Self-Guided Lake Tegernsee to Bled Alpine Crossing Bike Tour
This spectacular cycling tour crosses the Alps in six diverse stages, taking you from Lake Tegernsee in Bavaria all the way to the picturesque Lake Bled in Slovenia. The route combines dramatic Alpine landscapes with charming mountain villages, serene lakes, and memorable cultural sights.
Starting at the shores of Lake Tegernsee, the journey leads over the Achen Pass to the strikingly clear Lake Achensee, followed by a descent into the Inn Valley in Tyrol. Continuing through Wörgl and Hopfgarten, the trail reaches the peaceful Pillerseetal, with an overnight stay in Fieberbrunn. The following stage passes through Zell am See and ends in Fusch, located beneath the legendary Großglockner High Alpine Road.
A shuttle transfer then brings cyclists up to Fuscher Törl at 2,428 meters, where an impressive downhill ride begins through the beautiful Möll Valley to Obervellach. The tour continues along the Drau Valley across Carinthia to Villach. In the final stage, the route crosses into Slovenia, passing Kranjska Gora and the famous Planica ski jumping arena, before reaching Lake Bled. Surrounded by mountains and known for its island church, Lake Bled is a stunning and rewarding end point to this unforgettable Alpine adventure.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Tegernsee
Bled
moderate
73 km / 45 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Munich International Airport (MUC)
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Highlights

Großglockner High Alpine Road
One of the most spectacular mountain routes in Europe, offering dramatic views of Austria’s highest peak. The high-altitude scenery and long descents make this section a true highlight of the tour.

Obervellach Market Town
The historic market town of Obervellach charms visitors with its narrow streets, colorful facades, and traditional Alpine atmosphere. Set in the Möll Valley, it offers a relaxed and authentic stop after one of the most scenic stages of the tour

Alpine Lakes and Valleys
From Lake Tegernsee and Achensee to Lake Zell and Lake Bled, the route passes crystal-clear lakes and lush valleys. These landscapes provide scenic riding, peaceful rest stops through the journey.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Bad Wiessee | Hotel Rex (4-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Kramsach | Hotel Jagdhof (5-star) | B | 72 km / 45 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Fieberbrunn | Hotel Schöne Aussicht | B | 64 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Fusch | Hotel Post Fusch | B | 68 km / 42 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Obervellach | Landhotel Pacher | B | 77 km / 48 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Villach | Hotel Kramer | B | 77 km / 48 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Bled | Hotel Lovec (4-star) | B | 81 km / 50 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Bad Wiessee
Individual arrival at Lake Tegernsee and first overnight stay in the Tegernsee region. After arrival, take time to settle into your accommodation and soak in the serene lakeside atmosphere.
Enjoy a relaxed walk along the promenade, admire the Alpine surroundings, or unwind at a café overlooking the water. If time permits, you may explore the nearby town areas or simply rest and prepare for the cycling journey ahead. The peaceful setting of the Bavarian Alps provides the perfect start to this cross-Alpine adventure.

Day 2: Kramsach
Your cycling adventure begins along the shores of Lake Tegernsee, where shimmering blue waters reflect the surrounding Alpine peaks. The route leads through the picturesque village of Kreuth, renowned for its traditional Bavarian houses and its close connection to the unspoiled Weißachau Valley, a haven of natural beauty.
A steady climb follows towards Lake Achensee, the largest lake in Tyrol. Its striking emerald-green waters, framed by the dramatic peaks of the Karwendel Mountains, offer unforgettable panoramic views and perfect photo opportunities. After a refreshing pause by the lake, the route descends into the wide Inn Valley, providing long, enjoyable downhill stretches.
The day concludes in Kramsach, a culturally rich town famous for its centuries-old glassblowing tradition. Time permitting, you may visit the Tyrolean Farmhouse Open-Air Museum, which offers fascinating insights into rural Alpine life, or simply unwind and reflect on a rewarding first cycling stage.
Elevation: approx. +900m / -760m

Day 3: Fieberbrunn
The second cycling stage begins in Kramsach and follows the Inn River to the spectacular Kundl Gorge. A well-maintained cycling and hiking path winds through this narrow canyon, where towering rock faces and rushing water create an impressive natural setting. Leaving the gorge behind, the route continues through the broad and scenic Brixental Valley towards Hopfgarten, whose striking baroque parish church is visible from afar.
The ride then climbs gently towards Kitzbühel, the world-famous winter sports resort renowned for its charming old town, elegant streets, and historic buildings. From here, you continue to St. Johann in Tirol, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. The stage concludes in Fieberbrunn, a picturesque Alpine village celebrated for its warm hospitality and its idyllic location in the heart of the Kitzbühel Alps.
Elevation: approx. +900m / -760m

Day 4: Fusch
This stage starts in St. Johann in Tirol and leads through a peaceful valley towards Leogang. A recommended stop is the renowned Leogang Bike Park, where professional riders showcase impressive jumps and thrilling descents, an exciting spectacle even for non-riders. Towering above the village is the remarkable Jakobskreuz on the Buchensteinwand, an accessible summit cross with panoramic viewing platforms offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine landscape.
The route then continues to Zell am See, beautifully situated on the shores of crystal-clear Lake Zell and surrounded by imposing mountain peaks. A short break by the lake provides the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery before cycling onward into the Fuscher Valley. The day ends in Fusch, a charming mountain village located on the famous Großglockner High Alpine Road and considered the gateway to this legendary route, framed by the majestic peaks of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Elevation: 670m / 520m)

Day 5: Obervellach
This spectacular alpine stage begins in Fusch with a special highlight: a shuttle transfer that takes both cyclists and their bikes comfortably up to Fuscher Törl or even to the Hochtor Pass. At altitudes above 2,500 metres, breathtaking views open up across the Großglockner, Austria’s highest peak, and the surrounding high-Alpine landscape.
From here, an unforgettable downhill ride begins, leading towards Heiligenblut, a picturesque mountain village famous for its slender, pointed church set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. The descent continues through the wild and romantic Möll Valley, passing rushing mountain streams, waterfalls, and lush alpine meadows. The day concludes in Obervellach, a historic market town whose charming alleys and proximity to the Groppenstein Gorges provide a fitting and atmospheric end to this “queen stage” of the tour.
Elevation: +690m / -2400m

Day 6: Villach
The next stage follows the well-developed Alpe-Adria Cycle Path, leading from Obervellach through the scenic Drau Valley. Riding mostly downstream, the route passes through green meadows, small villages, and landscapes framed by the surrounding mountain ranges. In the distance, Lake Millstatt glistens amid gentle hills, offering the option of a short detour for those who wish.
Along the way, cultural highlights such as the historic old town of Spittal an der Drau and the impressive Porcia Castle, a fine example of Renaissance architecture, invite a stop. The route continues along the River Drau to Villach, where Mediterranean flair, charming streets, and the proximity to Carinthia’s famous lakes create a relaxed and memorable end to the day.
Elevation: 390m / 590m

Day 7: Bled
The final stage begins in Villach and follows the Alpe-Adria Cycle Path southwards along the River Gail through a lush green valley. Crossing the Italian border, you reach the charming mountain town of Tarvisio, where Mediterranean influences and a relaxed atmosphere invite you to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
Beyond Tarvisio, the route continues into Slovenia, passing through dense forests and gentle climbs until arriving at the impressive Planica Ski Jumping Arena an iconic landmark set amidst the dramatic scenery of the Julian Alps. Shortly afterwards, Kranjska Gora comes into view, a popular holiday resort known not only for winter sports but also for its welcoming cafés and magnificent summer mountain panoramas.
From here, the ride leads through the tranquil Radovna Valley within Triglav National Park. Gentle rivers, traditional alpine pastures, and the Zelenci Nature Reserve with its striking emerald-green springs create an idyllic setting for short breaks and memorable photo stops. The valley then opens into the Sava Valley, offering the first views of the shimmering Lake Bled. With its famous island church and castle perched high on a cliff, Lake Bled provides a truly spectacular finale to this cross-Alpine cycling journey. A celebration with the traditional Bled cream cake by the lakeshore is the perfect way to mark the successful completion of the tour.
Elevation: +900m / -910m
Day 8: Departure
Individual journey home or the option to extend your stay at Lake Bled, allowing time to further explore the area or simply relax and reflect on an unforgettable cycling adventure across the Alps.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hotel Rex (4-star)
A traditional lakeside hotel just minutes on foot from Lake Tegernsee, known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty breakfast buffet. Guests consistently praise its very good location and friendly service.

Hotel Jagdhof
A family-run Tyrolean hotel offering comfortable rooms, mountain views, and a traditional restaurant serving Austrian, Italian, and German cuisine.

Hotel Post Fusch
A cozy mountain hotel situated on the Grossglockner Road, offering classic Alpine rooms and a welcoming restaurant. Guests appreciate its friendly service and authentic Austrian ambience, with reviews reflecting strong overall satisfaction.

Landhotel Pacher
A well-liked landhotel in the historic market town, featuring comfortable rooms and local cuisine. It stands out with a high guest rating and a reputation for warm hospitality and excellent value.

Hotel Kramer
Hotel Kramer is a traditional, family-run hotel located in the alpine region, known for its warm hospitality and peaceful surroundings.

Hotel Lovec (4-star)
Hotel Lovec is a modern and comfortable hotel located close to Lake Bled and the town center. It offers easy access to the lake promenade, cafes, and main sightseeing spots.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $400
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $430
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Conway Cairon C 3.0 tief Gr.m or similar
Available at a surcharge

Conway Cairon C 3.0 Herren Gr.m or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
The tour starts in the Tegernsee region which is served by Munich Airport (MUC). From Munich Airport you can take a bahn to Munich Central Station, then regional train via Munich Central Station, with connections to stations such as Tegernsee and Gmund am Tegernsee.
Departure
The tour ends in Bled, Slovenia which is served by Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, approximately 35 km from Bled. You can take a taxi to Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport; which takes about 35–45 minutes. You can chose to depart by bus with regular bus connections via Ljubljana.
Bus services connect Bled with Ljubljana and other regional hubs, while rail connections are available via nearby stations with onward international links.
Weather
The cycling route from Lake Tegernsee to Lake Bled passes through diverse landscapes and changing altitudes, resulting in varied weather conditions from cool Alpine regions to warmer valleys and lakeside areas.
June to September are the best months for cycling, offering the most reliable weather, long daylight hours, and comfortable riding conditions. During this period, daytime temperatures generally range between 20–28°C in valleys and lakeside areas, while higher mountain sections experience cooler temperatures of around 10–20°C.
May and October provide good alternative conditions with milder temperatures of approximately 15–22°C, though cooler mornings, evenings, and occasional rainfall may occur.
April brings mixed and changeable weather, especially at higher elevations.
From November to March, winter conditions dominate, with cold temperatures, snow, and limited accessibility, making this period unsuitable for cycling.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Best
October
Good
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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