover archaeological treasures in Bari's museums
• Explore Bari's old town and historical sites

“Excellent trip great skipper.” Chris Hamm, traveled in June 2024

• Explore the sunny island of Hvar
• Start your trip at Split's Diocletian's Palace
• Visit the mesmerizing Blue and Green Caves

“The destinations were beautiful, and the weekend was really fun.” Nina, traveled in May 2018

• Taste Dalmatian wines at a local winery
• Relax on lively Bacvice Beach
• Cruise along Split's scenic coastline

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Adriatic Coast

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General information

At the edge of inspiring waters, the Adriatic Coast has enchanted sea-lovers for centuries. Soak in the luminous waves along the east coast nestling the distinct cities and alluring beaches. Preside over commanding panoramic views that extend to the shoreline over vineyards and villages. Explore the treasured promenade shopping beneath forested hills. Hop between more than 1,000 islands along the Croatian coastline, rightfully called “the pearl of the Adriatic.” Walk along sapphire waters rolling onto the brilliant white beaches of Montenegro, where some of the oldest city walls and medieval monuments in the Balkans welcome curious coastal visitors. Experience the allure of the Adriatic Sea and explore and savor the charming gifts of the coast

Discover the Thermal Heritage of Europe

The therapeutic use of hot springs has been present in Europe from ancient times to the present day, giving birth to a number of spa towns well-known for the beauty of their buildings, or long tradition of welcoming guests and the healing properties of its springs.

Marostica Cherries

The delicious Marostica cherry is the first cherry in Italy to obtain the PGI mark.

Divine Inspiration

Europe holds many impressive cathedrals, synagogues and mosques. These houses of worship hold important cultural, historic and religious significance. Many of these great buildings took centuries to build with ornate design and unique architecture.

Croatia’s heroines and artists

Inspiring Croatian women through history.

Slow Food: The Soul of the Countries

Slow food in Slovenia and Croatia is about digging into that mouthwatering cultural heritage and tradition one bite at a time.

Island-hopping in Croatia

Unforgettable summer experiences.

CHECK OUT OUR LATEST GUIDE

Kranj – a European trailblazer in sustainable tourism

Meet Kranj in Slovenia: the 2023 European Destination of Excellence title.

Countries in this region

Recommended trips, cruising along the adriatic to the mediterranean.

Vacation is a time to get away from it all and sit back, pamper yourself and enjoy a truly relaxing getaway. Europe is the perfect place to do that and more. Full of beautiful beaches and unforgettable views, it’s easy to relax and rejuvenate. Take a relaxing cruise through the Adriatic Coast and Mediterranean Islands for an unforgettably soothing experience. So leave your worries at home and get ready to unwind on your next vacation in Europe.

A Luxurious Shopping Tour Through Europe

Europe is known around the world for its high fashion and exclusive brands. Splurge on an extravagant shopping tour of the hottest cities for fashion. Take a tour of some of the best cities for fashion and luxury, and make some extravagant stops along the way.

Via Francigena

Via Francigena is one of the most iconic routes in all of Europe. Once known as the pilgrim route during the medieval times, the road that comes from Canterbury to Rome now serves as one of the most unique ways to travel through Europe. So put on your hiking shoes and get ready to explore the history of Europe one step at a time along the famous path.

The Romantic Danube

With many scenic landscapes along the Danube, with many under state or international protection, your romantic trip begins with a relaxing cruise.

Roman Thermal Spas

So-called because the ancient Romans often built settlements around them, the Roman thermal spas of Europe are actually naturally occurring warm springs. They’re perfect for relaxing and revitalizing after a day of exploring Europe. In Roman times, people gathered at the springs to meet people and socialize, and the same is still true today.

Pilgrimage routes and shrines of Western Europe

Why walking a pilgrimage route in Europe is the best way to truly experience rural splendor and spiritual bliss.

An Iconic Trip Through Europe

Europe is a place rich with history and culture. From Stonehenge in Great Britain to The Alps in Switzerland, the landmarks and sites of magnificent Europe will inspire your travels for years to come. Take it all in with a landmark trip through Europe on your next two-week getaway to some of Europe’s most iconic locations.

Choose your interests

Things to do, castles in europe that still rule.

Travel back to the Middle Ages with this photo gallery of the most breathtaking castles that still stand in Europe.

San Marino’s cultural heritage

Embark on a journey of historical wonders!

Cimadolmo White Asparagus

This tender asparagus is a spring delicacy. Highly appreciated for its delicate flavour and its diuretic properties.

Unforgettable Flavors of Europe

A visit to Europe is unforgettable in itself, but people often find themselves dreaming about all the delicious foods they tried, long after they’ve returned. From sweet to salty and every flavor in between, fondly remember your trip when you bring home a taste of Europe.

Central Europe

Outermost regions, iberian peninsula, #visiteurope, want to know more about europe.

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Be among the first to enjoy Europe's newest long-distance hiking trail

Hiking is a way of life in Europe. Thousands of miles of trails criss-cross the continent, traversing the undulating terrain over high passes and dipping into valleys. People who live in the mountains have long maximized the terrain to sustain their livelihood and connect villages by walking paths. It is no surprise, then, that new official routes are regularly being developed to maintain this aspect of mountain culture.

The Alpe Adria Trail is one of Europe’s newest long-distance hiking routes and has been designed to end at well-located accommodations with easy access to iconic regional cuisine. Our European hiking tour covers the highlights, beginning at the foot of Austria’s Grossglockner in an area that Austrians call "the Garden of Eden." The route continues into Slovenia’s Julian Alps, known for pristine mountain lakes and rivers. Finally, we cross into wine-growing regions before ending with an Italy tour through Trieste, a charming town on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Experience three different countries connected by a shared Alpine culture, each offering spectacular scenery that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Boundless Journeys specializes in all-inclusive active tours around the world. Discover more adventures in our small group Slovenia tour packages .

Austria, Slovenia, & Italy: Alps to the Adriatic Hiking Highlights

• Expand Experience the cuisine, language, and culture of three distinct countries
• Expand Exploring Hohe Tauern National Park, site of Pasterze Glacier and the Grossglockner
• Expand Hiking some of the most iconic stretches of the 460-mile long Alpe Adria Trail, selected to include diverse and breathtaking landscapes
• Expand Delighting in regional specialties such as Austria's schnitzels and strudels, Slovenia's jota stew, Italy's Aperol spritzes, and plenty of local cheese and wine along the way
• Expand Experiencing iconic landmarks including Pasterze Glacier, Garnet Gate, Vrsic Pass, Jasna Lake, and a gondola ride up Lussari Mountain

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

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Salzburg to Heiligenblut

• Activity Overview: Hiking
• Activity Level: Easy with minimal elevation gain and loss
• Activity Length: 2-3 hours hiking, 1.5 hours driving

We meet our guide for a briefing at 8:30 am in the lobby of the Sheraton Hotel in Salzburg before departing for Hohe Tauern National Park. Our journey takes us into the mountains along the High Alpine Road, one of the most picturesque Alpine roads in all of Europe. While the total transfer time will be about 90 minutes driving, we stop along the way to learn how the road was built, stretch our legs on short walks, and take in the stunning vistas — including the 360-degree views from the Edelweissspitze, the highest accessible point on the road.

After lunch (and perhaps, a dessert of fluffy Kaisershmarn), we continue to the charming little Alpine hamlet of Heiligenblut. Here, we have time to rest, enjoy the onsite sauna, or explore the village before gathering for our celebratory welcome dinner this evening.

Accommodations

National Park Lodge Heiligenblut, Austria

Located in the center of town and featuring panoramic views of the Grossglockner and nearby mountains, the National Park Lodge is built in a traditional chalet style typical of the region. Enjoy wood-accented interiors, a restaurant and bar, and a traditional Austrian spa.

Grossglockner & Pasterze Glacier

• Activity Level: Moderate, 1,135’ elevation gain and 1,870’ loss
• Activity Length: 4 hours, 5.5 miles

Following a hearty breakfast, we set off for the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Hohe information center and the official starting point of Alpe Adria Trail. The visitor center was named for the Kaiser, a great fan of the mountains, after he hiked to that spot from Heiligenblut to marvel at the Grossglockner — Austria's highest peak — in the mid-19th century.

After taking in the panoramic view of the tallest mountain in Austria ourselves, we hike down to Pasterze Glacier, the oldest remaining glacier in Austria. The descent is steep, on a mix of rocky singletrack trail and large steps. Hiking poles may be helpful here. At the bottom, we enjoy views of the glacier and a hike along the base of the Grossglockner, then return to Heiligenblut in the afternoon. Once again, there is time to walk around the village and enjoy the amenities of our lodge before dinner.

Millstatter Alps

• Activity Level: Moderate, 1,500' elevation gain and loss
• Activity Length: 3 hours hiking, 5-6 miles, 2 hours driving

This morning, we transfer south to Millstatter Lake and the adjacent resort town of Millstatt. In the hills above town, we first stop at Lammersdorfer Hut, known for their local delicacies. After enjoying a taste of their cheeses and cured meats, we follow a dirt trail through idyllic cow pastures to Garnet Gate, where we are rewarded with a beautiful vista above the fjord-like lake. We continue our hike along the Path of Love and end back at Lammersdorfer Hut.

This evening, we enjoy the accommodations of Naturhotel Alpenrose, a very unique and relaxing place. This family-run hotel makes their own delicious pastries and strudels, and we have time this evening to enjoy the patio and sauna. Please note this hotel does not have Wi-Fi, which may allow you to have a brief digital detox.

Naturhotel Alpenrose Millstatt, Austria

This family-run hotel above Lake Millstättersee is surrounded by lush meadow, gardens, and forest. The property was built and is operated with a nature-oriented philosophy; food is grown nearby by local farmers, there is no Wi-Fi, and the building was constructed using locally-sourced, sustainable materials.

Vrsic Pass, Kranjska Gora

• Activity Level: Moderate, 1,300’ elevation gain and loss
• Activity Length: 3-4 hours hiking, 3.7 miles, 1 hour driving

Today, we bid auf wiedersehen to Austria and zdravo (hello) to Slovenia! We drive up to Vrsic Pass, the highest pass in Slovenia, to the start of our hike on the "old Vrsic trail" — a historic trail used by hunters and smugglers. Flanked by larch trees, the dirt and grass path climbs gently upward toward the craggy limestone cliffs of the Julian Alps. At the top, we stop for lunch at a hut where we can savor traditional Slovenian stews and struklji — a sweet dough rolled with fruit that is still made by hand here.

Returning to Kranjska Gora, we take a short walk around the idyllic, crystal-clear Lake Jasna before transferring just over an hour to our small, family-run boutique hotel. We enjoy dinner together at the onsite restaurant, run by young progressive chefs who are part of the Jeune Restaurateurs Europe. They choose the best local ingredients of the season and include the culture and traditions of Austria, Italy, and Slovenia in their culinary creations.

Hotel Skipass Kranjska Gora, Slovenia

Located at the edge of Triglav National Park in the lovely Alpine town of Kranjska Gora, the Hotel Skipass is an embodiment of warmth and hospitality. With views of the mighty peaks of the Julian Alps from the hotel, it is the ideal starting point for a hiking adventure.

Monte Lussari, Laghi di Fusine

• Activity Level: Moderate with strenuous sections, 1,750’ elevation gain and loss
• Activity Length: 4-5 hours, 6-7 miles

We cross into nearby Tarvisio, Italy this morning and take a 15-minute gondola ride up to Monte Lussari, a popular ski mountain in the winter. From the top, we have a grand view of the Julian Alps as we follow the pilgrims' path to the mountaintop village.

Our hike departs from here and climbs toward Cima del Cacciatore. The rocky path is primarily uphill single track, with some exposed sections along the way. We end at the col below Cima del Cacciatore, with spectacular views looking out over the surrounding mountains and valley. Our route in reverse is primarily downhill on the same trail, and we stop for lunch before our return gondola ride down the mountain.

This afternoon we explore more of the Friuli region, transferring to the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Laghi di Fusine. Here, we walk along an easy dirt trail that circumvents the lake, with numerous photo opportunities of the idyllic landscape. Dinner is free to enjoy independently this evening, with time to explore the Alpine resort town of Kranjska Gora.

• Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous
• Activity Length: Easy, 331’ elevation gain and 750’ loss

Our excursion today brings us to yet another pristine body of water — the Soca River. We hike along a trail that follows the undulating river and wends in and out of dense forest, where the sound of rushing water adds to our immersive nature experience.

Toward the end of our hike, we stop for lunch at an agriturismo known for their sheep cheese and delicious, traditional Jota stew made with sauerkraut, beans, and potatoes. Each cook has their own take on the recipe, but it is a signature dish of the region.

Our day ends at a village on the border between Slovenia and Italy, in Brda wine region, known for outstanding wine. Before dinner this evening, we have a chance to sample some local wine while overlooking the landscape where it was grown.

Hotel Gredic Brda, Slovenia

Gredic is a boutique hotel combining rich history and modern influences brought to life by its dedicated team. This hidden treasure of Brda is distinguished by its exemplary service & amenities, as well as its spectacular location, where you will find relaxation and privacy in a picturesque setting.

Valley di Rosanda to Trieste

• Activity Level: Easy, 750’ elevation gain and loss
• Activity Length: 2 hours, 4 miles

Our last hike together will be in the Valley of Rosanda. The landscape is markedly different here than in other areas we have traversed. The lower elevation brings considerably more plant diversity and lusher vegetation. We end the more active portion of our day in the town of Trieste, which was an important hub for coffee import in the country. Nowadays it is home to the famous espresso company, Illy.

We have some time to sit back and celebrate our adventure with an espresso, Aperol Spritz, or gelato on Piazza Unita overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Our final celebratory dinner tonight will be full of fresh ingredients and authentic Italian flavors.

Hotel Excelsior Savoia Trieste, Italy

The Hotel Excelsior Savoia remains an emblem of the majesty, sophistication and peerless style that distinguished the first grand hotels at the end of the 19th century. Overlooking the sea, this hotel is the perfect way to end our trip.

The tour ends after breakfast. There will be one group transfer to Trieste Airport.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.

Dates And Prices

Trip length.

Jul 12-19, 2025

Aug 30-Sep 6, 2025

2025 Land Cost

From $ 6,495 Per Person

Single Supplement

First one reserved: $ 995

Additional $ 1,495

See single supplement policy below .

Pricing Notes

MAKE IT PRIVATE

Call for pricing 1-800-941-8010 or email [email protected]

What's Included

• Expert leadership
• All accommodations
• All meals as noted on the itinerary
• Local wine and beer with dinners
• All on-tour transportation
• All activities as noted in the itinerary
• All gratuities except for those for your guide(s) and driver, which are at your discretion
• Explorers Club savings on your next scheduled, small-group trip (conditions apply)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT:  Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.

Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.

If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).

Single Supplement for Custom Tours . Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.

What To Expect

Physical activity.

It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip, and consult your doctor regarding any concerns. The more prepared you are for the activities, the more you will enjoy yourself. As a general guideline, we suggest regularly engaging in aerobic activities (such as walking, jogging, or cycling) in the months leading up to the trip. If you live in a flat area, try to incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability. Of course, nothing can beat training by hiking! We recommend spending consecutive days on your local trails whenever possible in preparation for your journey. Please contact us if you have any doubts regarding your physical match with this tour.

Meeting point

Salzburg, Austria

Departure point

Trieste, Italy

Traveling to and from

Most Convenient Airport for Arrival: Salzburg Airport, Salzburg, Austria (SZG) Most Convenient Airport for Departure: Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport, Trieste, Italy (TRS)

In an alpine environment, weather is variable throughout the day and by elevation. A warm, sunny day in the valley can be anywhere from pleasantly cool to downright brisk at higher elevations. Therefore, dressing in layers will be essential to your comfort. Rain is possible at any time, and weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so having rain gear on hand is advisable. The sun is strong at higher elevations, and therefore adequate precautions should be taken to prevent sunburn, even on cool, sunny days. In general, this trip moves from higher to lower elevations, so you can likely expect warmer temperatures toward the end.

Heiligenblut

High: 64 Low: 44

High: 67 Low: 47

Kranjska Gora

High: 69 Low: 46

High: 72 Low: 49

High: 73 Low: 50

High: 76 Low: 53

High: 78 Low: 64

High: 81 Low: 67

The Alpine countryside is dotted with small family farms, and food is often organically grown. Cuisine in this region is influenced by the food culture of all three neighboring countries of Austria, Slovenia, and Italy. Of course, notable regional specialities will be highlighted along the way, including wiener schnitzel and strudels in Austria, Slovenian jota stew and traditional struklji, and pasta and gelato in Italy, to name just a few. Lunches will be primarily in mountain huts, and feature soups, stews, and pasta dishes. Our evening meals are usually enjoyed at our hotels, or at some of the best restaurants in the area. Dinners typically include local cheeses and wines, pasta, fish, meat, and salads.

Please call our office with any questions or concerns about our ability to meet your needs.

Featured Guides

Mitja Kamplet

Mitja's interests cover all types of terrain, from mountains and seas to rivers and ski slopes! He loves the wilderness, secret trails, and secluded bays and is happiest when surrounded by amazing landscape and good people.

Mitja has been guiding for several years in addition to working as a civil engineer. He guides in his home country of Slovenia, in neighboring countries on the Balkan peninsula, and in the Austrian and Italian Alps. When off season in Europe, he guides trekking tours in Patagonia and explores the wildernesses of Greenland and Himalayas. While usually in hiking boots or on skies, Mitja is also an avid reader and photographer, and enjoys showing guests viewpoints for great photos while on tour.

About Our Guides

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

• Departure Dates: Jul 12-19, 2025 Aug 30-Sep 6, 2025

Croatia & Montenegro: Treasures of the Dalmatian Coast

We begin our Montenegro and Croatia tour exploring Split, then spend time exploring Dalmatian islands, hiking through olive groves and pine forests and kayaking over crystal-clear seas. We’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Split, Korcula, and Dubrovnik, and...

Slovenia: Julian Alps to the Coast

From Slovenia’s picture-perfect Lake Bled, we set out on thrilling hikes into the remote corners of the Julian Alps, a mountain lover’s paradise. Next, we head south towards the wine country of Brda. As we leave the alpine region, the...

Moderate hiking with some strenuous sections, 3-6 hours per day

• Group Size: 4-16 Guests

Make it Your Own!

This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.

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Legendary trail Route 66: Lugano Bike

Top 5 croatian coastal destinations for cyclists, lombardy by bike: 5 family-friendly routes, montenegro: top biking trail the stories by the water, cycling in croatia: tours, routes, regions, races & islands, the alpe adria cycle path: from the city of mozart to the adriatic sea.

From the Glacier to the Sea

T he Alpe Adria Cycle Path (Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radweg, hence the acronym CAAR), a cross-border long-distance cycle route linking Salzburg, on the northern side of the Alps, to Grado, a well-known Italian tourist and thermal center, overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

• Start location: Salzburg (Austria)
• Destination: Grado (Italy)
• Distance: 415 km
• Ascent: 5410 m
• Descent: 5804 m
• Multiday route: 8 days
• Direction: One way
• Surface: asphalt/aggregate surface
• Time required : 30H (A safe and relaxing bike trip)
• Difficulty: Medium

The path, by integrating old railway tracks and numerous tunnels, makes the Alpine crossing a pleasure tour on two wheels – with culture, sport, and cuisine.

Crossing the Alps by bike is a dream for many cyclists. And thanks to the perfectly prepared Alpe Adria bike path, you don’t even have to be a top athlete to master this tour. In just one week, it takes you from Mozart’s hometown Salzburg in Austria to the Italian Mediterranean Coast.

Make your way from the Gastein Valley to Böckstein , where a train takes you to Mallnitz on the other side of the Gamskarlspitze mountain range in just 11 minutes. Out in the open again, the bike path is winding through the Austrian county of Carinthia .

Once in Italy, you will pass Tarvis, Gemona, Undine, and Aquileia on your way to Grado on the Adriatic shore. Idyllic spots, beautiful tourist sights and impressive landscapes will accompany you on your trip to the South. One thing is for certain: every cyclist deserves a delicious gelato at the end of their trip, as well as a refreshing jump into the Adriatic Sea.

Eight cycling stages connect the city of Mozart to the Adriatic Sea. The Alpe Adria cycle path, by integrating old railway tracks and numerous tunnels, makes the Alpine crossing a pleasure tour on two wheels – with culture, sport and cuisine.

This itinerary is considered one of the most heterogeneous and scenographic cycling routes in Europe and offers continuous surprises for cyclists. You will cycle through pleasant towns, medieval villages and characteristic villages, riding along the banks of placid rivers and foaming streams that sometimes disappear into wild ravines. Alpine landscapes, peaceful villages and a host of sights will accompany you on your journey, while more than 20 tunnels will assist you on your journey, making an Alpine crossing an undertaking that requires a more manageable amount of energy.

The Alpe Adria Radweg cycle route has won awards “Best Cycle of the Year 2015” during the active tourism fair in Amsterdam and the “Oscar of Cycle tourism” at the Cosmobike in Verona in 2016.

From the suggestive alpine valleys, rich in woods and dominated by high mountains , we descend towards the fertile Friuli plain and the sunny Mediterranean beaches . While cycling along this path you will surely be fascinated by the continuous succession of natural wonders, historical monuments, rich popular culture and typical dishes of the regions crossed.

There is therefore no wonder that the number of cyclists who choose this track for their cycling holidays is increasing year after year!

You do not have to worry about transport from Grado back home to Carinthia and Salzburg. The Alpe Adria bike path runs almost continuously along the railway line . If required, various sections can be covered by train at any time. The “Micotra train ” connects the cities of Udine and Villach with its own bike carriage, offering a special service for every cyclist.

The Alpe Adria Cycle Trail is not only a perfect example of the good cooperation between the three states of Salzburg, Carinthia and Friuli–Venezia Giulia . It is also a practical example of how to get to know the culture and cuisine of three states within just a few days: today you can start with Salzburger Nockerl dessert, then enjoy the cuisine of the Carinthian Alps and Adriatic on the next day, followed by Italian delicacies in a trattoria in Tarvis, Udine or Grado.

STAGE 1: Salzburg-Bischofshofen 53 km

The first stage begins in the middle of the magical Old City of Salzburg City of Mozart, leading you on a leisurely ride southwards next to the River Salzach, and into the mountains of Salzburg’s Limestone Alps, past numerous natural monuments, high rock faces and impressive gorges.

We begin our stage on Mozartplatz square, in the heart of Salzburg’s beautiful Old City. The entire route of this stage is alongside the River Salzach.

We come to the old Celtic city of Hallein, and can also enjoy the refreshing waters of Golling Waterfall and beautiful Bluntautal valley. After a short climb, we cycle past the Salzachöfen, the point where the Salzach slices impressively through the rocks of the

Tennengebirge massif. Then we enter a narrow canyon leading to Hohenwerfen Castle, a picturesquely situated, medieval castle between the mountains of the Tennen- and Hagengebirge. Now the valley broadens and we reach Bischofshofen , the end of this first stage. Along the way are numerous natural monuments and sights, inviting us to pay them a visit and enjoy a well-earned refreshment break.

STAGE 2: Bischofshofen – Bad Gastein 52 km

The second stage takes us initially alongside the reservoirs on the middle Salzach to Schwarzach, then tackles a climb before entering the Gastein Valley. A bike path leads us from the entrance to the valley to Bad Gastein, a magnificent location with Gastein Waterfall in the center of town.

Our constant companions are the mountains of the Salzburg Alps. In Gastein Valley, views of the glaciated peaks of the Hohe Tauern mountains reveal themselves before our eyes.

From Bischofshofen to Schwarzach, we continue to enjoy a leisurely bike ride alongside the Salzach, which, at this point, is mostly regulated by dams. Along the way, we pass the county seat of St. Johann im Pongau – a detour to the might, neo-Gothic “Pongau Cathedral”, standing in the middle of the Oberer Markt, is always rewarding.

Between Schwarzach and the village of Klammstein at the entrance to Gastein Valley, we have to tackle a vertical gain of 200 meters. Since we also have to ride through a 1.5 km-long tunnel at the start of Gastein Valley, we can also take the train or a bike taxi for this section.

With no climbs worthy of note, our continued bike ride through the valley is truly enjoyable, bringing us first to Dorfgastein, then on to the heart of the famous spa town, Bad Hofgastein. From here, we keep to the banks of the Gasteiner Ache to Bad Bruck. The imposing backdrop of the world-famous spa town which surrounds the Gastein Waterfall comes closer and closer into view. The last few meters in Bad Gastein are then steeply uphill.

STAGE 3: Bad Gastein – Mallnitz-Spittal an der Drau 59 km

This stage begins in Gastein Valley or Mallnitz (depending on when you prefer to use the Tauernschleuse motorail service).

After the Tauernschleuse, we find ourselves in Carinthia, one of Austria’s most important tourism regions, located on the southern side of the Alps. On this stage, the Alpe-Adria Bike Tour generally takes us through the Lower Mölltal valley, nestled amidst some 3,000-meter tall mountains of the Reisseck Group to the north and the Kreuzeck Group to the south of the valley.

Outstanding sightseeing attractions and rewarding stopping-off points include the town center of Obervellach, Falkenstein Castle, Bernitz Waterfall, the Kreuzeck lift, Barbarossa Canyon, a rest area on the shores of the Möllstausee in Mühldorf, and the Teurinia Roman Museum outside Spittal. In the county seat of Spittal itself, we find the beautiful Renaissance Schloss Porcia, the Museum of Folk Culture, and the always-popular town park.

STAGE 4: Spittal an der Drau – Villach 39 km

At this stage, you will ride around 40 kilometers. Lots of small highlights await history buffs and nature lovers, such as the excavations of an early Christian church outside Molzbichl in the lower Drautal valley, the “Carantana” museum and Villach’s most popular mountain, the Dobratsch, located in a nature park of the same name.

Hot springs in Villach guarantee that even those with flagging spirits will quickly feel rejuvenated. In the summer 2012, Carinthia’s new Therme Warmbad-Villach will be opened, Austria’s most modern spa & aquatic experience. From Spittal, the Alpe-Adria Bike Tour takes us along the Drau Bike Path, which is well-developed and clearly marked. For most of this stage, our route keeps right on the banks of the river.

STAGE 5: Villach – Tarvisio 37 km

This stage takes us mainly alongside the Gail, on the southern side of the Villacher Alpe, and in parts also through Dobratsch Nature Park. Pedaling through small villages, we gradually approach the Italian border, which we cross at Thörl-Maglern.

Following an abandoned railway line, just a few kilometers beyond the border and we come to Tarvisio, our northern starting point for the Val Canale.

STAGE 6: Tarvisio – Venzone 61 km

To Dogna the cycling route is well equipped with signs and runs mainly on the bike path that was built on the former disused railway Pontebbana. Currently, the cycle route is passable all the way to Dogna

After Dogna, the experienced cyclist moves towards the South, along the path that runs on National Road n.13. They will follow it till Chiusaforte and then until Resiutta.

At Resiutta the experienced cyclist will again use National Road No 13 and go on the bridge of Moggio Udinese. The town of Moggio is reached by crossing this bridge over the river Fella.

The experienced cyclist can use local roads and stretches of national and provincial roads to reach the mentioned places. Give you full attention to the stretches of the path that are shared with cars and at the main road crossings.

STAGE 7: Venzone – Udine 55 km

The experienced cyclist can use local roads and stretches of national and provincial roads to reach the mentioned places. Give full attention to stretches in promiscuity with the cars and at the point of crossing the main roads. Pay close attention to the stretches of road with close proximity to cars and at the main road crossings.

The cycling route, called “Ippovia of Cormor Valley”, is not paved with asphalt but is equipped with signs and runs along the Cormor river from Buja to the Parco del Cormor (Cormor Park) at the west of Udine.

For crossing the city of Udine experienced cyclists will use part of the ordinary urban roads, and part of the existing cycling road.

STAGE 8: Udine – Grado 59 km

For crossing the city of Udine experienced cyclists will use part of the ordinary urban roads, and part of the existing cycling road. The experienced cyclist to reach the places mentioned, you can use for the greater part of the local road network. Give full attention to whether paths in promiscuity with the cars and at the point of crossing the main road.

The cycling route which is equipped with signs that run partly on a bike path and partly on local roads; starts from the “Porta di Aquileia (Aquileia door)” of Palmanova and ends near the cross with the National Road No 14, at the entrance of Cervignano.

For crossing of Cervignano town, the experienced cyclist can use ordinary urban roads. The cycling route which is equipped with signs that run mostly on the bike is built on the former disused railway Cervignano-Grado.

To reach the center of Grado, the cyclist will follow a short stretch of Regional Road No. 352, paying the utmost attention to motorized traffic transiting.

• Road Routes

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