The Drava Cycle Path for Families

The sun-drenched town of Lienz marks the beginning of the Drava Cycle Path tour for families. This charming town, often referred to as the Pearl of the Dolomites, is nestled at the foot of wooded mountain ridges and imposing mountain riges. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town wandering past colourful houses, quaint shops and numerous street cafés. If you have the time do visit the Hochstein mountain. Here you'll find a petting zoo, a forest playground, and even a climbing forest – it truly earns its title as an Erlebnisberg (adventure mountain). A ride on the Osttirodler – one of the longest summer toboggan runs in the Alps – is an absolute must.

Your day begins with a scenic train journey to Innichen, also known as San Candido in Italy, the starting point of the Drava Cycle Path. From there, the route follows the young Drava River, descending through the narrow Pustertal valley back to Lienz. Just beyond the border, you’ll find the Wichtelpark Sillian adventure park, located directly along the cycle path. Your children will be spoiled for choice with a wide range of play equipment to explore. For those with a love of water, a visit to the Garlitzenklamm Water Adventure Park is a must. Here, you can experience the raw power of nature while your children enjoy some fun at the water playground.

Today, the family-friendly tour of the Drava Cycle Path takes you through the picturesque Oberdrautal Valley, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning protected floodplain landscape, accessible only by bike. The route follows ancient Roman trade routes, offering both scenic beauty and historical intrigue. Just a few kilometres after Lienz, it is worth taking a detour to the Roman town of Aguntum and its informative museum. Continuing your journey, you’ll pass the Kärntner Tor (Carinthian Gate) and soon arrive at Oberdrauburg. The town is known for its charming historic town centre. A short diversion to the nature and herb village of Irschen, slightly off the main cycle path, offers a chance to explore the world of wild herbs. Continue on to the town of Dellach- a perfect spot for a break and a refereshing dip in the Drava River.

Today, your cycling adventure takes you from Berg or Greifenburg to Spittal, where you’ll be greeted by picturesque, traditional farms and the expansive meadows set against the stunning backdrop of the Dolomites. The Drava Cycle Path guides you effortlessly through the heart of nature, offering beautiful, well-maintained cycling paths. In Spittal, a visit to Porcia Castle is a must. This Renaissance masterpiece features a grand three-storey arcaded courtyard and a beautifully landscaped park. Just a short bike ride away, Lake Millstatt awaits. Hire a pedalo and savour the tranquillity of this idyllic lake, a perfect spot to unwind.

This stage of your cycle tour begins amidst the majestic Carinthian Alps, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding villages as you cycle along a scenic dyke. A visit to the Carantana Museum in Molzbichl is a highlight, where you can trace the footsteps of Carinthia's first inhabitants. The cycle path takes you across bridges and charming footbridges, leading you towards Villach. The route is a delightful journey through enchanting nature, past grazing cows, and numerous inviting resting spots, making it a joyful experience for the whole family. As you approach Villach, the valley widens, and the mountains gently fade into the distance. Villach, the second-largest city in Carinthia, awaits your arrival.

How you spend your day in the Villach vacation region is entirely up to you. You can embark on a scenic cycle tour around Lake Ossiach or take an excursion to the stunning turquoise-blue Lake Faak. Whichever you choose, the warm lakes promise a fantastic day of swimming and fun for the whole family. If you're heading to Lake Ossiach or seeking an interesting stop along your bike tour, a visit to the impressive Landskron Castle is highly recommended. The castle is home to an eagle arena, featuring thrilling flight shows, as well as a monkey mountain with around 170 Japanese macaques—experiences that are sure to captivate and delight all children.

After breakfast, your family’s tour along the Drava Cycle Path comes to a close. However, if you’re not quite ready to leave the beautiful Villach vacation region, we would be delighted to extend your stay with an additional night, allowing you to make the most of this stunning destination.