At a Glance
Discover the bewildering secrets of the famous ‘The Sound of Music’ land as you cycle along the breathtaking Austrian Lake District. Unearth the Five Lakes of Mondsee, Attersee, Traunsee, Hallstattsee to Wolfgangsee as you traverse charming alpine villages and entrancing culture of this picture-postcard region on this 8 day cycling adventure.
Your adventure begins in Salzburg, the city of Mozart. Ride to the famous Salzach River out of Salzburg, the market village of Eugerndorf, the rock massif of Drachenewand, and to Lake Mondsee. Pedal to the deep-green coloured and largest lake in Salzkammergut, Lake Attersee. Make your way along the River Traun to Bad Ischl a town buttered in pure natural ambience and known with its imperial past. Marvel at the exclusive five-star natural lake, Lake Hallstatt and unearth the UNESCO ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 7 nights accommodation in 4-star hotels on a twin share basis
- All breakfasts
- Management by a local Headwater-appointed agent
- Route directions and maps for a convenient trip
- All Luggage transfers between hotels
- High quality bikes (e-bike available at additional cost)
- Luggage transfers between hotels
Itinerary
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Making your own way from the airport, your adventure begins in the magnificent city of Salzburg, which borders the mighty country, Germany; and is pierced by the Salzach River. It is nestled in pure natural scenery. Arrive in Salzburg in time for your welcome briefing and bike fitting. Your accommodation for today is a 4-star hotel in Salzburg. Settle in and make yourself at home. Head to the restaurant for a delectable meal showcasing the intricate flavours of Austrian culture. If you’d prefer a more active rest of your day, head to the beautiful Mozart town and experience some of its beauty firsthand. Explore the Altstadt Salzburg, Salzburg’s Old Town. See the plenty art galleries, jewellery and craft workshops, and boutique shops. Traverse the magnificent Hohensalzburg Fortress, a picturesque fortress that stands tall, dominating the city’s skyline with all its history. After a splendid day of adventure, make your way to your home for the night, a family run 4-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Salzburg. Settle into your unique designed room exuding elegance at every turn. You can make your way to the hotel’s spa for a heavenly massage in the hands of expert masseurs (at own expense). Or, venture to the lounge area with a tasty beverage and marvel at the view overlooking the rooftops of Salzburg. |
Hotel & Villa Auersperg, Salzburg
Breakfast |
Level 3, Approx. 40 km (25 miles), 3-5 hours biking Fuel with a hearty breakfast before you venture along the famous Salzach River out of Salzburg. Peddle your way out of Salzburg with an escort of wind and beauty. The route will lead to the disused Ischler railway until you reach the town of Eugendorf, a small market town northeast from Salzburg. From there, you will continue cycling across lush meadows, through nature's ambience to Thalgau. You will also be moved when you ride through the foot of Drachenwand, an impressive rock formation that stretches all the way to Lake Mondsee. The lakeside cycle path will then lead you into the centre of the town of the same name, Mondsee. The town is home to the mediaeval Mondsee Abbey, whose cloister church was used for the site of the wedding in the famous film "The Sound of Music." Your home for today is the 4-star Schlosshotel Mondsee, Nestled in the heart of Mondsee, the Schlosshotel Mondsee is a historic gem, once Austria’s oldest Benedictine monastery, transformed into a palace in 1810. Centrally located next to the medieval Mondsee Abbey, famed for its cloister church St Michael featured in The Sound of Music wedding scene, this unique 4-star hotel offers ultimate comfort and relaxation. |
Schlosshotel Mondsee, MondseeBreakfast  |
Level 3, Approx. 50 km (31 miles), 3-5 hours biking After the feel of yesterday's ride, get ready to navigate through beauty after a warm hearty breakfast. Today starts off with a ride along Lake Mondsee shores all the way to Lake Attersee also known as Kammersee. Lake Attersee is famous not only for being one of the largest lakes in Salzkammergut but it has an enticing deep-green colour and serves as home to both nature and celebrities. Paddle through Weyregg, a municipality in the district of Vöcklabruck embedded in elegant sceneries and then through Aurachtal, a perfect picture town in Germany with stunning views. You then make your way past Lake Traunsee, an epitome of real beauty to Gmunden, a town in Austria blessed with several landmarks and home of a major ceramic industry which you shall be graced to behold. You still have some distance to take in the experience before you reach Traunkirchen which is situated in Austria with beautiful landform and remarkable heritage. You are free to delight yourself in delicious recipes, spend the night in Traunkirchen and await tomorrow's treasures. A longer cycle route is also available. You’ll stay at the charming family-run 4-star hotel, The Hotel Post Am See. The hotel has been owned by the Gröller family since 1950. Tradition and hospitality were thus continued. he Hotel Post Am See has always been closely connected to the the Traunkirchen monastery which has been an important part of its history. The foundation stones of today's hotel were laid in 1327 by the Benedictine nuns when the monastery was rebuilt after a fire. A guest house was built not far from the monastery to accommodate and feed the workers. The history of the 'Hotel Post' as a hospitable house is almost 700 years old. In 1773 the monastery was closed, but the hospitality in the later Hotel Post continued. Via new private owners, the house became an important post station on the way to the inner Salzkammergut. This gave its name to the later Hotel Post. |
The Hotel Post Am See, TraunkirchenBreakfast |
Level 3, Approx. 45 km (28 miles), 3-5 hours biking Enjoy a delightful breakfast for a headstart to this day's wonders. Warm up as you bike on a cycle path to take you to the edge of Lake Traunsee until you make your way to the saline town of Ebensee which is known for not just top rated beauty but its high level of trade. From there you will cycle along the calming river Traun until you get to Bad Ischl, a town buttered in pure natural ambience and known with its imperial past. Once you have crossed the health resort of Bad Goisern you'll finally have the chance to gaze on the exclusive five-star natural lake, Lake Hallstatt. As you cycle along the picturesque lake, you will be awestruck by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you alongside friendly locals to the lovely lakeside town of Hallstatt. You will spend the night at the heart of Hallstatt. You stay at Heritage Hotel, situated in the car-free historic centre of the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hallstatt in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut region. Heritage Hotel consist of three carefully renovated, historic townhouses to form a hotel.consisting of three historic buildings renovated to create a single structure of luxury. This breathtaking oasis offers views of Lake Hallstatt and also easy access into the town. |
Heritage Hotel, HallstattBreakfast |
Level 3, Approx. 40 km (25 miles), 3-5 hours biking Today you head back along the river Traun until you make your way into Bad Ischl. You should definitely make a stop at Cafe Zauner, the cafe has a long history, dating back to the 19th century and has hosted several dignitaries like Emperor Franz Josef. Stop to try some of its delicious treats and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Renergised, continue to cycle along Lake Wolfgang and balance with the harmony of the water. Enjoy the pleasing aura of your outstanding resort, the famous 'weißen Rossl', a 4-star resort that oozes uniqueness just as much as the surrounding mountain and Lake District. Soothe yourself with a relaxing massage in the spa, where your body and soul will be pampered. Later, make your way on your own to one of the restaurants to delight in exquisite cuisine. |
Weisses Rossl, St WolfgangBreakfast |
Today comes with a chance to ease yourself and ponder on your past journeys. You have a vast assortment of activities for a thrilling day on Austria's most famous lake. Embark on a cog railway up to the peak of the mighty mount Schafberg, which is situated in the Northern Limestone Alps with an elevation of 1783m. Be amazed at its green coat and pleasant aroma. This adventure is to be organised by yourself. From the top you have an astonishing view of the surrounding area. Another alternative is a boat ride (also organised by yourself). Spending a day swimming in the crystal blue waters of Lake Wolfgang can be a refreshing and invigorating way to have an active and enjoyable day. |
Weisses Rossl, St WolfgangBreakfast |
Level 3, Approx. 50 km (31 miles), 3-5 hours biking Today you ride along the bike path of St. Gilgen along the edge of the lake to witness scenic water views. From there you will have a one hour walk in the Tiefbrunnau locality, an ideal chance to interact and observe locals up-close, and unravel iconic heritage (your bike will be transported in the meantime). Afterwards, get on your bike and pedal to Lake Hintersee and through Strubklamm gorge, a monarch of pure nature with spiking tourist attractions. From there you head into Wiestal prolific valley. The ride through the Glasenbachklamm gorge is impressive and will bring you to Salzachtal valley which holds some interesting villages such as St. Koloman. Just before entering Salzburg, a stop at Schloss Hellbrunn is definitely worth your while. This Baroque villa of palatial size has attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world. Find out why up close. Your final destination is the festival and Mozart town of Salzburg, one of the largest and most prominent cities in Austria. Explore fortresses, Mozart’s Geburtshaus, the picturesque St. Peter’s Cemetery and Abbey and more. A train and tram are also available to take you to Gmunden, a city of great heights and remarkable vocation. Visit the town's pottery industry and meet the masterminds behind ceramic wonders. Uncover other iconic landmarks such as the Schloss Ort. Alternatively, simply unwind in the oasis of your hotel. |
Hotel & Villa Auersperg, SalzburgBreakfast |
Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before you bid farewell and make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Salzburg
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Salzburg. The nearest major airport is Salzburg Airport which has international and domestic flights from Salzburg in Austria.
- Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation in Salzburg making your own arrangements there. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
The weather here is comparatively stable, particularly during mid-summer. Temperatures are similar to those experienced in the UK and rainfall although relatively low is possible throughout the year.
The biking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1: Leisurely
If you can ride a bike and enjoy gentle exercise, these trips are an ideal introduction to a cycling adventure. No routes are entirely flat, so expect some short climbs and descents. Maximum daily height gain is approximately 985ft (300m). The average daily distance is 12mi to 25mi (40km to 70km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 32mi (50km). Longer days are often optional.
Level 3: Moderate
You need to be in good health and reasonably fit. Moderate trips are ideal for occasional/weekend cyclists or fitter riders looking for a more relaxed adventure. Off-road trips do not require experience. Expect average daily distances between 25mi and 43mi (40km and 70km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 62mi (100km).
Level 5: Challenging
Fitness is vital. Challenging trips require confidence in your ability and physical condition. They are equivalent to an extended period of cycling at home. Mountain biking experience is essential for Challenging off-road trips, as they will involve some technical riding. Expect average daily distances between 31mi and 56mi (50km and 90km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 75mi (120km).
Level 7: Tough
Experience of the trip’s cycling style is essential, with long days on the saddle and tougher terrain both on- and off-road. You need complete confidence in your fitness and technical ability to cope with difficult or steep terrains, rough surfaces and longer distances. Tough trips are ideal if you’re looking to test yourself. Expect average daily distances between 50mi and 62mi (80km and 100km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 100mi (160km).
Split grades
Where a trip falls between two grades, we use an intermediate or ‘split’ grade, for example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate).
The terrain along the banks of the lakes is completely flat. In-between the lakes is mainly hilly. Most of the tour is on cycle paths and on roads with little to no traffic from lake to lake. Only for a few short sections, cycling on busier roads is unfortunately unavoidable.
Much of the cycling is on the old river towpath which is now lovely, flat and surfaced; previously up to 60 horses strained to drag heavy cargo boats upstream against the powerful current! Today, dozens of farms and cafes offer waterfront lunch stops as you cycle between sun-baked villages and wayside stalls piled high with apples, peaches and plums. Most cycling days are completely flexible, as local boat and train services are excellent, cheap and cater brilliantly to cyclists.
Essential Equipment
- Waterproofs
- Warm jumper/fleece
- Suncream
- Water bottle (1 litre) you will be able to refill each day at the accommodation
- Please note that cycling helmets are compulsory in Austria for all customers under 12 yrs. As we are unable to provide these, we strongly recommend that you bring your own.
Extra bike accessories
You may like to bring your own pedals and saddle (excluding the seat post) or gel saddle cover to fit to the hire bikes. We encourage this, if it is your preference. However, please note that you are responsible for your own equipment, and removing your saddle/pedals at the end of the trip. We cannot guarantee the return of any bike parts left behind.Recommended Clothing
Padded cycling shorts (with loose ‘over-shorts’ where recommended), breathable clothing, and a lightweight waterproof/windproof top. Shoes with relatively stiff soles are better for biking, but are not essential unless you are cycling long distances. Most people want to carry certain items with them during the day while cycling, for this we recommend a large bum bag (fanny pack) or small close-fitting daysack.E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip at an additional cost. Please contact us to book.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
