Salzburg – Venice

Start in Salzburg

Salzburg – Bischofshofen, 36 mi. 58 km, (elevation 618 meters)

The ride from Salzburg to Bischofshofen leads you through stunning Alpine scenery. Leaving Salzburg—famous for its historic old town, Mozart’s birthplace, and the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress—you’ll follow the peaceful banks of the Salzach River. Along the way, you’ll pass the charming town of Hallein, known for its centuries-old salt mines, which operated until 1989. Take the opportunity to visit the local museum or the Celtic Museum, and don’t miss the cozy town center with its colorful houses.

Continue on to Golling, where you can explore the beautiful waterfalls above the village, a popular spot among locals. The stage ends in Bischofshofen, renowned worldwide for hosting the annual Four Hills Ski Jump Tournament.

Seeboden

Bad Gastein – Seeboden, 36 mi. 57 km (elevation 588 meters)

Cycle through the Gastein Valley toward Böckstein, where you’ll take the train through the Tauern Tunnel to Mallnitz. From Mallnitz, continue through the picturesque Seebach Valley, enjoying stunning views of the towering Alps. Descend via the Möll Valley toward Obervellach, where the medieval Falkenstein Castle rises dramatically above the landscape. Follow the Möll River to Spittal an der Drau, home to the magnificent Renaissance-style Porcia Castle, known for its beautiful courtyard and folklore museum. From Spittal, climb to Seeboden, located on the shores of Lake Millstatt (Millstätter See). With its steep shoreline and mountain surroundings, the lake has a fjord-like character. Sheltered from cold winds, the water can warm up to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

Valbruna

Stage 5: Villach – Valbruna, 26 mi. 43 km (elevation 612 meters)
The ride from Villach to Valbruna takes you through beautiful mountain scenery. From Villach, follow the Gail River to Arnoldstein, where the ruins of the Benedictine monastery offer an interesting historical stop. Cross the border into Italy and arrive in the picturesque town of Tarvisio, surrounded by the Julian Alps and known for its lovely churches and lively market. Consider a detour to the magical Fusine Lakes before returning to Tarvisio. The ride ends in Valbruna, a quiet Alpine village offering expansive views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Don’t miss a visit to Monte Lussari, a 14th-century monastery village and former pilgrimage site perched high on the mountain.

Udine

Stage 7: Gemona del Friuli – Udine, 30 mi. 49 km (elevation 277 meters)
Cycle through charming villages and the expansive vineyards of the Friuli wine region. Stop at a local winery for a tasting. The route continues along quiet roads following the Torre River, guiding you toward Udine. Enter the city through its peaceful outskirts and finish at the picturesque Piazza della Libertà, the vibrant heart of Udine, surrounded by elegant Venetian palaces and the striking Loggia del Lionello.

Caorle

Stage 9: Latisana – Caorle, 38 mi. 61 km (elevation 238 meters)
Head toward the Adriatic Sea as you cycle across fertile plains to Portogruaro, a town full of medieval charm, Venetian palaces, and Gothic loggias. Follow the canals and admire the characteristic watermills before continuing along the Lemene River. Stop in the picturesque town of Concordia Sagittaria, known for its Roman excavations and 10th-century Romanesque cathedral. Pedal along quiet country roads toward the Caorle Lagoon, where iconic thatched-roof fishing huts dot the landscape. Arrive at the Adriatic in Caorle—a town loved by Ernest Hemingway—featuring brightly colored houses, narrow streets, cozy piazzas, and an eighteen-kilometer-long sandy beach.