The route departs from Sillian in East Tyrol, only a few kilometers out from the origin of Drau River and from the Italian border. After visiting the enchanting Goblin Park, you’ll cycle through scenic Pustertal Valley until you reach Lienz, the lovely capital of East Tyrol, with its lively town square, cobbled lanes and historic buildings. Don’t miss out on visiting the Aigner Badl Bath in Abfaltersbach, lofty Gallitzenklamm Gorge, and mighty Bruck Castle. Your journey continues through the „Carinthian Gateway“ on natural trails into Upper Drau Valley. Having passed Sachsenburger Klause Defile, the Drau Valley widens and opens and you’ll reach the town of Spittal. Porcia Castle, noted for being one of Carinthia’s most beautiful Renaissance structures, plays host to Comedy Plays each year during the warm summer months. The Drau Cycle Path continues along Paternion Castle to Villach. There you will swap your bike for a boat: Get aboard MS Landskron for a memorable cruise of the Drau River. Traveling the cycle ways of Carinthia, mostly along river banks and lakesides, is the best way to get to know the country. Faaker See Lake, Wörthersee Lake and the Carnic Cycle Trail through Gailtal Valley are viable options for avid cyclists. Continuing cycling along the Drau River you’ll get into Rosental Valley. In Ferlach you are recommended to visit the nearby Tscheppaschlucht Ravine. The legendary environs of Saager Castle have inspired many artists to take up residence in this lovely area. Stein is the departure point for an adventurous outing to Klopeiner See Lake where you can take a refreshing plunge. The cycle path continues down to Neudenstein Bird Sanctuary, leading to the huge Drau Reservoir in Völkermarkt. Then the route meanders through Jauntal Valley to Lavamünd – your place for the night. The awesome beauty of this cultural landscape is best explored by cycling the South-Carinthian Theme Trails. And those who don’t want to give up pedal-power yet are strongly recommended to cycle on to Maribor, Slovenia. It’s definitely worth the efforts.

SPECIAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Kaernten Card is your key to over 100 sights and attractions along the way, including swimming pools, museums, Drau River boating, Froeg Celtic World, Rosegg Zoo, Tscheppa Gorge, …The Card is available at Euro 36.00 for adults and at Euro 15.00 for kids (ages 6 to 16); it is valid for a two week period. Plenty of accommodation options provide special facilities for cyclists with Drau Cycle Path’s Cyclists Welcome Scheme.