Follow the tracks of the "Schafkäs-Express" – Ybbs Valley Cycle Path

If you are still looking for the right cycle route for a long weekend in Austria and don't want to break a sweat, then the Ybbstalradweg is just right for you. If the temperatures should rise on the way, you will find numerous bathing spots on the banks of the Ybbs where you can refresh yourself.

The well-developed cycle path leads from Ybbs on the Danube to Lunz am See and has a total length of almost 110 kilometers (68 miles), which I have divided into three pleasant stages with suitable accommodation for you.

With mostly flat and gentle ascents, the route is also ideal for a family trip. Thanks to the recently-completed cycle path following the former Schafkäs-Express railway line, racing cyclists will also be happy as the route is completely asphalted. Just be aware that you’ll share the path with other cyclists so keep your speed reasonable.

At the beginning, the route leads you through the rural region of the Mostviertel. Here, a short visit to a cider factory is of course a must. Afterwards, the path follows the Tbbs as it winds its way into the slightly-alpine region of the Iron Road. While high peaks tower up to the side of you, you can enjoy the panorama without much effort as you cycle leisurely along the river to Lunz am See. On the way there are plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat, as well as numerous resting places directly on the river. You can decide whether you prefer to pack a snack or enjoy the regional cuisine.

If you feel fit enough, you can combine the three sections described here into two somewhat longer stages. In this case, you will find suitable overnight accommodation halfway through the entire route in Waidhofen an der Ybbs. For families with children who also want to do the route in only two days, we recommend starting directly in Waidhofen an der Ybbs. Suitable overnight accommodations can be found in Opponitz or Hollenstein an der Ybbs. However, book your accommodation in advance.

If three days in the Ybbs valley are not enough for you, there are numerous possibilities to extend your adventure. From Waidhofen an der Ybbs, for example, the Kleine Ybbstalradweg leads to Ybbsitz, a detour that is particularly worthwhile if you are interested in the history of iron craftsmanship in this region.

As an alternative to the return journey from Lunz am See to Waidhofen an der Ybbs with the bike hitchhiker bus or the Ybbstal bike taxi, you can also take the Ötscherland bike route and cycle back towards the Danube via the Erlauftal. From Waidhofen an der Ybbs, you can take the train to Ybbs an der Donau. By the way: If you want to take it easy, you can also start directly in Lunz am See and cycle the route downstream.

It is worth to inform yourself about the current situation on the website of the local tourist office before you start your trip, especially since it can happen in winter that the cycle path is closed due to snow: mostviertel.at/ybbstalradweg