DRAU-CYCLE PATH
ca. 360 km
Sillian:
ca. 1100 m above sealevel
Maribor: ca. 290 m above sealevel
Austrias warm and pleasant South!
The river Drau is Austrias most southernly river. The spring is situated only 10 km from the border in South Tyrol (Italy) between Toblach and Innichen.
Many cyclists start in Sillian,
because here the railwaystation is situated. From here the river heads
east to Lienz in Austria.
The dramatic panorama of the Lienzer Dolomits
and the nice descent on a separate cycle path without any traffic make
sure, that this first part of the Drau cycle trail passes effortlessly.
Shortly before the small town of Oberdrauburg
the border between East Tyrol and Carynthia in Austria
is crossed. Next interesting site is the city Spittal with the ancient
castle Portia.
Villach and some detours to the warm
Carynthian lakes add to the pleasures of this tour. Take your time
for bathing and relaxing.
The last towns in Austria, before the Drau crosses
the border to Slovenia, are Völkermarkt and Lavamünd.
In Slovenia the Drau cycle path is not so well
kept, therefore we recommend to cross via the "Radlpass"
(appr. 20 km after the border) near Radrie (Slovenia)
to Eibiswald in Austria. The Styrian Vineystreet
quite resembling the Tuscany invites you to enjoy great local wines. Follow
the Mur Rivercycle Path either to Graz
(airport) or to Bad Radkersburg thermal
resort.
The very well signposted Drauradweg follows either dedicated cycle paths
or small country roads with few traffic.
