Between South Tyrol and East Tyrol stretches an area that is a veritable paradise for two-wheel pedal enthusiasts. This is the Pustertal valley, which gives those who want to travel through it extraordinary nature and villages characterized by fortifications and castles.
The Pustertal winds for about 100 km, along which there are nature parks, rivers, breathtaking views.
So here are two suggestions for biking to discover this area.
THE DRAVA CYCLE PATH
It is a jewel to be experienced fully and at a slow pace, so as not to miss anything that flows under the wheels and before the eyes.
Following the course of the Drava River
, you will pedal 48 km from Toblach to Lienz, crossing the Italian-Austrian border and riding on roads suitable even for travelers with children in tow.
In fact, the complete route of the Ciclabile stretches a full 366 km: it starts in the Pustertal valley and reaches Maribor, Slovenia. The route proposed here represents the initial part, always runs slightly downhill and is very well marked.
Localities traversed include Toblach-the “gateway to the Dolomites,” in the Sexten Dolomites Nature Park-and natural sites such as the Galicia Gorge, an impressive natural site from which paths and bridges provide extraordinary views of waterfalls. And then the little village of Heinfels with its castle and the Collegiate Church of San Candido, the most important Romanesque monument in the Tyrol and the Eastern Alps, with extraordinary works of art and an important fresco cycle.
The route ends in Lienz, the capital of East Tyrol and a well-known tourist destination. Routes to explore the Hohe Tauern National Park or the Assling Wildlife Park depart from here.
