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3
moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self guided cycle and walk
Accommodation
  • 9 nights hotels
Meals
  • 9 Breakfasts

10 Days£1820GBP

Overview

Trip Code: ISH

Trip highlights


  • Exploring the pretty alpine towns of Innsbruck and Salzburg
  • Hiking the Austrian Alps and visiting the Krimmler Waterfalls
  • Cycling through the changing landscape of the Zillertal Valley
  • Soaking up the warm hospitality of family run hotels en route

The Austrian Alps high above Innsbruck lend themselves to mountain hiking whilst the valleys connecting alpine towns en route to Salzburg are ideal for cycling. This is a trip which combines both activities to ensure you get the most out of the region. From the ski town of Innsbruck to the historic town of Salzburg there are numerous natural and cultural attractions. Hike to one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, pass tiny ski villages in the Zillertal Valley, take a guided tour of the Moserboden dam or visit an old salt mine or beer brewery. At night soak in the hospitality of our specially chosen hotels whilst dining on local culinary delights.

Countries:

Austria

Starting Point:

Innsbruck

Finishing Point:

Salzburg


On arrival in Innsbruck, walk to your hotel which is ideally located to explore the sites of this lively town such as the castle, old town section and the ski jumping station.

Meals:  Nil

This morning you take the tram from Innsbruck, followed by a cable car which takes you up to 2000m/6562ft. From the top of the cable car station you follow an easy high trail passing old stone pines high above the Inn valley. Enjoy refreshments at a mountain hut where you can purchase fresh cheese, and later descend by cable car and return to your hotel by bus. Walking distance: 7.7km/4.8mi

Meals:  B

This morning you swap your hiking boots for a bike and follow the cycle trail along the Inn river out of the city. This well signed trail takes you past historic towns where you can visit the famous Swarovski crystal world in Wattens or take a rest in the old streets of the many villages you pass. On one side you will see the Alps and on the other side the Karwendel mountain range. Stay overnight at the entrance of the Zillertal valley.

Meals:  B

The route this morning gradually ascends into the Zillertal valley, famous for skiing all year round at the glacier, to the village of Zell am Ziller. The valley offers much more than skiing, with its incredible scenery, alpine pastures and little villages with good restaurants. If you're making good time and wish to do the longer cycle, you can do a loop ride from Zell am Ziller to Mayrhofen, the main village in the valley. From Zell am Ziller, transfer after lunch over the Gerlos Pass to Krimml (approx. 30 mins duration). On arrival in Krimml you will still have time to walk to the waterfalls.

Meals:  B

On foot today you will pass the Krimml waterfall (one of the highest in Europe) on your way into the national park, which has trails to reach viewpoints and explore the different levels of the falls. Armed with your map, you can explore deeper into the valley to the edge of the Alps. The mountain hut “Tauernhaus” is the starting point for trails which lead over the Alps eg, the trans alp trek. We recommend taking a taxi into the valley and walking back to Krimml passing by the waterfall from above! You will mainly walk along a nice gravel road with fantastic views. Overnight Krimml. Walking distance: 11.4km/7m

Meals:  B

Back on the bikes today as you follow the Salzach river valley almost from the source, with impressive mountain ranges on both sides of the wide valley. There are many side trips you can take into the National Park of Hohe Tauern and we highly recommend a visit of the park's information centre. Mt Kitzsteinhorn is one of 266 peaks over 3000m/9843ft located in this wild alpine park, Austria's oldest national park. The cycle continues to the old market town of Zell am See with its wonderful lakeside position and views of the highest mountain in Austria, the Grossglockner (3798m/12,461ft).

Meals:  B

Outside of skiing in winter, there is no better way to see Zell am See-Kaprun than on foot. The spectacular combination of glacier, mountains and lake is nothing short of unique and guarantees unforgettable insights into Austria's natural environment. Discover the two high mountain reservoirs Mooserboden and Wasserfallboden, embedded in the impressive mountains of the Hohe Tauern and enjoy the great views at 2000m altitude. A bus takes you straight up into the heart of the alpine world. There is also the option to do a guided dam tour which includes a hike to the Mooserboden dam where you have the opportunity to explore inside the dam and learn how “green” electricity is generated. Walk the herbal path (45mins, 237m/778ft ascent) from the Mooserboden reservoir to rustic Fürthermoaralm to see the unique vegetation of the Hohe Tauern mountains. Overnight Zell am See.

Meals:  B

Cycling again, you take a route around the lake and later pass small hamlets with old farm houses. There will be some hills in the morning and a sensational view to the so-called Stony Sea Mountain range. In the afternoon you will pass some impressive gorges (open to visit) and a huge cave before arriving at Lofer, where you stay tonight.

Meals:  B

Continuing along the river Saalach the cycle takes in a small part of Bavaria. The mountains are not as high as on previous days but form a part of the National park of Berchtesgaden. Cycle through the spa city of Bad Reichenhall where you can visit the old salt mine, have a break in the old town or visit a brewery. Afterwards you are almost in Salzburg and you should visit the open air museum of Grossgmain with old farm houses. For lovers of the movie 'The Sound of Music', you pass a castle with a lake which featured in the film. Welcome to Salzburg!

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 9 breakfasts - Continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, meats, cheeses, coffee, tea and juices.
  • 9 nights in 3-4 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • 24 speed bike with panniers, lock, helmet and repair kit (e-bikes available - supplement applies)
  • Information pack including route notes, maps per room booked (GPS data files)
  • Transfer Gerlos Pass including bike (day 4)
  • Tourist card Krimml (free or reduced prices in local sights)
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Innsbruck and from Salzburg
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Transfers not noted as included ie: train Zell am See - Hochfilzen (optional on day 8), optional reservoir excursion or cable car Zell/See, bus Tulfes, taxi Zell/See and taxi Krimml (optional), Cable cars - Innsbruck / Glunzeger
  • Transfers not listed included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Guide - this is a self guided holiday
  • GPS device - can be rented - supplement applies
  • Local hotel taxes €1-€5 per person per night
  • Excess luggage
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Suitability

moderate

3

The trip is graded moderate (grade 3) with 5 cycle stages of between 25 and 65km (15.5 to 37m), and 3 walking stages of up to 4.5hrs. You mainly follow river cycle trails and there are only short ups and downs. There will be a transfer for the only mountain pass on the tour. The walking is not arduous, and is generally on gravel roads or hiking trails. To get the most out of this trip you should have a good level of fitness which you have obtained through exercising 3-4 times per week as a minimum.


Departure dates

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday from 16 Jun to 176Sep

Notes

DN1
High season is 1 Jul to 26 Aug - supplement applies.
DN2
This trip is suitable for solo travellers - single traveller surcharge applies. If other travellers booked on same date single supplement only applies. Option to rent a GPS device - supplement applies.

Priceper person from

£1820GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • GPS rental device (per GPS)GBP£60
  • e-bike supplementGBP£100
  • Single supplementGBP£330
  • Solo Traveller SupplementGBP£570
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.