Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Self-Guided Salzburg and The Seven Lakes Salzkammergut Bike Tour

This scenic cycling tour through Austria’s breathtaking Salzkammergut region offers an enchanting blend of crystal-clear lakes, majestic alpine views, and charming cultural towns. Starting and ending in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, you’ll pedal through a landscape steeped in both natural beauty and imperial history. Each day reveals new wonders, from serene lake shores and fjord-like valleys to quaint villages and vibrant towns.

Your journey begins with a gentle introduction to the region, cycling past the dramatic Drachenwand cliffs to the shimmering waters of Lake Mondsee and then cruising by boat across Lake Wolfgang. You'll follow rivers and mountain-lined paths to Bad Ischl, once the summer retreat of Emperor Franz Josef, before reaching the deep blue Traunsee. Along the way, you’ll explore historic castles, indulge in traditional Austrian pastries, and visit towns like Gmunden and Mondsee, each with its own unique character.

The route leads you onward to the quiet Trumer Lake District, a lesser-known gem with crystal lakes and opportunities to swim or sample local brews. Throughout the tour, daily distances are moderate and allow plenty of time to pause, explore, and savor the surroundings.

The final leg brings you comfortably back to Salzburg, where your adventure began—this time enriched by the memories of scenic rides, boat cruises, lakeside views, and the cultural touchstones that make this region so captivating. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a leisure rider, this journey offers the perfect balance of activity, relaxation, and discovery in the heart of Austria.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Salzburg

Finish

Salzburg

Level

moderate

Avg. Daily Distance

43 km / 26 mi

Cycling Days

6

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Fly-Out

Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Highlights

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Cycling Across Lake Wolfgang

One of the highlights is a tranquil boat ride across Lake Wolfgang, passing emerald hills and charming villages like St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang, offering a peaceful, postcard-perfect view of the Salzkammergut

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Riding into Imperial Bad Ischl

Riding into Bad Ischl, we step into Austria’s imperial past—exploring Emperor Franz Josef’s summer residence, savoring Zauner pastries, and wandering streets once graced by royalty

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The Scenic Stretch of Traunsee to Attersee

This scenic route highlights Salzkammergut’s beauty, cycling past fjord-like Traunsee, Ort Castle, and along valley paths to Lake Attersee, offering stunning lake views and tranquil forested landscapes

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.

DayPlaceCasual+ InnsMealsDistanceActivity
DAY 1SalzburgHotel Amedia (4-Star)
DAY 2WolfgangseeHotel Weisser Bar (4-Star)B50 km / 31 micycling
DAY 3TraunseeLandhotel GrünbergB40 km / 25 micycling
DAY 4AtterseeHotel AlpenblickB40 km / 25 micycling
DAY 5MondseeHotel Krone (4-Star)B35 km / 22 micycling
DAY 6Trumer SeenlandHotel AltwirtB45 km / 28 micycling
DAY 7SalzburgHotel Amedia (4-Star)B45 km / 28 micycling
DAY 8Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Itinerary Image

Day 1: Salzburg

Welcome to Salzburg, a city where music, history, and elegance meet. Once you’ve settled into your hotel, take time to explore the city’s charming old town, stroll through Mirabell Gardens, or climb up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views. It’s the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of your journey.

Meals:
Accommodation: Hotel Amedia (4-Star)
Itinerary Image

Day 2: Wolfgangsee

Today you set off from Salzburg, cycling through the scenic countryside that inspired Mozart himself.

As you leave the city behind, the rugged silhouette of the Drachenwand guides your path toward the glittering shores of Lake Mondsee. You’ll ride past green meadows, sleepy villages, and mountain vistas before arriving in the charming lakeside town of St. Gilgen.

Here, you board a boat and glide across the waters of Wolfgangsee—an unforgettable way to end your first cycling day. As the boat docks, the lakeside serenity welcomes you. It’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
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Day 3: Traunsee

Today, you begin your morning with another peaceful boat ride across Lake Wolfgang, watching the early sun reflect on the water as alpine peaks rise in the distance.

On two wheels again, you ride to the imperial spa town of Bad Ischl. This town still echoes with the refined elegance of Emperor Franz Josef and Empress Sissi, and a stop at the famed Zauner pastry shop is practically a rite of passage. Then it's on through forested trails and riverside paths, following the River Traun toward Traunkirchen or Altmünster.

The route is easygoing and beautiful, with the mighty mountains mirrored in calm waters. Tonight, you rest near Lake Traunsee, where lakeside promenades and serene views provide the perfect end to a memorable day.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 40 km / 25 mi
Accommodation: Landhotel Grünberg
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Day 4: Attersee

Lake Traunsee stretches before you like a Norwegian fjord, cradled between dramatic mountains.

The ride begins with a visit to Gmunden, a town known for its charming ceramics and fairy-tale lakeside castle, Schloss Ort. From there, you roll through the peaceful Aurachtal valley where farmhouses and flower-covered meadows dot the landscape.

Soon, you arrive at the dazzling turquoise waters of Lake Attersee. If you're a fan of literature, make a short detour to Ohlsdorf to visit the former residence of Austrian writer Thomas Bernhard. The rest of the ride is a breezy lakeside journey along quiet roads. By the time you arrive at your accommodation, the fresh lake air and mountain backdrop will have completely won you over.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 40 km / 25 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Alpenblick
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Day 5: Mondsee

Today’s ride is pure bliss for lake lovers. You trace the edge of Attersee, following its shimmering shoreline through villages and valleys. After a short stretch through a narrow forested gorge, you suddenly emerge to the stunning views of Mondsee, framed by jagged peaks.

This lake is just as beautiful as it is historic—the basilica in Mondsee served as the wedding church in The Sound of Music. The town itself invites you to linger with its lakeside cafés, colorful facades, and relaxed atmosphere. There’s time to take a swim, rent a paddleboard, or simply sit back and enjoy the Salzkammergut’s peaceful charm. Today may be a shorter ride, but it’s rich with opportunities to soak in the scenery.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 35 km / 22 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Krone (4-Star)
Itinerary Image

Day 6: Trumer Seenland

Today's day promises to take you through the green heart of the Salzkammergut.

Leaving Mondsee behind, you pedal through meadows and along quiet lanes past Lake Irrsee, its glassy waters often shrouded in morning mist. Then come the lesser-known but equally lovely Trumer lakes—Grabensee, Mattsee, and Obertrumer See—each offering tranquil beauty and bird-filled marshlands. It’s a relaxed ride with plenty of picnic spots and photo opportunities.

Beer enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the Trumer Brewery, known for its crisp pilsner and innovative brewing methods. The pace is easy, giving you time to reflect on your journey through one of Austria’s most stunning and culturally rich regions.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 45 km / 28 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Altwirt
Itinerary Image

Day 7: Salzburg

Your final cycling day invites you to linger a little longer in the peaceful Trumer Seenland. With the lakes sparkling in the morning sun and the gentle hum of birdsong in the air, the ride begins in a calm and reflective mood. Several natural swimming spots tempt you for one last dip—don’t be shy to stop and enjoy the pure, clear waters.

Today’s route winds through lush countryside, charming villages, and open farmland as you make your way back to Salzburg. It’s a leisurely and scenic return, giving you time to fully absorb the tranquil beauty of this region.

The mountains of the Salzkammergut gradually recede in your rearview as Salzburg’s skyline comes into view once more. As you roll back into the city, you’ll feel a satisfying sense of completion—your journey has come full circle, and every kilometer has been filled with discovery.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 45 km / 28 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Amedia (4-Star)

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye—or perhaps not just yet. You’re welcome to extend your stay and continue exploring the baroque charm of Salzburg. Otherwise, you depart individually, carrying with you vivid memories of glittering lakes, alpine panoramas, and the joy of cycling through Austria’s most enchanting landscapes.

Meals:

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Single Supplement

From US $630

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $165



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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.

shuttle

A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.

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

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Bike Image

KTM Unisex Bike or similar

trekking

Included in your trip price

Bike Image

KTM Bike (Men) or similar

trekking

Included in your trip price

Bike Image

KTM Macina or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

Your tour begins in Salzburg.

International travellers can reach Salzburg easily through several major gateways.

The city’s own W.A. Mozart Airport (SZG) is located just 4 kilometres from the centre and offers direct flights from key European cities such as Frankfurt, Vienna, London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Zurich. From the airport, taxis and bus line 2 take around 15 to 20 minutes to reach the city.

Many overseas visitors choose to fly into Vienna International Airport (VIE), which handles daily long-haul flights from North America, Asia, and the Middle East. From Vienna, frequent trains run directly to Salzburg in about 2.5 to 3 hours, or you can take a short connecting flight.

Another convenient option is Munich Airport (MUC), one of Europe’s best-connected hubs, where regular train and shuttle services reach Salzburg in roughly 2.5 hours.

Departure

Your tour ends in Salzburg. Most travellers fly out via Salzburg Airport (SZG), located only 4 kilometres from the city centre and easily reached by taxi or bus line 2 in about 15–20 minutes. The airport offers regular flights to major European hubs such as Frankfurt, Vienna, Amsterdam, and Zurich, making onward international connections straightforward. Alternatively, you can travel by train to Vienna International Airport (VIE) or Munich Airport (MUC), both of which operate frequent long-haul flights to destinations worldwide. Trains from Salzburg to Vienna Airport take around 2.5–3 hours, while the journey to Munich Airport takes about 2.5 hours. Many travellers choose these larger hubs for greater flexibility and direct intercontinental options.

Weather

This region around Salzburg offers some of Austria’s most picturesque cycling routes, set against a backdrop of alpine peaks, glistening lakes, and charming villages. The best time to visit for cycling is from May to September, when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the landscapes are in full bloom. During these months, daytime temperatures typically range between 20°C and 28°C, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.

Spring (April–May) brings fresh greenery and fewer crowds, though occasional rain showers can occur. Summer (June–August) is perfect for long cycling days, swimming in crystal-clear lakes, and enjoying vibrant local festivals. Autumn (September–October) offers mild temperatures and golden scenery, making it another superb season for relaxed rides. While winter (November–March) transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, cycling routes may be limited due to cold weather and icy paths. Overall, late spring to early autumn promises the most comfortable and scenic conditions for a cycling journey through Austria’s breathtaking lake district.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Mixed

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Best

August

Best

September

Best

October

Good

November

Mixed

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:

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.

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.

Is proof of travel 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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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